《Oops, I had a ONS With My Secret Ex-husband》


 Chapter 1 One-Night Stand on the Day of Divorce?

    <h4>Chapter 1: Chapter 1 One-Night Stand on the Day of Divorce?</h4>


    Civil Affairs Bureau, Ji Yu stepped out, holding her freshly issued divorce certificate.


    Thewyer behind her called out awkwardly, "Madam¡ªuh, no, Miss Ji, please wait a moment!"


    He stopped Ji Yu and pulled out a bank card from a folder.


    "...Miss Ji, this is what your husband said topensate you."


    Ji Yu raised an eyebrow but didn''t take it.


    Her ex-husband had been like this when they got married three years ago, and now he was like this again at their divorce¡ªtruly consistent from beginning to end.


    Unfortunately, Ji Yu didn''tck money. A man like this, who was as lifeless as a ghost, handled both marriage and divorce through hiswyer, never showed up, and solved problems by throwing money around¡ªsorry, she had no interest.


    Ji Yu waved her hand, smiled at thewyer, and said, "No need. Lawyer Zhang, you can return the card to President Gu. The stuff at home can be thrown away by the housekeeper too. I won''t be going back to pack luggage."


    Without a trace of sentimentality, Ji Yu ignored Lawyer Zhang''s calls from behind and left without looking back.


    After walking a distance, Ji Yu pulled out her phone to call her best friend, Feng Qinqin.


    "Hey? Qinqin, I''m free now. Let''s go out for drinks tonight¡ªmy treat!"


    That night, at Moon Bar in S City.


    Moon was one of the most prestigious upscale bars in S City, with VVIP private rooms that rival the luxury of five-star hotel suites.


    From the moment one stepped into the private room, there were KTV facilities, table games, a pool table, a cocktail bar counter, and even a bedroom with an exclusive ensuite bathroom.


    The bar only had two such VVIP private rooms, upying an entire floor, ensuring utmost privacy and luxury.


    Typically, reservations had to be made at least three months in advance, but tonight''s guests were special¡ªsome of them secured their roomsst-minute by paying extra, and all of them carried identities that couldn''t be trifled with.


    Ji Yu was the host of one of these private rooms.


    After her divorce, she had to regain her independence, which required her to pick up her previous work. Ji Yu was moderately famous in her industry, known under the alias "Ji Yu."


    "Wow, President Ji, it''s been three years¡ªhow long has it been since you used the name Ji Yu to invite me out for dinner?"


    Feng Qinqin was guided into the private room by a server and excitedly grabbed Ji Yu by the shoulders.


    "Here''s to celebrating my best friend''s return to single life! Honestly, I couldn''t tell if you''d married the Jade Emperor or Buddha! After you got married, you stayed home every day¡ªI barely saw you. Anyone who didn''t know might''ve thought you were abducted to northern Myanmar!"


    Ji Yu burst outughing: "That won''t happen anymore."


    Though it wasn''t to the extent of divinity like the Jade Emperor, her ex-husband''s identity was indeed extraordinary.


    When she married him, Ji Yu had tried not to tarnish the family''s reputation, avoiding too much public exposure. But now that she was divorced, she no longer had to worry about schemers using her as a pawn against the family.


    Ji Yu was happy to be carefree. She didn''t mind when Feng Qinqin invited two male escorts to join them.


    Feng Qinqin blinked and said in an ambiguous tone, "Yuyu, now that you''re single again, you can really let loose and have fun with me~"


    Ji Yu sighed helplessly: "You¡ªafter all this time, you''re still the same. Aren''t you afraid Cai Xun will get mad¡ª"


    "Hey, hey, hey! Don''t say his name!" Feng Qinqin hurriedly silenced Ji Yu with a drink.


    She signaled to the two male escorts, who each stood on either side of Ji Yu and toasted her.


    "Yuyu, tonight neither of us should think too much. Enjoy yourself¡ªthat''s the most important thing, okay?"


    Ji Yu nodded and allowed herself to get swept up in the atmosphere, drinking far more than she ordinarily would.


    Though she seemed indifferent on the surface, perhaps deep down Ji Yu still felt some bitterness about the marriage.


    After all, three prime years of her youth had been wasted¡ªhow much money had she missed out on earning?


    And the root cause? Wasn''t it the Ji family...


    "Yuyu, we''ll head out now. Will you be okay getting back on your own?"


    Ji Yu''s hazy thoughts were interrupted by Feng Qinqin. She looked up to see Feng Qinqin leaving with the two male escorts in tow.


    As an adult and her best friend, Ji Yu instantly understood what Qinqin nned to do.


    Ji Yu blushed, swaying as she stood: "Stop it, you two can stay here¡ªI''ll go!"


    Feng Qinqin, drunk by this point, refused: "No way. They say the best way to get over an old rtionship is to start a new one. Yuyu, you need to stay and let yourself have some fun. I''ve got my eyes on Bing¡ªwe''re gonna... hic¡ªleave now."


    As she spoke, she turned to the other escort: "I''ll leave Quan with you... no, he''s not handsome enough. Yuyu, for someone as gorgeous as you, even sleeping with an escort means choosing the headliner¡ª"


    "Wait, wait, wait! This one''s good!"


    Feng Qinqin scanned the hallway drunkenly, then suddenly squealed and dragged over a tall man.


    The man, dressed in a ck suit, looked indistinguishable from the male escorts at first nce.


    "Wow, your bar has such premium goods. Why didn''t the boss mention him when we were picking earlier? He''s perfect for Yuyu!"


    Feng Qinqin marveled as she forcibly pushed the man into the private room.


    Bing and Quan, the two escorts, exchanged shocked nces. They weren''t sure if they should point out that the man didn''t seem to be one of their colleagues.


    Inside the room, Ji Yu was startled by Feng Qinqin''s antics.


    "Honestly, Qinqin always gets so rowdy!"


    Ji Yu stepped forward to let the man out, but discovered the door was locked from the outside. She sighed.


    She took out her phone to call the bar manager: "Sorry, my friend is drunk and causing a scene. I''ll have someone let you out right away¡ª"


    Before she could finish, the man, who had been silent and lowering his head, suddenly reached out and pinned Ji Yu against the doorframe.


    "Mmph!"


    Ji Yu gasped, feeling the man''s heavy breathing and his scorching skin.


    "Wh-what''s going on with you?"


    Ji Yu instantly sobered up from fear. As she tried to get a better look at him, the man leaned in and devoured her lips.


    He bit her fiercely on the corner of her mouth, whispering darkly, "You asked for this."


    ...


    Like a tempestuous storm, waves crashing against the shore.


    The night passed; daylight arrived. Ji Yu woke up to the sound of an incessantly ringing phone.


    "Who the heck..."


    Ji Yu grumbled, frustrated. She''d been up until dawn being thoroughly ravaged, and hadn''t slept for more than a few hours. Her annoyance boiled over.


    She thought it was her phone ringing, reached out to grab it, and instead touched a man''s bare chest and well-defined abs.


    Ji Yu''s eyes immediately flew open, and fragments of the night''s memory flooded her mind.


    She had lost her mind¡ªshe''d actually had a one-night stand with a male escort!!


    Last night, drunk and disoriented, Ji Yu had been shoved into the room with this man by Feng Qinqin. And the man hadn''t seemed entirely normal either.


    It started with him kissing her, and as the kisses deepened, Ji Yu felt her body heat up irresistibly, eventually forgetting to resist.


    Ji Yu wasn''t someone who would sufferpromise. Realizing the man had an excellent physique, she let herself indulge and ended up rolling into bed with him in the VVIP suite.


    And now...


    Ji Yu closed her eyes, overwhelmed with regret for letting herself go.


    At that moment, the "male escort" woke up as well, irritably answering his ringing phone: "What is it?"


    Ji Yu had nned to sneak away, but reconsidered¡ªshe needed to leave a "tip" for his service. Taking out her wallet, she turned back to toss him the money, only for her gaze tond squarely on the man''s face.


    With just one nce, Ji Yu was left utterly speechless.


    Gu Qixiao???


    Her ex-husband!!!!!!

 Chapter 2: 500 for One Night, What a Loss!

    <h4>Chapter 2: Chapter 2: 500 for One Night, What a Loss!</h4>


    The man had sharp eyebrows tapering into his temples, his face sculpted as if chiseled.


    Despite the messy hair and kiss marks on his neck after a night of recklessness, none of it diminished his striking looks. On the contrary, it lent him a fatal allure, wholly different from the aloof dominance seen in financial news reports. Gone was the hard exterior of a man at the top; in its ce was a casual and softer demeanor.


    Ji Yu stood there with her mouth agape, utterly dumbfounded.


    How was Gu Qixiao here?


    Had she just slept with her ex-husband??


    Not having seen him once in the three years of their marriage, they somehow ended up tangled together after the divorce?!!


    Ji Yu found it utterly ludicrous. Trembling, she scrambled to pick up her clothes, intent on fleeing, but Gu Qixiao grabbed her.


    "Where are you going?"


    His cold, piercing gaze conveyed those four words as his hand mped around Ji Yu''s arm and his other held a phone.


    From the other end of the line came a woman''s voice. Ji Yu, standing close by, could clearly overhear their conversation.


    "Xiao, where are you?"


    Gu Qixiao replied tly, "Not by your side, disappointed?"


    Recallingst night''s anger, he hadn''t expected Song Xuan to drug him at the bar after indulging her whims.


    Song Xuan, stung by his words, spoke with a hint of a sob, "Xiao, no, it''s just that I like you so much. Besides, my brother..."


    Gu Qixiao knew she was about to bring up Song Tingdong again and impatiently ended the call.


    "Noted. I''lle find youter."


    After hanging up, Gu Qixiao turned to Ji Yu, his eyes filled with scrutiny.


    "I''ll take responsibility forst night. Whatever you want, just say it."


    Having been drugged and schemed against by Song Xuan, Gu Qixiao had originally intended to leave, but had inexplicably been pulled into another private room.


    Though he had maintained some sobriety at first, the moment Ji Yu approached him, the faint fragrance from her neck ignited a heat within him that clouded his rationality.


    Everything felt too coincidental¡ªso coincidental that Gu Qixiao suspected this woman was another pawn in Song Xuan''s borate trap,ced with more aphrodisiacs.


    But seeing the bloodstains on the sheets, he realized she was a virgin, and no matter what, he had topensate her.


    Ji Yu mostly guessed what was running through his mind and curled her lips into a smile.


    Gu Qixiao... hadn''t even recognized her.


    It made sense. They hadn''t met even once during their marriage, so of course he wouldn''t know what his ex-wife looked like.


    As for Ji Yu, she had only evere to know her husband''s face through the news headlines glorifying the illustrious name of Gu Qixiao.


    "Sir, that''s really unnecessary. We''re all adults¡ªone-night stands are perfectly normal."


    Ji Yu didn''t want to exin further, shaking off Gu Qixiao''s grip as she climbed out of bed.


    From the purposely audible phone call earlier and his unusually fervent behaviorst night, Ji Yu figured out that Gu Qixiao had been drugged.


    Having ruled the business world for years, Gu Qixiao had a sharp sense of caution. He was likely wary that she might know the woman on the phone.


    Unfortunately, Ji Yu didn''t know her. But now Gu Qixiao had unwittingly revealed why her husband had nevere home during their marriage. Turns out, he''d been keeping a mistress on the side!


    Ji Yu scoffed inwardly, congratting herself on filing for divorce¡ªas if she''d spare even a nce at such a scumbag.


    Gu Qixiao keenly picked up on the fact that the woman in front of him didn''t seem to like him, a reaction he couldn''t quite ce.


    "...Perfectly normal?"


    If he hadn''t known she''d been a virgin, he might have thought herposed demeanor meant she was a seasoned KTV hostess.


    After all, Ji Yu''s face alone was enough to captivate souls, especially those liquid eyes of hers, brimming with confident, haughty radiance.


    "Getting drunk and finding a handsome guy to unwind¡ªthat''s something my girlfriends do all the time."


    Ji Yu smiled faintly and pulled cash out of her wallet, cing it on the bedside table.


    How many chances did one have in life to tease the richest man in City S? Ji Yu wasn''t about to let this opportunity slip away.


    Her one sentence made Gu Qixiao''s face darken, so much so that he didn''t even notice her actions.


    Excellent¡ªsuch audacious behavior meant she couldn''t possibly be one of Song Xuan''s pawns.


    Gu Qixiao didn''t lose his temper, coughing lightly to mask the fact that this had also been his first time.


    "In that case, make sure you take a contraceptive pill. Don''t cause any trouble."


    "Rest assured, I won''t be seeing you again, sir."


    Ji Yu deliberately emphasized her phrasing, nting subtle hints that Gu Qixiao couldn''t quite decipher, though he sensed something amiss.


    Gu Qixiao''s gaze was heavy as it lingered on Ji Yu.


    "That''s for the best."


    Parting on poor terms, Ji Yu left and immediately dialed her assistant.


    "President Ji! You finally reached out!"


    The news of Ji Yu''s return had already swept through the industry, with many eagerly waiting for the renowned "master of aesthetics" to make hereback.


    "Tian, arrange clients for me. I''ll be heading to thepany now."


    "Understood!"


    The news that Ji Yu would visit the "Renewal Cosmetic and Reconstructive Clinic" that afternoon simultaneously reached Gu Qixiao.


    "President Gu, Ji Yu herself is finally making her return¡ªshould you bring Miss Song..."


    "Hmm, make an appointment."


    As Gu Qixiao dressed to leave, his eyesnded on the stack of cash Ji Yu had left on the nightstand.


    Two, three... Five hundred?


    Was spending a night with him worth just five hundred yuan?


    Gu Qixiao chuckled softly and pocketed the money.


    Hopefully, the woman would keep her word and never show up in front of him again.


    That afternoon, as soon as Ji Yu arrived at the clinic, she was met with the frantic shouts of a woman.


    "Who''s your boss? I want to see a shareholder! Get your person in charge out here!"


    Ji Yu''s brows knitted together. "I''m the person in charge. What do you want?"


    The woman, her face wrapped in bandages, nced at Ji Yu, a flicker of astonishment in her eyes quickly overtaken by fury.


    "So it''s you? Is your shady business robbing me of my money? I only had a birthmark on my face and came to your clinic for a restoration procedure. Now look¡ªmy entire face is ruined!"


    Agitated, the woman grabbed the cor of Ji Yu''s coat. "It''s you, isn''t it? You couldn''t stand seeing other women prettier than you, so you deliberately destroyed my face, you b*tch! You did it on purpose!"


    Frowning at the baseless insults, Ji Yu turned to the surrounding staff and demanded, "What on earth is going on?"


    "P-President Ji... This is Miss Li, a former client of ours. She wanted to remove her congenital birthmark. Wepleted the procedure sessfully, but about two months into the recovery period, she suddenly experienced facial disfigurement, which led her toe back to us."


    "Sudden disfigurement?" Ji Yu coldly directed at the woman, "Remove the bandages. Let me take a look."


    Three years ago, when Ji Yu married Gu Qixiao, she had passed on her foundational techniques to the clinic before departing. Those skills were sufficient to meet 90% of client needs.


    Patients undergoing cosmetic surgery at her clinic could trust her expertise to create results so seamless that their beauty appeared natural, devoid of any signs of artificial enhancement or difort.


    As for disfigurement? Ji Yu was certain no such w existed in their work.


    However, once they entered the examination room and the woman peeled away the bandages from her face, Ji Yu caught a whiff of putrid rancidity. Her left cheek, originally marred only by a birthmark, was nowpletely ulcerated.


    Devastated, the woman shouted, "Isn''t Ji Yu''s technique supposed to rival the gods? I spent so much money and waited so long for an appointment at your clinic. Now you''ve ruined me! You wretch, how do you n topensate me?"


    One nce was all Ji Yu needed to understand the cause.


    Her expression cooled as her eyelids lifted slightly. "Miss Li, this doesn''t seem to be our clinic''s fault."

 Chapter 3 Losing the Vest +1

    <h4>Chapter 3: Chapter 3 Losing the Vest +1</h4>


    "Not at fault? How is that even possible!"


    The woman still wanted to stir up trouble. At this moment, Ji Yu pulled out a document and pointed to a line of text: "Miss Li, the agreement you signed before the stic surgery spelled out the rules, didn''t it? Since you chose our hospital, any follow-up cosmetic or reconstruction services can only be done at ''Renewal.'' You are prohibited from going to any other beauty institution for a secondary procedure."


    The woman''s previously arrogant demeanor instantly vanished upon hearing this.


    "I-I know, so what?"


    Ji Yu smirked, her eyes shing coldly: "Theplications with your wound resulted from a secondary revision surgery done at another cosmetic institution. The contract clearly states that any consequences from such actions will be borne by the patient."


    "How can you be so sure I had a revision done somewhere else?"


    The woman tried to deny it, but Ji Yuughed lightly and raised her phone, dialing 110.


    "I have all the contractual and monitoring records. If you refuse to admit it, the police can easily check your recent transaction history to uncover the truth."


    The woman panicked and reached out to stop Ji Yu''s actions: "I, I, I''m sorry, Dr. Ji, President Ji. Please just let this go once. I saw that it looked fine post-surgery, so I only went for a facial slimming injection. I didn''t expect the consequences to be so severe. Can you please help me fix it again? Otherwise, my face is going to be ruined!"


    Ji Yu pried the woman''s hand off, looking impatient: "Sorry, ''Renewal'' has always had strict rules. We don''t take on clients who disregard medical advice. My staff reminded you countless times before surgery that you''re absolutely prohibited from seeking secondary procedures elsewhere, even for routine injections or maintenance treatments. The conflicts in drug interactions could cause unforeseeableplications. Since you don''t trust us, we won''t be amodating you again."


    With that, Ji Yu stood up to leave. The woman grabbed her sleeve and shrieked, "No! I''ll pay you, any amount you want! You have to restore my face!"


    Ji Yu ignored her and turned to shrug off the woman''s hands again. This time, the woman had prepared in advance, grabbing a pair of scissors from the desk and raising them high.


    "You bitch! You want me disfigured? I''ll ruin your face first!"


    Whoosh!


    The sharp de cut through the air with a piercing sound, heading straight for Ji Yu''s face. Just as the scissors were about to reach her, a man suddenly appeared and seized the woman''s arm.


    "President Ji, patients like this with mental problems should be left to us to deal with."


    The man, dressed impably in a suit and sses, appeared gentle and refined, but he acted with remarkable efficiency.


    He worked with a few bodyguards to subdue the woman and quickly escorted her out of the room.


    Inside the room, only another man remained. Ji Yu heard him speak, "Are you ''Ji Yu''? I''ve booked an appointment for the afternoon."


    Ji Yu turned around, and when she saw the man''s face, she was stunned.


    "Gu¡ª *cough cough*!"


    Ji Yu choked on her own saliva, almost blurting out Gu Qixiao''s identity.


    What''s he doing here? Didn''t he say this morning that they''d never cross paths again for the rest of their lives? It''s only been a few hours!


    Ji Yu felt dizzy, unwilling to face the reality.


    Truly cursed fate!


    Equally shocked was Gu Qixiao. He hadn''t expected the woman fromst night to turn out to be *that* "Ji Yu."


    Gu Qixiao frowned. He hadn''t paid much attention to Ji Yu before, but now he was brimming with suspicion.


    "So, you''re the so-called ''miracle hand of beauty,'' Ji Yu?"


    Ji Yu sighed. Realizing there was no way to avoid it, she made no attempt to hide the truth¡ªafter all, "Ji Yu" was just an alias. As long as Gu Qixiao didn''t discover she was his ex-wife, that was fine.


    "Yes, that''s me. You''ve made an appointment at our hospital? I seem to recall Tian assigning me a woman on the VIP client list."


    Gu Qixiao remained silent for a moment, then asked someone to close the door before handing Ji Yu a business card.


    "I''m Gu Qixiao. I booked this on behalf of a friend. She was in a fire, and her face was severely burned."


    Along with the business card, he also handed her a photo of Song Xuan. Ji Yu could see that the woman''s burns were extensive. Besides her intact facial features, her entire face was covered with disfiguring scars.


    In three years of marriage, Ji Yu had never known such a woman existed.


    She looked at Gu Qixiao''s indifferent, handsome face and scoffed.


    Oh, so this is his mistress''s real face.


    Even in this state, Gu Qixiao hadn''t abandoned her. He''d spent three years searching for "Ji Yu" just for her. It seemed the richest man in S City was truly a devoted man!


    Ji Yu casually nodded, her reaction nonchnt even after Gu Qixiao revealed his identity: "Got it. I can save her. Send her to the hospital."


    Gu Qixiao pondered for a moment: "Could Dr. Ji perform the procedure at home? I''ll prepare all the equipment you need, and as for medical fees, just name your price. Her identity is sensitive, and I''d like to ensure confidentiality."


    "Sorry, no can do." Ji Yu rejected him outright. "President Gu, you should''ve discovered my personality while investigating me. I have absolute authority over my patients. If she wants cosmetic surgery, she''ll have toe to Renewal."


    Ji Yu felt slightly irked. To her, it sounded like Gu Qixiao''s concern was focused on protecting that woman''s reputation.


    They were already divorced¡ªthere wouldn''t be any reports branding him as someone who "cheated with a mistress." So why all the secrecy?


    For someone as powerful as Gu Qixiao, this was his first time encountering such a defiant and unyielding attitude. This woman truly wasn''t afraid of him in the slightest.


    Gu Qixiao squinted his eyes, his aura bing colder: "Dr. Ji, can''t you make an exception?"


    "Nope."


    Sitting on her desk, Ji Yu crossed her legs and opened the file for her next client: "If President Gu is unwilling, you can only look for another cosmetic surgery hospital. Renewal can''t amodate someone as important as you."


    "President Gu, if there''s nothing else, please leave. My next patient has also waited three years for an appointment."


    Ji Yu''s icy tone left Gu Qixiao stifled with no outlet for his frustration.


    The tall, handsome man stood at the doorway, silent for a long time, pinching the bridge of his nose in exasperation.


    "Fine. I''ll go pick her up now."


    Gu Qixiao ordered his assistant to send him to the apartment where Song Xuan was staying and ryed Ji Yu''s requirements to her.


    Song Xuan flew into a rage, smashing dishes left and right: "Who does that Ji Yu think she is! Such a huge ego! Not even afraid of the Gu family''s president¡ªdoes she think we wouldn''t dare crush her?!"


    Hearing her toss around threats of death, Gu Qixiao frowned.


    From the moment he took responsibility for Song Xuan, he learned she suffered from severe bipr disorder and schizophrenia. As long as she didn''t cross any major lines, he didn''t bother holding her ountable for her actions.


    Including the aphrodisiac fromst night.


    Song Xuan had been disfigured in a fire as a child, which left her a recluse who avoided the outside world and strangers.


    If not for hearing about Gu Qixiao''s divorce yesterday¡ªwhich put her in a jubnt mood¡ªshe wouldn''t have insisted on dragging him to Moon for drinks.


    But what Gu Qixiao hadn''t expected was that Song Xuan would actually dare to drug him, attempting to turn their predicament into a done deal.


    Gu Qixiao had promised her brother that he''d take care of her for life, but he had never been fond of her romantically. Even now, after his divorce, the idea of remarrying didn''t cross his mind.

 Chapter 4 Too Impulsive

    <h4>Chapter 4: Chapter 4 Too Impulsive</h4>


    Upon this thought, Gu Qixiao spoke coldly, "Song Xuan, Ji Yu is the only person in the world who can permanently repair therge scars on your body. Stop ying childish games ande with me to the hospital."


    Song Xuan felt fear when she saw Gu Qixiao angry. She knew that what happenedst night was her acting impulsively, and it would push this man away. But wasn''t Gu Qixiao supposed to be hers all along?


    She slept with her man¡ªwasn''t that only natural?


    "Xiao, don''t be mad. I''ll change my clothes right now, and then we''ll go to the hospital."


    Being able to restore her looks naturally made Song Xuan happy. Over the past few years, her mental state had worsened, all because she couldn''t bear looking at her repugnant face in the mirror.


    And she heard that Gu Qixiao''s wife was as stunning as a goddess...


    After changing her clothes, Song Xuan clung excitedly to Gu Qixiao''s arm. "Xiao, once my face is restored, will you marry me then? Once I look pretty again, I won''t tarnish the Gu family''s reputation anymore. You will marry me, right?"


    Gu Qixiao pushed her hand away and replied with measured, deliberate words, "Song Xuan, I have said this many times¡ªI will not marry you."


    "But you divorced her for me!" Song Xuan shrieked.


    "That was her decision. During our three years of marriage, I failed to fulfill my responsibilities as her husband. She had every right to leave me."


    Gu Qixiao''s gaze grew cold.


    Three years ago, Gu Qixiao''s father had arranged a marriage for him, iming he''d chosen a suitable girl in the country to be his daughter-inw.


    By nature, Gu Qixiao was always aloof, and although in his twenties, he was wholly devoted to his work and uninterested in romance. When he heard his father had selected a woman named "Ji Yu," he agreed without hesitation.


    He had intended to return to the country to register their marriage, but during that time, he encountered a terrorist attack. If not for Song Tingdong, apany employee who risked his life to shield him from a bullet, Gu Qixiao would have died.


    To repay the debt, Gu Qixiao investigated and discovered that the Song family had dwindled to only one surviving member¡ªSong Tingdong''s sister, Song Xuan.


    He stayed behind to take care of her, and unknowingly, three years slipped by. Gu Qixiao fully understood how neglectful and irresponsible he had been as a husband, so when Ji Yu filed for divorce, he agreed without hesitation.


    Perhaps this was his fate¡ªto be unable to fall in love like ordinary people. But Song Xuan couldn''tprehend this.


    Sheshed out with unbridled fury, "I don''t care! Now that you''re divorced, why can''t you be with me? My brother died saving you. You owe my family a life. You have no choice but to marry me!"


    Sobbing, Song Xuan cried out again, "Xiao, I only have you left. My family is dead; I only have you! Is it because you find me ugly? I''ll soon be beautiful again. I love you so much¡ªhow can you not like me?"


    Gu Qixiao knew the woman had suffered another episode. Impatient, he restrained her iling fists and administered a sedative.


    He then summoned his assistant, "Chen Yu, take Miss Song to Renew stic Surgery Hospital."


    Forcing Song Xuan into the car, Gu Qixiao issued another warning. "Song Xuan, I owe you a debt, which is why I haven''t pressed charges for drugging me or for obstructing me from going back to meet Ji Yu these past three years. I will take care of you for life, but don''t even think about marriage. I will never love you."


    With the sedative taking effect, Song Xuan''s limbs were temporarily weak. Lying in the back seat of the car, her expression grew sinister and venomous as she muttered to herself.


    "It''s all because of this face. You don''t like me because I''m ugly. But you will. Gu Qixiao, you''ll fall in love with me..."


    That evening, at Renew stic Surgery Hospital, Ji Yu waited for Gu Qixiao for quite some time.


    "President Gu, I thought you weren''t nning on being treated anymore. I was about to contact my next client."


    Ji Yu had intended to joke with Gu Qixiao but noticed his foul mood and blinked curiously.


    At this moment, Song Xuan caught sight of Ji Yu''s appearance, and her face turned pale.


    Ji Yu... she was unbelievably beautiful?!


    Ji Yu''s beauty was wless. Born an orphan, she grew up in the orphanage until her adoptive parents¡ªthe Ji family¡ªbrought her home. They hadn''t intended to raise her seriously, but no one expected Ji Yu to grow into such a breathtakingly gorgeous woman.


    Her petite, sharp face, well-defined nose, pouty lips, and a curvy 168 cm figure reminiscent of a neighboring country''s girl-group idols...


    What stood out most were her almond-shaped eyes, which managed to appear both innocent and alluring. Though elders typically disapproved of statuesque,manding women like Ji Yu, her youthful, endearing face made it impossible for them not to soften toward her.


    Song Xuan''s chest heaved uncontrobly as jealousy threatened to consume her, though Ji Yu remained unaware.


    She continued drafting Song Xuan''s diagnosis on paper.


    "I''ve reviewed all your records, including photos of what you looked like before your scars¡ªback when you were twelve. Based on bone structure growth, I''ve reconstructed your appearance at age twenty-four. I''ll perform the surgery to restore your skin and help you reim the face that should belong to you."


    Ji Yu smiled warmly while presenting Song Xuan her illustration.


    The case file held a lifelike portrait, resembling an ID photo that depicted Song Xuan with uncanny realism.


    Ji Yu was exceptionally gifted in art. It was her skill in drawing that inspired her to open a cosmetic restoration clinic where she could repair human faces much like archaeologists who restore ancient relics.


    Ji Yu prided herself on tailoring every surgery to entuate the client''s unique features rather than altering their natural essence. She enhanced their strengths, removed imperfections, and maximized the appeal of every individual face.


    If these clients sought generic procedures at mass-market stic surgery centers¡ªlike jaw slimming, eyelid incisions, or nose augmentation¡ªJi Yu would consider it a desecration of her "craft."


    This was why Ji Yu opposed patients undergoing secondary modifications from other clinics.


    However, the revision Ji Yu designed clearly didn''t satisfy Song Xuan.


    The face on the sketch could only be described as delicate. Butpared to a beauty like Ji Yu, how could Song Xuan possibly ept looking so unremarkable?


    Gu Qixiao didn''t seem to care and prepared to sign the surgical consent form. Just then, Song Xuan interrupted:


    "No, I don''t want this face."


    "I want¡ª"


    "Your face."

 Chapter 5 Goodbye then

    <h4>Chapter 5: Chapter 5 Goodbye then</h4>


    Ji Yu''s expression instantly turned dark.


    "Miss Song, that joke isn''t funny."


    She looked at Song Xuan and Gu Qixiao¡ªone crazy, one cold. She must be out of her mind to have agreed to see them.


    "Miss Song, I spent the entire afternoon thinking about your repair surgery n. If you... forget it."


    Ji Yu saw that Song Xuan genuinely had no interest in the artwork. She didn''t bother persuading her any further.


    Over the years, she had met all kinds of people. Song Xuan''s hunger and greed were crystal clear in her eyes. If it weren''t for Gu Qixiao''s involvement, there was no way she would even consider having a repair surgery.


    To Song Xuan, physical beauty and appearance were paramount. She wouldn''t cherish the things meant for her. Even if Ji Yu sessfullypleted the surgery, she wouldn''t be thankful. Instead, she might end up like that Miss Li before, harboring resentment against Ji Yu and imagining it was done intentionally.


    Why would Ji Yu invite trouble upon herself?


    She closed the medical record book and raised her chin, "I''m not doing the surgery anymore. You both can leave."


    Song Xuan hadn''t expected Ji Yu''s attitude to be so casual. She was furious inside but put on a pitiful front, crying: "Doctor Ji, why the sudden anger? I was just wondering¡ªaren''t you a cosmetic repair institution? Why can''t I choose the face I want? That previous look was too ugly! Spending so much money on the surgery, and you''re just brushing it off like this?"


    "That look isn''t ugly. It''s your most authentic self. I only handle repair surgeries. If you want full cosmetic alterations, you can go elsewhere for follow-up treatment. But Miss Song, if you''re chasing someone else''s beauty, we at Chongxin cannot cater to that. You are wee to visit any cosmetic surgery clinic for your influencer face¡ªthat''s a simple procedure."


    Ji Yu chuckled coldly, almost rolling her eyes.


    Song Xuan was indignant: "But I want you to do it! Xiao, the Gu family spent three whole years trying to book Doctor Ji, spending hundreds of thousands in reservation fees. Why should I have to follow someone else''s advice and settle for a face I''m dissatisfied with? I don''t want that face¡ªthat''s not me. I want you to give me a face as beautiful as yours!"


    She clung to Gu Qixiao''s arm, throwing a tantrum. Gu Qixiao frowned, momentarily unsure how to respond.


    Outer beauty wasn''t important to him. He didn''t care what Song Xuan wanted to look like. But...


    His gaze unintentionally fell on Ji Yu. The more Ji Yu listened, the angrier she became, and she decisively stood up to leave.


    "The Gu family? So what? I don''t take patients who are troublemakers. Goodbye to both of you."


    Ji Yu said this, shoved her hands into the pockets of herb coat, and walked off briskly.


    Halfway out, her wrist was grabbed. Gu Qixiao''s expression was helpless.


    "Miss Ji... please calm down."


    She wasn''t surprised he chased after her, but seeing Gu Qixiao''s attitude frustrated Ji Yu even more.


    The mighty CEO of the Gu family repeatedly lowering himself before her only proved how important Song Xuan was to him!


    What a shame, though¡ªhe really had awful taste. Was this the woman he fancied enough to cheat during their marriage?


    Scumbag!


    Ji Yu cursed silently in her heart, and any lingering impression she had of Gu Qixiao¡ªhis ability or supposed romantic devotion¡ªwas utterly wiped out.


    "President Gu, let go. Clearly, Chongxin is too insignificant to wee a Buddha like you."


    "No, it has to be you."


    Gu Qixiao was desperate for Song Xuan''s face to recover so he could marry her off as soon as possible; yet, no matter what, he couldn''t separate himself from Ji Yu.


    "I agree to the n you proposed. Start the surgery now."


    "Oh? Your ''friend'' seems far from satisfied with my artwork. Will she even willingly step into the operating room?"


    Ji Yu deliberately emphasized the word "friend," her face full of sarcasm.


    Gu Qixiao thought about administering a sedative and forcing her into the operating room if needed, but on the surface, he said coolly: "...I''ll talk to her. Doctor Ji, prepare for the surgery."


    Ji Yu mulled it over and reluctantly agreed in the end.


    "Consider this your one favor from me. We''re even."


    Back when she agreed to marry Gu Qixiao, it had been more about escaping the Ji family. By sheer chance, she met Uncle Gu, who helped her set up herpany and achieve financial independence.


    Given all that, she did owe the Gu family one. Saving Gu Qixiao''s lover today would count as repaying that debt.


    Gu Qixiao didn''t grasp the meaning behind Ji Yu''s words. His eyes flickered as he promised, "Doctor Ji, rest assured. As agreed earlier, you can name the surgery fee yourself. All necessary medical measures and equipment will be provided as a donation to Chongxin."


    No one would refuse money. Hearing this, Ji Yu''s mood improved slightly; she nodded with satisfaction.


    "Alright. I''ll go prepare for surgery. You can take Miss Song to the operating room on the third floor."


    Ji Yu didn''t know how Gu Qixiao managed to convince Song Xuan, but momentster, she saw Song Xuan in a hospital gown, sitting quietly in the preparation room.


    Ji Yu was busy counting surgical tools and medication. Song Xuan, not one to sit still, whispered: "Doctor Ji, I''m a bit nervous. Can we talk?"


    Ji Yu ignored her. Song Xuan spoke to herself instead: "Doctor Ji is so pretty. Do you have a boyfriend? If you do, I bet he''s exceptional."


    "What type of guys does Doctor Ji like? Or dislike? Could you tell me?"


    Ji Yu remained silent. Holding onto her pant leg, Song Xuan continued, "For example, Xiao¡ªwhat do you think of him?"


    When Song Xuan finally voiced her real question, Ji Yu mentally rolled her eyes.


    "Rx. I don''t like your Xiao. I didn''t like him before, I don''t like him now, and I won''t like him in the future."


    As soon as Ji Yu finished speaking, the man who had just entered the room froze.


    Gu Qixiao stared at Ji Yu, his aura suddenly a bit colder.


    Though his expression remained calm, he politely asked, "It seems Doctor Ji has quite a dislike for me. Could you share what exactly displeases you?"


    Ji Yu yawned: "President Gu, don''t be so tense. I just said I don''t like you. You''re not my type; that doesn''t mean I dislike you."


    "Oh?" Gu Qixiao curved his lips into a shallow smile, one so chilling it sent shivers down her spine.


    "I thought Doctor Ji might appreciate my looks, considering..."


    Gu Qixiao''s words were purposely ambiguous, leading her to overthink.


    Ji Yu was immediately reminded of how she had drunkenly admired Gu Qixiao''s physique and featuresst night, even biting him several times in a moment of uninhibited flirtation.


    "Ahem!"


    Ji Yu felt flustered and irritable, shooing Gu Qixiao away: "President Gu, stop joking. I, Ji Yu, am just a mediocre stic surgeon. How could I dare covet the almighty President Gu? The surgery is about to start. Please wait in the corridor outside."


    Saying this, she made to push Gu Qixiao out. Meanwhile, Song Xuan, unhappy with their inexplicable chemistry, rushed from the hospital bed and hugged him first.


    "Xiao, it''s enough that you''re my ideal type!"


    Song Xuan positioned herself between Ji Yu and Gu Qixiao, her head buried in his chest, standing like a wall.


    "Xiao, once my face is restored, we can finally be together! Your ex-wife didn''t appreciate you or cherish you, but I will. I know Xiao is the best man in the world!"


    Gu Qixiao remained silent, gently nudging Song Xuan away: "You... get back to the bed."


    He was ustomed to Song Xuan''s erratic derations. He didn''t bother refuting her this time.


    But this was the first time Ji Yu had heard herself being described through a mistress''s mouth, and it almost made herugh aloud in anger.


    Oh? She had suffered three years of cold violence in their marriage, yet she was the one being criticized for not cherishing him?


    What exactly about Gu Qixiao was worth cherishing?!


    Ji Yu''s fiery temper almost exploded. What karmic debt was she paying in this life to watch her ex-husband and his mistress act lovey-dovey before her while she worked tirelessly to fix the mistress''s face?


    Ji Yu tossed down the surgical scalpel: "President Gu and Miss Song''s rtionship is truly touching. But let me remind you¡ªmarriage implicatesws and morality. You two can be as affectionate as you please, but don''t blind the public."


    She smirked at Gu Qixiao. "President Gu, divorced at such a young age? ording to reports, research shows that 80% of couples divorce due to infidelity. Since President Gu is so outstanding, I''m sure you''d never partake in anything like that¡ªbut next time you marry, do be cautious. I fear some people may still fail to appreciate you."


    After delivering her parting shots, Ji Yu left without looking back, leaving both Gu Qixiao and Song Xuan stunned.


    Wait... was the surgery still happening?


    Song Xuan was puzzled: "Xiao, why is Doctor Ji angry again?"


    Gu Qixiao didn''t know either, but he couldn''t shake off the unsettling feeling Ji Yu''s speech had triggered.


    "I''ll go bring her back."


    Gu Qixiao exerted more force to push Song Xuan away, chasing after Ji Yu without another word.

 Chapter 6: Irrefutable

    <h4>Chapter 6: Chapter 6: Irrefutable</h4>


    "Miss Ji, wait, I didn''t, it''s not like that." Gu Qixiao grabbed Ji Yu''s arm and hurriedly exined.


    But as soon as he spoke, Gu Qixiao was stunned as well. Why did he feel the need to exin? But if he didn''t, he had a nagging sense that he might lose something very important.


    The exnation from Gu Qixiao only elicited a coldugh from the depths of Ji Yu''s heart.


    "Mr. Gu, this is your personal matter and has nothing to do with me. You don''t need to exin anything to me." She then looked at the arm Gu Qixiao was holding, signaling him with her eyes to let go.


    What a trashy ex-husband from a past century, divorcing for a mistress, allowing her to badmouth me in my face yet again, and now trying to exin himself? What''s the point of that?


    Gu Qixiao awkwardly released his grip, but the feeling of her slender arm in his hand, even through the white coat, left an impression of delicate skin.


    "Then why did Miss Ji get angry and leave just now?" Gu Qixiao still felt that Ji Yu''s anger was connected to him.


    Ji Yu put on a professional fake smile and said, "Mr. Gu, I think you''ve misunderstood. I wasn''t angry, I simply left to prepare for the examination!"


    Looking at the fa?ade of a forced smile on the person before him, Gu Qixiao felt an inexplicable awkwardness.


    Although the feeling was strange, Gu Qixiao found himself unable to refute her words, yet pondered why he even needed to.


    A scumbag will always be a scumbag, always wanting more than he already has.


    Ji Yu looked at Gu Qixiao, internally mocking him angrily before walking away.


    No more time wasted on Gu Qixiao, as after this surgery, they wouldn''t see each other again.


    Watching Ji Yu leave, Gu Qixiao also turned and returned to the ward.


    Everything that happened in the hallway earlier was all seen by Song Xuan from the ward, but she couldn''t hear their conversation through the door.


    Even the scene alone was enough to drive Song Xuan crazy.


    That bitch, how dare she try to seduce Xiao? No wonder she refused to give me her face.


    I must have her face, absolutely! With that face, Xiao will be mine, and no one will be able to take him away.


    Song Xuan was secretly plotting how to get Ji Yu''s face.


    Seeing Gu Qixiao turn back into the ward, Song Xuan quicklyy back down on the bed.


    When Gu Qixiao entered the room, she feigned a weak expression, but with her unrepaired face, it was anything but gentle, only unspeakably grotesque.


    For a moment, even Gu Qixiao was scared, though he had been taking care of Song Xuan for three years, he asionally still got startled by her.


    "Xiao, what did Doctor Ji say just now? Is she refusing to operate on me?"


    As soon as Gu Qixiao stood by the bed, Song Xuan threw herself into his arms.


    Feeling Song Xuan''s clinginess, Gu Qixiao only felt a headache.


    Impatiently, he pulled Song Xuan away and stood a bit further to prevent her from reaching over again.


    "No, she just went to prepare for the surgery. You don''t have to worry; your face will definitely be fixed."


    Hearing Gu Qixiao''s words, Song Xuan wasn''t particrly happy because it wasn''t the face she wanted, but for now, she had to settle for it.


    Once she gets Ji Yu''s face, she will destroy Ji Yu''s face; a beautiful face can only belong to her.


    In the ward, the two were lost in their own thoughts.


    Meanwhile, as Ji Yu prepared for the examination, she suddenly sneezed: "Achoo! Who''s talking about me behind my back? It must be that mistress again!" Ji Yu joked.


    Despite her grumbling, Ji Yu''s hands continued preparing without pause.


    Although she hated the mistress persona, in her role as a doctor, everyone was equal.


    Once all preparations were done, Ji Yu had the nurse begin taking Song Xuan for her examination.


    The process was borate andplex.


    With many patients at the hospital, and Song Xuan''s constant stalling, she often had to wait endlessly for her turn, despite wanting to use Gu Qixiao''s influence to cut in line. But since Ji Yu established the hospital, she''d set a rule: everyone must follow hospital protocol, no matter who they are, so Song Xuan had no choice but to wait her turn.


    Havingpleted all the examinations, Song Xuan had cursed Ji Yu countless times in the ward.


    At times like these, nobody, including Gu Qixiao, wanted to enter the ward to deal with Song Xuan.


    Thus, Song Xuan could only rage uselessly.


    These incidents, of course, were unknown to Ji Yu, who was in her office reviewing the examination data.


    Even if Ji Yu knew, she wouldn''t care; in the hospital, everyone is equal, no exceptions, a strict rule she set.


    When Ji Yu appeared in the ward with the examination report, Song Xuan had already quieted down.


    "Miss Song, your examination report is out. All indicators are good, and we can schedule the surgery soon."


    "Doctor Ji, when can you arrange the earliest surgery date?"


    After hearing the examination results, Song Xuan urgently asked Ji Yu to schedule the surgery,


    "Miss Song, the earliest avable surgery slot is tomorrow. You''ll need to start fasting from this evening."


    "I want the surgery tonight, arrange it immediately." Not hearing her desired result made Song Xuan''s demeanor change instantly.


    "Miss Song, fasting is essential before surgery. You don''t meet this requirement now, so surgery won''t be possible tonight." Despite Song Xuan''s haughty tone, which annoyed Ji Yu, she still attempted to cate her first.


    However, Ji Yu''s response only made the silent yet vexed Song Xuan more unreasonable.


    "I don''t care about those things, you must be afraid that once my face is fixed, you can''t seduce Xiao, so you refuse to do my surgery quickly."


    Suddenly, Song Xuan began shouting without reason, startling the nurses apanying Ji Yu, including Ji Yu herself.


    Watching Song Xuan go berserk before her, Ji Yu couldn''t help but ponder.


    So, this was the type of lunatic the great Gu family heir preferred¡ªhis taste truly is out of the ordinary.


    It''s fortunate the divorce happened early, Ji Yu secretly felt grateful.


    Meanwhile, Gu Qixiao, one of the involved parties, was unaware that within the brief time he left the hospital to handle business at thepany, his reputation in Ji Yu''s mind plummeted to an all-time low.


    But now, no matter how crazily Song Xuan behaved, Ji Yu didn''t indulge her; she instructed the nurses clearly and simply left.


    Watching Ji Yu''s departing figure enraged Song Xuan to the point she smashed everything within the ward that was breakable.


    Outside the ward, the nurses nced back at the chaos inside and patted their chests, relieved for closing the door just in time.


    "Ji Yu, just you wait. I will make sure you pay back a thousandfold for the humiliation I suffered today."


    At this moment, with her burnt face, Song Xuan looked like a vengeful ghost returning from hell, sending chills down one''s spine.

 Chapter 7 All-Out Effort

    <h4>Chapter 7: Chapter 7 All-Out Effort</h4>


    The frustrating events of today left Ji Yu feeling uneasy.


    After returning home from work, sitting on the sofa and going over the day''s events felt ridiculously terrifying.


    Yesterday during the day, she had just divorced her husband of three years whom she hadn''t seen, and by the evening, ended up having a one-night stand with her ex-husband.


    She had sworn she wouldn''t see him again, only for her ex-husband to show up with his mistress a few hourster, forcing her to listen to the mistress badmouthing her to her face.


    It was absurd to the point that absurdity itself seemed mundane.


    After a busy day, Ji Yu remembered that she hadn''t checked her WeChat messages, which were probably overloaded by now.


    Ji Yu hurriedly took out her phone from the bag, and sure enough, as soon as it was turned on, 99+ messages popped up on the screen.


    Feng Qinqin: How was the battlest night?


    Isn''t the publicist I found for you especially handsome?


    How do you feel about him?


    Where are you?


    Hurry up and reply!


    Still sleeping?


    Faced with the message bombardment, Ji Yu held her forehead in exasperation but indulgently read all the messages.


    How should she exin to her friend that the publicist fromst night was actually the husband she had never met during three years of marriage!


    While considering how to reply to her friend''s messages, a video call came in on her phone.


    Ji Yu picked it up and, indeed, speaking of Cao Cao, Cao Cao arrives.


    The call connected: "Darling, how did it feelst night? Wasn''t it great?" Feng Qinqin said, making a satisfied expression.


    This expression amused Ji Yu, whose bad mood from the whole day turned to sunshine.


    Feng Qinqin looked at Ji Yu''s furrowed brow in disbelief and asked, "What''s wrong, darling? Why do you seem unhappy? Could it be that the publicist didn''t perform well? Such a waste of a good face."


    "It shouldn''t be. I looked around the men and found the best one for you! I couldn''t have been wrong!"


    "Stop, stop, stop, stop your wild thoughts!"


    Facing Feng Qinqin''s increasingly outrageousments, Ji Yu quickly interrupted her.


    If she didn''t, who knows what more outrageous things she might say.


    "Alright, alright, I''m done teasing you. So, what happened to you today?" Feng Qinqin asked, seeing Ji Yu''s rxed brows, and dropped her frivolous demeanor.


    Faced with her friend''s inquiry, Ji Yu recounted everything that happened fromst night to today.


    For this sudden gossip, Feng Qinqin was so shocked that her mouth almost wouldn''t close.


    "What did you say? The person I found for youst night was your ex-husband whom you just divorced in the morning?"


    "And he came to you at noon with his mistress for a consultation?"


    This kind of twist was beyond what Feng Qinqin could have ever imagined.


    "Tsk tsk tsk, honey, you could write a novel about this. It''s so absurd that you actually encountered it."


    "Stop joking; I couldn''t wait to stay away from it!" Ji Yu instantly rejected her friend''s banter without a second thought.


    After all, who would want such a mess, divorcing the ex and rolling back together shortly after?


    "Alright, didn''t I say that because you seemed unhappy? And you encountered your ex parading his mistress in front of you, so I wasforting you!"


    Ji Yu understood her friend''s good intentions and didn''t say much more; they chatted about other things and then hung up.


    Early the next day, Gu Qixiao was already in the ward, waiting for Song Xuan''s surgery to begin.


    "Brother Xiao, after today, my face will finally be healed, and we can finally be together." Song Xuan smiled shyly, imagining the beautiful scenes of their future together, and threw herself into Gu Qixiao''s arms.


    Gu Qixiao had grown numb to Song Xuan''s habit of throwing herself into his arms over the past three years.


    After all, if he refused, Song Xuan would act crazy and constantly remind him that Song Tingdong died trying to save him.


    When Ji Yu walked into the ward to exin the final pre-op precautions, this was the scene she saw.


    Seeing Ji Yu enter, Gu Qixiao instinctively wanted to push Song Xuan away.


    Song Xuan was pushed away by Gu Qixiao, looking at Ji Yu with iparable resentment in her eyes.


    But it quickly passed. After yesterday''smotion, Song Xuan knew that stirring up trouble now was pointless, as she still needed Ji Yu for her face to recover.


    But just you wait, Ji Yu, once my face is healed, I will definitely scar your face.


    So you can no longer seduce my Brother Xiao; he can only be mine.


    For a moment, the atmosphere in the ward became awkward.


    Ji Yu finally broke the weird atmosphere, "Sorry to disturb you two."


    Upon hearing this, Gu Qixiao wanted to exin himself, but Song Xuan spoke first. "You knew you were disturbing yet barged in without knocking; you did it on purpose, didn''t you?"


    Song Xuan''sment made Gu Qixiao furrow his brow in displeasure, but he didn''t refute her.


    After contact with Song Xuan yesterday, Ji Yu had a bit of understanding of Song Xuan''s character, guessing it was likely because Gu Qixiao spoiled her, making her so brazen.


    So Ji Yu didn''t say much more; after giving her instructions, she left the ward to prepare.


    Watching Ji Yu leave, Gu Qixiao wanted to chase after her, but Song Xuan wouldn''t let go, so Mr. Xiao had no choice but to give up.


    As the surgery time approached, Song Xuan still clung to Gu Qixiao''s hand.


    "Brother Xiao, if after the surgery my face isn''t healed, you must not let that Ji off!"


    Upon hearing this, Ji Yu found it amusing.


    Threatening the surgeon responsible for your operation before surgery, should she call her naive or pitifully foolish?


    "Your face will definitely heal this time." Gu Qixiao couldn''t help but interrupt Song Xuan, after investing so much time and effort, yet here she was, trying to intimidate the painstakingly invited doctor on the verge of surgery.


    Song Xuan didn''t sense the impatience in Gu Qixiao''s words; she only felt that he cared about her at this moment.


    Standing aside, Ji Yu was so embarrassed she was almost rolling her eyes skyward.


    The most speechless thing in the world might be listening to your ex-husband exchange tender words with his mistress at this moment.


    "Doctor Ji, Song Xuan is in your hands now!"


    Suddenly, Gu Qixiao solemnly entrusted Song Xuan to Ji Yu, almost causing Ji Yu''s eyes to roll back fully, grateful for her quick reflexes.


    But hearing her ex-husband being so considerate of his mistress, she couldn''t help but feel a bit ufortable.


    Xiao has me in his heart; he''ll definitely be mine eventually.


    The three of them each had different thoughts, and no one truly understood Gu Qixiao''s intentions;ter on, he would often be brought up by Ji Yu and med for this incident, but that''s another story.


    "As a doctor with professional ethics, I will absolutely do my best."

 Chapter 8 She Got Married

    <h4>Chapter 8: Chapter 8 She Got Married</h4>


    After the surgery, Song Xuan''s face had recovered quite well.


    "Xiao, my face is finally healed. We can finally go on dates openly now!" Song Xuan looked at her reflection in the mirror as her features gradually returned to normal. Although it wasn''t the face she had hoped for, at least it no longer resembled the terrifying, disfigured look after the burn.


    However, Gu Qixiao, who was standing by the window, remained silent in response to Song Xuan''s words. He simply stood there, lost in thought.


    Seeing hisck of reaction, Song Xuan clenched her teeth, the resentment in her eyes growing stronger.


    But no matter how bitter she felt, she could only suppress it for now.


    "Xiao, what are you looking at that''s got you so focused?" Song Xuan walked over to Gu Qixiao''s side and followed his gaze.


    In the hospital garden below, Ji Yu was chatting with a sunny and handsome young man.


    "Xiao, isn''t that Doctor Ji? Is that man next to her her boyfriend? They look so perfect together!"


    The moment Gu Qixiao heard this, his expression darkened instantly.


    "Whether they''re a couple or not has nothing to do with you. What are you bbering about?"


    Gu Qixiao impatiently cut off Song Xuan''s words, turned around, and sat down on the sofa.


    His abrupt reaction made Song Xuan''s heart sink, and she shifted her disdainful gaze away from the scene below.


    "I was just making an observation! After all, Doctor Ji is so beautiful¡ªshe must have lots of admirers, right?"


    "I wonder how Doctor Ji chooses from all these admirers. Does she switch boyfriends often? But with her looks, even if she cheated, those men would probably still forgive her!"


    Reaching this point, Song Xuan''s tone softened, and she even seemed a little mncholy.


    "I''m nothing like Doctor Ji when ites to attracting men. With my face the way it was before, only you, Xiao, stayed by my side through thick and thin."


    Gu Qixiao found Song Xuan''s mncholy unusual today but didn''t think too much about it.


    Looking at Song Xuan''s softened demeanor and the tears at the corners of her eyes, he thought about the past three years of her erratic behavior. Perhaps her insecurities after the burns had caused her to act like that, and now that her face had healed, her personality seemed to have reverted too.


    With this thought, Gu Qixiao uncharacteristically softened his tone tofort Song Xuan.


    When Ji Yu came to the room to check on Song Xuan''s recovery, she was greeted by the sight of Gu Qixiao softly coaxing Song Xuan.


    For a moment, Ji Yu was unsure whether to enter or retreat.


    But standing there and watching her ex-husband tenderlyforting another woman was not something Ji Yu could stomach. Rolling her eyes, she left the room.


    The two people inside had no idea someone had just been at the door.


    After soothing Song Xuan''s emotions, Gu Qixiao said, "I''ll go find a doctor to check on your recovery and see how soon you can be discharged."


    The atmosphere was just right, and Song Xuan didn''t want Gu Qixiao to leave so quickly.


    However, staying in the hospital meant possibly running into Ji Yu, and with Ji Yu''s face, it was hard not to worry about Gu Qixiao being tempted. So, she nodded, letting him go call Ji Yu over instead.


    Not far from the room, Ji Yu had just been stopped by a patient.


    "Doctor Ji, are you busy right now?" The young man stood tall at 6''2, with a clean and gentle appearance that resembled a harmless "puppy lover" type.


    Looking at him, Ji Yu, who had seen countless attractive men and women¡ªmany crafted by her own hands¡ªstill couldn''t help but admire him. A genuinely fresh and clean young man like this was rare.


    Pulling her gaze back, Ji Yu replied, "I''m free. What''s the matter?"


    Although Ji Yu admired the young man''s looks, her own beauty was wless¡ªone could even call it divine artistry.


    Encouraged by her response, the young man suddenly mustered the courage to look Ji Yu directly in the eye.


    "Doctor Ji, I like you. Can we date?" As soon as he finished, his face turned bright red, but he stubbornly kept his gaze on her, refusing to look away.


    Ji Yu was slightly taken aback by the confession, but she quickly regained herposure.


    Smiling, she replied, "Sorry, but no."


    The young man''s expression instantly became awkward, but he was still unwilling to give up and asked why.


    "I''ve been married for three years already."


    The young man had guessed many possible answers but hadn''t considered this one. Since he hadn''t seen her wearing a wedding ring, he had overlooked the possibility.


    Disheartened, the young man eventually left. Watching his retreating figure, Ji Yu also turned and walked away.


    This was nothing more than a minor interlude and nothing of significance.


    But for Gu Qixiao, who stood at a nearby corner, it was as if someone had thrown a massive stone into the calm waters of his heart.


    So, she''s married. Yetst time, she and I still...


    Recalling the things Song Xuan had said in the hospital room earlier, her indifferent tone and casual demeanor after that incident, Gu Qixiao realized she hadn''t been pretending¡ªshe really was that careless.


    With this conclusion, any lingering feelings Gu Qixiao had for Ji Yu instantly dissipated.


    A woman this indiscreet, engaging in one-night stands after marriage and being so tant about her infidelity, was detestable.


    Ji Yu had no idea about the image Gu Qixiao had constructed of her in his mind¡ªthat of a woman who casually cheated on her husband. But seeing Gu Qixiao''s hostile attitude toward her now, Ji Yu''s originally decent mood soured. What was his problem?


    Feeling annoyed, Ji Yu wasn''t about to tolerate Gu Qixiao''s temper.


    Whatever attitude Gu Qixiao gave Ji Yu, she matched it in return.


    Throughout the process of examining Song Xuan and handling her discharge paperwork, the two acted as if they had encountered something utterly repugnant, their expressions grim.


    Even Song Xuan, who usually took every opportunity to add fuel to the fire, remained unusually quiet during this interaction. After all, this oue suited her perfectly.


    As long as Gu Qixiao''s attention wasn''t on other women, he was hers. She didn''t care about their attitudes toward each other.


    While waiting for the assistant to finalize the discharge procedures, Ji Yu coincidentally passed by their area during her rounds.


    Seeing Ji Yu approach, Gu Qixiao hurriedly wrapped everything up and instructed someone to pack Song Xuan''s belongings before leading her out of the hospital without looking back.


    As they walked past Ji Yu, his attitude was one of arrogance and disdain.


    This scene left Ji Yu fuming. Was he insane? If something was wrong with him, he should get treatment instead of throwing a tantrum. Why act as if she''d wronged him?


    Completely speechless, Ji Yu thought to herself, How can someone like this exist? Thank goodness I divorced him; who knows what else I''d have had to deal with!

 Chapter 9 Did the Ex-Wife Have an Affair?

    <h4>Chapter 9: Chapter 9 Did the Ex-Wife Have an Affair?</h4>


    During the days that followed, Ji Yu lived quitefortably.


    The hospital cases weren''t particrly severe, so Ji Yu rarely needed to step in herself.


    Although when she first returned to Beauty Artisan, many patients hade specifically for Ji Yu''s reputation as a master of contouring, everyone understood the rules of Beauty Artisan well.


    Still, there were always some who considered themselves exceptions and attempted to break the rules. These people inevitably ended up leaving in disappointment.


    Aside from such individuals unwilling to cooperate with the treatment ns, the other patients were very cooperative.


    In the three years of her marriage, Ji Yu wasn''t able to pursue the career she loved, leading her to draw another big, ring "X" in her mind against Gu Qixiao.


    After the divorce, when Ji Yu returned to the work she had a passion for, she almost seemed to radiate light.


    That was precisely Feng Qinqin''s impression when she spotted Ji Yu the moment she stepped into the caf¨¦: "Ah! Babe, you look gorgeous now."


    Feng Qinqin rushed forward and enveloped Ji Yu in a bear hug. Ji Yu almost dropped the coffee she was holding. In this moment, the scene shifted to Ji Yu lovingly supporting Feng Qinqin while stabilizing the coffee in her hand and carefully cing it back on the table to prevent it from spilling.


    A momentter, Ji Yu pulled Feng Qinqin out of her arms. "Qinqin, enough now! We''re in public here! You wouldn''t want people to stare at us like we''re circus monkeys, would you?"


    Hearing this, Feng Qinqin, who had been reluctant to let go, quickly released her grip.


    She immediately smoothed her clothes and checked the reactions of those around her. Fortunately, thankfully, no one seemed to be paying attention to their corner.


    Feng Qinqin sat down, pouted, andined, "No one''s looking! You''re so stunning now¡ªwhat''s wrong if I hug you? If they''re staring, it''s only out of jealousy!"


    Ji Yu couldn''t help butugh at her words, simply indulging Feng Qinqin''s yful antics.


    "Why are you here today? Is the hospital not busy?" Feng Qinqin dialed back her teasing.


    "I missed you. Besides, whether I''m at the hospital or not doesn''t make much difference. I love my job, but I''m not a workaholic." Ji Yu passed Feng Qinqin thette she had ordered for her.


    Ji Yu''s sweet talk made Feng Qinqin immensely pleased, puffing her chest with pride.


    "How have you beentely? Has he figured out who you are yet?"


    Feng Qinqin recalled the absurd stunt she pulled for Ji Yust time, but no matter how ridiculous her actions were, it couldn''t be worse than Gu Qixiao not recognizing his wife throughout their three-year marriage.


    Ji Yu said nothing, just took a sip of coffee and nodded in silent acknowledgment.


    "Gu Qixiao''s really too much. No matter what, you were his wife for three years! It''s bad enough that he never bothered to meet you during the marriage, but now he''s brazenly running around with his mistress. If I were his wife, I''d cheat on him too. Let''s see whose face would be ashamed then," Feng Qinqin said indignantly.


    Feng Qinqin thought about Ji Yu''s three lonely years, waiting alone in an empty house, while Gu Qixiao stayed devoted to a mistress who had been disfigured and cared for her tirelessly for three years.


    If he liked the mistress so much, why did he agree to marry Ji Yu in the first ce? The more she thought about it, the angrier she became.


    Cheating? Could it be that the woman who married me divorced me because she cheated on me?


    Gu Qixiao, coincidentally meeting with a friend at the same caf¨¦, had just walked in. Before he could sit down, he overheard Feng Qinqin''s earlier remarks.


    Coupled with Ji Yu''s recent mention of their divorce, it was hard for Gu Qixiao not to assume that his unseen wife had divorced him after being unfaithful.


    Already holding a grudge against Ji Yu over the misunderstanding from before, Gu Qixiao now felt further resentment toward her and Feng Qinqin, along with his ex-wife, who had allegedly cheated and divorced him without even showing her face. He detested them all.


    Checking the time and realizing his appointment was nearing, Gu Qixiao sped up his pace to reach the private lounge upstairs.


    Inside the Moon private lounge upstairs sat a figure. Tall and slender, immactely dressed, with rimless gold sses perched on his face. His graceful fingers supported his chin, a faint smile on his lips as he gazed at Ji Yu downstairs, who was chatting andughing with Feng Qinqin.


    The spot Ji Yu and herpanions upied was by the window, where the afternoon sunlight poured through, illuminating Ji Yu. Bathed in warm sunlight, her beauty stood out radiantly, resembling a wless pearl or jade.


    The lounge door swung open from outside, interrupting the moment. Turning around, the man noticed Gu Qixiao entering.


    "You''re here. Sit down; I''ve already ordered ck coffee for you."


    "Mm. Whatever." Gu Qixiao, still irritated by what he had just overheard, replied indifferently.


    The man across from him wasn''t bothered by Gu Qixiao''s attitude. Having known Gu Qixiao for over twenty years, he was well aware of his usual demeanor. If Gu Qixiao ever acted polite, it would feel almost supernatural.


    Looking at the friend in front of him, dressed like a devilishly charming rogue, Gu Qixiao struggled to describe his own conflicted thoughts.


    Wu Bei, a rising star and newly crowned Best Actor in the entertainment industry, was also one of Gu Qixiao''s closest buddies. Yet instead of managing his family''s wealth, Wu Bei insisted on pursuing acting.


    He justified it by saying he wanted to rely on his own talent to make his mark in the world while he was young, and only after gaining recognition would he settle down to inherit his family''s business.


    Among Gu Qixiao''s circle of friends, Wu Bei was the one most familiar with Gu Qixiao''s mysterious wife. After all, when the situation unfolded, Wu Bei was the first to assist Gu Qixiao and stabilize Mr. Gu.


    Otherwise, given that Gu Qixiao had married without meeting his new bride and then stayed abroad for three years, Mr. Gu would never have agreed to such an outrageous arrangement.


    Among the older generation, the only people Mr. Gu fully trusted in their circle were Ji Yuanzhou from the Ji family and Wu Bei.


    "Why did you call me here?" Wu Bei asked offhandedly, sipping his coffee and getting straight to the point.


    Gu Qixiao adjusted his posture, his expression growing serious. "I''ve been away from the country for a while. You probably have ess to all the resources avable within the circle these past few years, right?"


    Wu Bei gave him a knowing look. "I''ve alreadypiled everything and sent it to your inbox. Is this why you called me out?"


    "Mm. Do you know the people downstairs at that table?" Gu Qixiao, having gotten the information he wanted, shifted his gaze toward Ji Yu and herpanion.


    "Hmm...? Who?" Wu Bei wasn''t sure whom Gu Qixiao was referring to.


    Could it be that, after being back in the country for so long, he still hadn''t met his wife?


    Gu Qixiao impatiently gestured toward their table. "The person sitting on the right at the table downstairs."


    Wu Bei nced at the direction Gu Qixiao was pointing and replied, "Oh, that''s Feng Qinqin, the Feng family''s heiress, and a partner in your family''s business dealings."

 Chapter 10 Termination of Cooperation

    <h4>Chapter 10: Chapter 10 Termination of Cooperation</h4>


    "The Feng family, huh? Understood."


    Gu Qixiao replied indifferently, his tone t and unenthusiastic, as if he hadn''t just asked about someone himself.


    Although they''ve been friends for years, Wu Bei still couldn''t always figure out what was on Mr. Xiao''s mind.


    After all, his aloof and solitary demeanor was infamous within their social circle; his focus was solely on work, leaving no room for anything else.


    For someone like him to voluntarily ask about someone this time, Wu Bei thought it might mean he was finally opening up¡ªperhaps curious about his wife''s close friend.


    Upstairs, the atmosphere was tense and enigmatic, while downstairs it was bright and lively¡ªa stark contrast.


    Time seemed to pass quickly. Ji Yu and Feng Qinqin chatted for hours in the caf¨¦. True to the saying, time flies when you''re with someone you like.


    As it grewte, Ji Yu and Feng Qinqin parted ways and headed home.


    Ji Yu returned to her apartment and received a call from Ji Yuanzhou just as she was unlocking the door.


    "Hello, brother, what''s up?"


    Ji Yu answered the call while entering her apartment.


    On the other end, Ji Yuanzhou''s low and maic voice came through the receiver, "What, I can''t call you unless I need something?"


    "No, of course not. I was just asking! If you want to call me, then call me anytime you want¡ªyou''re my brother after all."


    Ji Yu''s yful tone sessfully made Ji Yuanzhouugh.


    "You cheeky little thing. Come home for dinner this weekend. Mom and Dad haven''t seen you in ages. Even after your marriage, you should make the effort to visit more often, okay?"


    "Alright, I got it. I promise I''lle home obediently this weekend."


    With Ji Yu''s soft and agreeable response, Ji Yuanzhou reluctantly ended the call.


    Years ago, the Ji family matched orphan Ji Yu''s marrow as a donor for Ji Yuanzhou, who required a transnt. The family then adopted her. Without the Ji family and Ji Yuanzhou, Ji Yu¡ªa former orphan¡ªwouldn''t have had ess to such quality education or be the renowned makeup artist she is today. Her gratitude toward the Ji family ran deep.


    Of course, without Ji Yuanzhou''s persistent plea to his parents back then, the Ji family might not have adopted Ji Yu. She felt a special sense of gratitude toward Ji Yuanzhou as her elder brother.


    To repay the Ji family''s kindness, Ji Yu had agreed to the arranged marriage with the Gu family¡ªnot a terrible decision considering the long-standing rtionship between the two families.


    Little did she expect that in three years of marriage, she''d never once actually see her husband. Living like a widow for those years¡ªthough, to be fair, she found the independence quite liberating.


    The divorce wasn''t just because Gu Qixiao hadn''t shown up in three years. It was because she didn''t want to spend her life tethered to a man who only knew how to throw money at issues without ever showing up to resolve them in person.


    Still, the matter of exining the divorce to the Ji family lingered. The two families were so closely connected, and both the Ji family and Mr. Gu had always treated Ji Yu well.


    But what''s done is done¡ªthere''s no going back. Whatever happens next, she figured, she''d deal with it when ites.


    Having resolved her thoughts, Ji Yu freshened up, yed on her phone, then prepared for sleep.


    While Ji Yu''s life followed a simple, peaceful routine, Gu Qixiao''s world was filled with chaos and excitement.


    The reason for Ji Yu''s decision to divorce him seemed to stir a rare ripple of emotion deep within Gu Qixiao, breaking through his typically unaffected demeanor.


    Tonight, he had gone to a wee-back party thrown by his social circle. Feeling out of sorts, he''d decided to have a few drinks.


    "Mr. Xiao, this party is all about you. Yet why are you drinking alone? Go keep himpany properly!"


    Gu Qixiao sat alone on the central sofa, nursing his drink. One of the guests saw this and quickly arranged for an alluring woman to approach him.


    The chosen woman didn''t immediately walk over. Instead, she observed Gu Qixiao carefully, only making her move once she didn''t sense rejection from him. She took a seat next to him cautiously.


    People who knew Gu Qixiao at all were well aware of his temper. If anyone dared sit beside him without his consent, they''d inevitably face consequences.


    No matter how harshly Gu Qixiao treated others, they would ultimately tter and amodate him carefully. After all, with his pedigree¡ªfrom an elite family¡ªhe was born into privilege with a silver spoon.


    Anyone with sense wouldn''t dare be petty about an insult from Gu Qixiao. Even a minor favor from him could mean a massive reward in their eyes.


    "Mr. Xiao, drinking alone isn''t great. Let me join you," the woman said gingerly, holding her ss as she toasted him.


    But Gu Qixiao didn''t even spare her a nce. He put down his ss, stood up, and left the room, leaving behind a crowd with mixed expressions.


    The guests, used to his unpredictable behavior, quickly resumed their lively interaction as if nothing had happened.


    Back in his car, Gu Qixiao instructed his driver, "Take me to Lake Vi," before closing his eyes to rest.


    Lake Vi was selected as their marital home when the marriage was arranged. Ji Yu had lived there for three years.


    Ironically, it was only after their divorce that Gu Qixiao set foot into the vi.


    Walking into the vi, he noticed its cozy decor. Everything¡ªfrom the warm-toned furniture to the framed artworks, window curtains, and flowers in the vases¡ªspoke of a delicate and meticulously cared-for space. Ji Yu preferred peace and solitude, leaving no maid to reside there. A maid would onlye by during the day to tidy up; Ji Yu handled everything else herself.


    So, when Gu Qixiao entered the vi, it was enveloped in silence. The warmth exuded from the furnishings¡ªthe paintings, the curtains, the flowers¡ªall revealed the traces of someone who had nurtured every detail.


    Such a style of decoration was unfamiliar to Gu Qixiao. The Gu family''s homes always had cold tones, not just in decor but in atmosphere and rtionships as well.


    Gu Qixiao''s parents divorced when he was young. Afterward, Mrs. Gu moved abroad, while Mr. Gu, a businessman, kept himself busy with no time for his son.


    Gu Qixiao grew up alone, cared for by the housekeepers. No one ever went out of their way to design and decorate the surroundings lovingly.


    Yet, as warm as this vi might feel now, all it reminded Gu Qixiao of was how his wife had left him. These cozy touches would soon belong to another family, another home.


    The more he thought about it, the more irritated he became. Lost in the whirlwind of his thoughts, he picked up his phone and made a call.


    As soon as the call connected, hemanded, "Terminate the partnership with the Feng family tomorrow. Find anotherpany to work with."


    His assistant immediately agreed without question, and Gu Qixiao ended the call abruptly.


    He walked into the master bedroom, tossed his phone onto the bed, and entered the bathroom, where the sound of running water soon filled the space.


    On the other end, his assistant nced at the time on his phone¡ª3 a.m.¡ªand groaned about the sudden order to sever ties with the Feng family. What was the reason?


    The life of a corporate worker wasn''t easy; his assistant grabbed his head in frustration but resigned himself to his fate. He decided to keep sleeping for now. If he had to suffer, it could wait until tomorrow. Rest was the priority at the moment.

 Chapter 11 Car Accident

    <h4>Chapter 11: Chapter 11 Car ident</h4>


    Early the next morning, the assistant got to work handling the matter of terminating the contract with the Feng family. Thepany had been cooperating with the Feng family for years, and ending the contract abruptly without thorough preparation would result in significant financial losses.


    Despite the assistant''s report detailing the profitability and ramifications of breaking ties, Gu Qixiao remained firm in his decision to terminate the cooperation with the Feng family.


    The assistant refrained from arguing further, simply responded with an "Understood," and left the office.


    Gu Qixiao then recalled that Wu Bei hadpiled information on the industry over the past few years, including details about some emerging enterprises. Among them, there were bound to be potential suppliers suitable to rece the Feng family.


    He immediately opened his email and began browsing. Sure enough, there was a supplier offering simr products to the Feng family¡ªa newly emerging enterprise that had only gained prominence in recent years.


    Gu Qixiao promptly forwarded the details of thispany to the assistant, instructing him to conduct an investigation before finalizing any cooperation.


    Assistant Li, ever the exemry professional, efficiently resolved the cooperation termination within a single day.


    He also thoroughly investigated the new potential partner that Gu Qixiao had proposed and managed to negotiate a contract that was a third cheaper than the price the Feng family previously offered.


    While everything on this end was being seamlessly resolved, joy on one side was matched by despair on the other.


    Mr. Feng was caught off guard by the abrupt cancetion from the Gu family. He couldn''tprehend why, after years of stable coboration, their partnership would be terminated so suddenly.


    Initially, Mr. Feng maintained hisposure after being informed of the termination. However, he soon realized that this was only the beginning.


    When Feng Qinqin returned home that day, she sensed that the atmosphere in the house was different from usual, and there was a noticeable trace of worry on her father''s face.


    She asked what was wrong, but Mr. Feng brushed it off casually, saying it was just minor work issues.


    This response didn''t alleviate Feng Qinqin''s concern. She knew her father''s temperament well¡ªhe never brought work-rted emotions home.


    If he did bring worry home, it meant the issue had a substantial impact on thepany.


    Rather than question him further, Feng Qinqin returned to her room and covertly asked thepany manager about the situation.


    Upon learning that Mr. Feng was troubled because the Gu family had terminated their partnership, she became even more concerned. Though the Feng family could not rival the prominence of the Gu family, their legacy in Capital City spanned several generations.


    The partnership had been established by their elder generations, so to end such a long-standing cooperation without any clear reason was baffling.


    It was easy to deduce that this was Gu Qixiao''s doing, but Feng Qinqin barely knew him¡ªnot beyond brief encounters at banquets or hearing others talk about him.


    She didn''t know where to start in attempting to help thepany. The more she thought about it, the more frustrated she felt, so she instinctively sought out Ji Yu to confide in.


    When Ji Yu heard about the Gu family''s termination of their cooperation with the Feng family, she was stunned, but quickly asked, "Do you know who the Gu family''s new partner is?"


    "I don''t. My father refuses to discuss it with me. I only noticed something was off and asked thepany manager to find out."


    "If the Gu family''s new partner isn''t finalized, or they''re keeping it under wraps, either scenario is bad news for your family," Ji Yu analyzed.


    Hearing Ji Yu''s assessment, Feng Qinqin felt darkness cloud her vision.


    Just then, Mrs. Feng''s voice echoed through the house, prompting Feng Qinqin to hastily bid farewell to Ji Yu and hang up the phone.


    Ji Yu stared nkly at her phone. Could it be that Gu Qixiao terminated the cooperation with Qinqin''s family because of her?


    Logically, it shouldn''t be the case, but if it was, it would be overly petty. If there''s an issue, direct it at me¡ªwhy involve innocent people?


    She decided to rify the matter directly. Ji Yu considered calling Gu Qixiao to arrange a meeting.


    But after scanning her contact list thoroughly, she realized she no longer had Gu Qixiao''s number. She had only ever had his assistant''s contact, but after their divorce, she deleted it, assuming she''d never need it again.


    Left with no alternatives, Ji Yu decided to ask Mr. Gu to help her arrange a meeting with Gu Qixiao.


    During their marriage, Mr. Gu had treated Ji Yu exceptionally well. After all, she was the daughter-inw he had personally chosen for his son.


    However, his son had been such a disappointment, not returning even once in three years of marriage. Now, hearing Ji Yu ask him to arrange a meeting with his son left him puzzled, but heplied.


    After finalizing the time, Mr. Gu continued to remind Ji Yu to take care of her health. "If that foolish boy ever makes you angry again, juste to me¡ªI''ll teach him a lesson for you."


    Mr. Gu''s words warmed Ji Yu''s heart, but she hadn''t yet told him about her divorce from Gu Qixiao.


    Once he found out that the divorce was initiated by her, how would Mr. Gu perceive her?


    She decided to deal with thatter. For now, she just needed to meet Gu Qixiao and talk things through.


    "I understand, Dad. You take care of yourself as well¡ªdon''t overwork," Ji Yu replied,forting Mr. Gu.


    Her soft and gentle tone made Mr. Gu even happier. The two chatted briefly before ending the call.


    A few dayster, at 10:30 in the morning, Ji Yu arrived early at the cafe where she and Gu Qixiao had agreed to meet. Incidentally, it was the same cafe where she had chatted with Feng Qinqin earlier.


    This time, since they were discussing business matters, Ji Yu didn''t choose her usual window seat but opted for a private room instead.


    Sitting inside, Ji Yu wasn''t anxious since she had arrived early. She quietly waited for Gu Qixiao to show up.


    On the other side, Gu Qixiao sat in his car, preparing to head to the cafe at his father''s insistence.


    "Whatever the matter is, why can''t it be discussed at home? Why do we have to meet at a cafe? The old man is being ridiculous," he thought.


    Leaning back in his seat, Gu Qixiao rubbed the corner of his eyes before instructing the driver to set off.


    Halfway through the journey, Song Xuan''s call came in.


    Seeing her name appear, Gu Qixiao felt a headacheing on. If he didn''t answer, Song Xuan would keep calling until he did, so for the sake of convenience, he reluctantly picked up.


    "What''s wrong?" Gu Qixiao sounded slightly impatient, but the next second, he instructed the driver to turn the car around and head to Song Xuan''s location.


    Song Xuan had said on the phone, "Brother Xiao, where are you right now? I just got into a car ident. Can youe over and help me?"


    Although Gu Qixiao wasn''t eager to see Song Xuan, upon hearing about her car ident, he immediately had the driver turn around.


    Upon arrival, he saw Song Xuan''s car crashed into a streemp. She was sitting on the roadside, appearing deeply shaken.


    A crowd had gathered to watch, with some even taking photos and videos.


    Feeling exasperated, Gu Qixiao got out of the car, brought the dazed Song Xuan aboard, and left the driver to deal with the ident.


    "Are you okay?" Gu Qixiao asked, looking at Song Xuan, who seemed lost.


    She suddenly threw herself into his arms, crying softly. "Brother Xiao, a moment ago, I thought I''d never see you again. I was so scared¡ªterrified! Thank goodness you came right away to help me."


    "It''s alright now. You''re fine," Gu Qixiao reassured her, gently patting her back.


    "Brother Xiao, you must care about me, or you wouldn''t havee to my aid, right? Brother Xiao, I love you. Let''s be together," Song Xuan said, her gaze fervent and frantic.


    Gu Qixiao immediately pushed her away in disgust. "Song Xuan, no matter how many times I say it, it''s impossible between us. Stop deluding yourself."

 Chapter 12: Stand Someone Up

    <h4>Chapter 12: Chapter 12: Stand Someone Up</h4>


    "No, this can''t be true. Xiao, you must be doing this out of guilt, right? If my brother knew that we loved each other, he would definitely give us his blessing."


    Watching Song Xuan spiral into hysteria, Gu Qixiao felt an intense impatience.


    Especially when he heard her bringing up her brother again, the disgust on his face deepened.


    "Enough. I''ve already told you it''s impossible for us to be together. I don''t want to hear such nonsense from you ever again."


    Gu Qixiao, with a pounding headache, quickly delegated the issue to Assistant Li and went straight to the private room. However, when he arrived and saw Ji Yu sitting inside, an intense irritation welled up in him.


    He had clearly told her before not to disrupt each other''s lives anymore¡ªespecially since this woman was acquainted with the wife who had humiliated him with infidelity.


    At this thought, Gu Qixiao didn''t even bother to enter the room and left directly. Before leaving, he deliberately sent Assistant Li a message and turned to book another private room nearby.


    He wanted to see for himself what this married woman, who had gone to great lengths to contact his father to lure him out, was truly after!


    Meanwhile, Ji Yu kept ncing at the time on her phone, watching the minutes tick by. After waiting nearly an hour without seeing Gu Qixiao, she simply got up and left.


    "Hey, Qinqin, this matter might require us to think it through long-term."


    Feng Qinqin, who already knew Ji Yu hadn''t managed to meet Gu Qixiao as nned, wasn''t overly concerned. The Gu family, after halting the coboration abruptly, would naturally have to give the Feng family an exnation.


    Still, if Gu Qixiao didn''t even show respect for his own father, alternative strategies would be necessary.


    After hanging up the call, Ji Yu drove off, heading directly to meet Feng Qinqin.


    At the Feng residence, inside Feng Qinqin''s bedroom.


    When Ji Yu arrived, she was greeted by the sight of Feng Qinqin only just getting out of bed. Even though she was used to her friend''s disheveled appearance, in that moment, Ji Yu couldn''t help but feel a surge of irritation.


    Not for any other reason¡ªGu Qixiao had stood her up.


    "President Ji, don''t be like this... I-I''m getting up right now!"


    Although Feng Qinqin knew Ji Yu''s anger wasn''t directed at her, she was still slightly panicked and quickly got up.


    After a few short minutes of tidying up, the two of them began their ''trial'' against Gu Qixiao.


    "That Gu Qixiao is just ridiculous! You were married for three years¡ªhow has it nowe to a point where even meeting him has be so difficult?"


    "Especially since this time, it wasn''t even you who..."


    Hearing Feng Qinqin start to bring up the fact that she didn''t directly contact Gu Qixiao¡ªafraid her best friend might find out how embarrassing it was that she didn''t even have her husband''s phone number after three years of marriage¡ªJi Yu quickly interrupted her.


    "Alright, alright, that''s not important right now. What we need is a long-term strategy."


    "For the Gu family, canceling a coboration isn''t a big deal. But for the Feng family, being forced into cancetion will undoubtedly damage their reputation."


    Feng Qinqin understood Ji Yu''s point. Even though her father hadn''t exined much to her, she wasn''t oblivious to the potential implications.


    She could distinguish between rtionships built on trust and those founded on pure material gain.


    Considering these factors, Feng Qinqin and Ji Yu began brainstorming alternative solutions to this predicament...


    At the same time, Gu Qixiao, who had been in the neighboring private room, noticed the unusual silence. He was about to go check when his phone suddenly rang.


    Seeing the caller ID, Gu Qixiao pinched the throbbing spot on his temple.


    "Hello."


    Before Gu Qixiao could ask anything, Song Xuan''s voice came ring from the other end of the line.


    "I refuse to go through with treatment! If even Xiao doesn''t want to see me, then what''s the point? I''ve been struggling to survive all these years¡ªit''s enough!"


    "Get out! All of you, leave me alone! I don''t want the treatment!"


    Listening to Song Xuan''s frenzied cries, Gu Qixiao felt helpless.


    He didn''t need Assistant Li to spell it out¡ªhe already understood what this meant.


    So, before Assistant Li could even utter the words "help me," Gu Qixiao hung up and headed straight for the hospital.


    Even though he truly didn''t like Song Xuan, he still couldn''t stand by and let her endanger her life with such reckless behavior.


    For three years, he had been repaying this debt. He couldn''t allow an incident to happen when he was just beginning to feel a slight ease from it.


    ...


    All along, Mr. Gu had thought Ji Yu and Gu Qixiao were in pleasant conversation. He didn''t bother them, hoping for the best.


    It wasn''t until evening that he reached out to Ji Yu to ask about how things were going.


    "Yu, how did your chat with that fool go?"


    Ji Yu, who had just pulled up outside the Ji residence, quickly parked her car and answered the phone. Upon hearing Mr. Gu''s question, though, she froze for a moment.


    Did Mr. Gu really not know that Gu Qixiao hadn''t shown up?


    Well, considering he was bold enough to keep a mistress, this little thing probably didn''t bother him in the slightest.


    "Dad, after waiting in the private room for a while, I had to leave because of something urgent at the hospital."


    Mr. Gu, familiar with her demanding job, didn''t push and let her change the subject without bringing up the no-show explicitly.


    He understood what Ji Yu''s words implied.


    Still, the fact that the couple had been married for three years yet needed him to coordinate their meetings troubled him.


    That two people who should have been intimate now acted like strangers undeniably hinted at deeper issues.


    Ji Yu understood Mr. Gu''s concerns. However, since their divorce wasn''t yet public knowledge and Gu Qixiao hadn''t broached it first, she couldn''t initiate the topic herself.


    That said, the Feng family''s current situation was indeed tricky.


    Even if she couldn''t salvage the partnership, she at least wanted to know the reason behind its sudden termination.


    Even a criminal sentenced to death is informed of their crime beforehand¡ªhow could the established Feng family not deserve the same?


    The Gu family''s actions were baffling, and if the Feng family made one wrong move, it could spell disaster for them.


    "Dad, actually, it''s about my best friend..."


    Ji Yu wasn''t trying to use her status as the Gu family''s daughter-inw to solve Feng Qinqin''s problem. But in times like these, lending a helping hand seemed unavoidable.


    Finally, in the Ji family garage, Ji Yu exined the sudden cancetion of the partnership between the Gu and Feng families to Mr. Gu. She repeatedly emphasized she only wanted to understand the specific reasons behind it.


    Her earnest tone convinced Mr. Gu that she wasn''t seeking any undue advantages and strengthened his belief that he had chosen well for his son.


    Especially since, over the past three years, Ji Yu had never stirred up scandal or drama, even as Gu Qixiao buried himself in work. She neitherined nor made a scene.


    "Don''t worry¡ªI''ll get to the bottom of this for you."


    Mr. Gu''s reassurance eased Ji Yu''s mind. She and Feng Qinqin had spent the entire afternoon brainstorming, but every idea seemed fraught with risk.


    Now that Mr. Gu was taking the initiative, getting the answer would definitely be much more straightforward.


    As for whether to resume the coboration with the Gu family, that would depend on their attitude.


    The Feng family wouldn''t go bankrupt due to severing this one partnership. However, the abrupt cancetion had caused other partners to specte that there was a problem within the Feng family.


    If this issue could be rified, the Feng family''s foundation would remain secure.


    Just as Ji Yu was finally ready to head home for dinner, Gu Qixiao¡ªwho had just mmed the dooring out of Song Xuan''s hospital room¡ªreceived a call from Mr. Gu.


    "You brat, get your ass home right now!"

 Chapter 13: Permanent Non-Cooperation

    <h4>Chapter 13: Chapter 13: Permanent Non-Cooperation</h4>


    Hearing the furious voice on the other end of the call, Gu Qixiao could only hang up and head home.


    As for Song Xuan, who was still raging nearby, he simply left her for Assistant Li to deal with.


    Song Xuan, who initially thought Gu Qixiao was still outside the door, continued throwing things in the hospital room. When there was nothing left to throw, she peered sneakily toward the doorway.


    "He''s really not here?!"


    Realizing Gu Qixiao''s figure was nowhere to be seen, Song Xuan plopped down on the bed to rest.


    Clutching the phone she hadn''t managed to throw, her gaze filled with indignation.


    "I''ve been acting for so long, for what..."


    With Gu Qixiao gone, the once-chaotic room grew quiet, letting Assistant Li, who was outside the door, finally rx a bit.


    Meanwhile, Gu Qixiao was driving alone back to the Gu Mansion. He rarely came back to the main residence, as a workaholic who spent most of his time at the office or on flights.


    Even though there was a marital home, for various reasons, he hadn''t lived there prior to the divorce. As for the main mansion, he hadn''t crossed paths with Ji Yu there either.


    After all, today it was Mr. Gu who summoned him home. Although Song Xuan''s confession earlier had left him feeling irritated, he could only endure it.


    He disliked bringing personal emotions into family matters.


    Because of this, Mr. Gu was unaware of Song Xuan''s existence, let alone the reason Gu Qixiao was going out of his way to take care of her.


    Evening, the Gu Mansion.


    As soon as Gu Qixiao arrived outside the mansion, the butler greeted him, "Young Master, the Old Master has been waiting for you."


    Seeing the butler at the door, Gu Qixiao instantly understood that whatever he had been summoned for likely wouldn''t be easy.


    He reluctantly got out of the car, tossed his keys to a nearby security guard, and entered while massaging his subtly throbbing temple.


    Had he known things would be so troublesome, he absolutely wouldn''t have returned.


    His patience had already been nearly drained dealing with Song Xuan earlier.


    "Dad." Upon seeing Mr. Gu sitting at the tea table, Gu Qixiao greeted him while walking over.


    But Mr. Gu didn''t respond, merely giving him a nce before picking up his teacup to resume drinking.


    Gu Qixiao wasn''t in a rush either. He sat down and began sipping tea himself. At the moment, rxing with tea felt quite appropriate for him.


    Father and son sat like this, tea cup by tea cup. Only when they finished their tea did Mr. Gu finally speak up with a faint tone.


    "I heard you canceled the coboration with the Feng family?"


    "Yes."


    "Reason?" Although Mr. Gu heard his son''s reply, he didn''t rush to me him.


    Even though his ideal daughter-inw personally came to inform him about this, he decided to understand the situation first.


    Gu Qixiao poured himself another cup of tea, waiting for the water to boil before continuing.


    "Someone in the Feng family has questionable intentions, and their associations..." He paused, realizing that Mr. Gu still didn''t know about his divorce from his wife of three years, Ji Yu. He revised his words.


    "And someone''s associations have led to an attempt to scheme against the Gu family."


    Scheme against the Gu family?


    Hearing this, Mr. Gu naturally didn''t interfere too much. Since he had already stepped back from the Gu Group, he wouldn''t meddle in his son''s decisions.


    However, considering his daughter-inw was the one who brought up this matter, he decided to share her contactter and let them discuss it directly.


    After this brief talk about work, the father and son moved to the dining table for dinner.


    Gu Qixiao initially thought that Mr. Gu''s impatient tone over the phone earlier implied something serious. Now, seeing Mr. Gu drop the matter, he rxed a bit.


    He was already irritated enough dealing with Song Xuan at the hospital earlier, and not knowing why Ji Yu had arranged for his father to call him made his mood even more unsettled.


    After finishing dinner with Mr. Gu, Gu Qixiao asked casually before resuming work, "Dad, do you know Dr. Ji Yu?"


    Upon hearing the name Ji Yu, Mr. Gu was surprised to realize his son was unaware of Ji Yu''s profession.


    Yet, learning that his son knew so little about his wife of three years made him furious. His tone, once gentle, turned sharp when speaking to Gu Qixiao.


    "I don''t know! Here''s her number. Ask her yourself."


    Infuriated by his son''s obliviousness to even Ji Yu''s name and job, Mr. Gu tossed a piece of paper with a phone number at Gu Qixiao and left abruptly.


    This son of his was absolutely hopeless!


    A fine young woman like Ji Yu marrying him was aplete waste!


    If it came down to it, he''d happily take Ji Yu as his own goddaughter and find her a proper household to marry into.


    Looking at the number his father threw at him, Gu Qixiao felt puzzled. However, recalling his father''s expression, he reluctantly keyed in the digits, despite his headache.


    As he finished dialing, the call connected after a brief wait, and a familiar voice answered, "Hello, may I ask who this is?"


    Without Gu Qixiao''s number saved in her phone, Ji Yu was just arriving outside the Ji family''s residence when she saw an iing call. Worried that it might be Feng Qinqin calling from another number about something urgent, she answered without hesitation and parked her car by the roadside for safety.


    She didn''t think much of it.


    The moment Gu Qixiao heard the voice on the other end, his expression froze.


    It was Ji Yu?


    Recalling what he had overheard during his coincidental meeting with Ji Yu and Wu Bei that day, Gu Qixiao wanted to immediately hang up.


    However, since it was his father who insisted on this call, there must have been a reason.


    "Miss Ji, my father asked me to get in touch with you," said Gu Qixiao curtly.


    Recognizing his voice, Ji Yu initially wanted to hang up, remembering how he had stood her up before. But, considering her best friend''s current predicament, she suppressed her frustration.


    "President Gu, since it''s your father who asked you to contact me, I won''t take up too much of your time and will get straight to the point."


    Ji Yu had no desire to exchange pleasantries. She sat in her car, spotting Ji Yuanzhou stepping out to greet her from a distance.


    "I want to ask on behalf of the Feng family, could you please exin why you suddenly canceled the coboration between the Gu Group and the Feng family?"


    Thinking of how the Feng family had several projects affected due to this coboration issue, Ji Yu felt a headacheing on.


    Her best friend, Feng Qinqin, was essentially a spoiled rich girl who rarely involved herself in family affairs.


    Now that even Qinqin had be concerned, it was clear the situation was dire for the Feng family.


    Remembering the care the Feng family had shown her in the past, Ji Yu naturally couldn''t ignore this.


    Even though she didn''t want too much entanglement with Gu Qixiao, asking a simple question didn''t seem unreasonable.


    Realizing Ji Yu was calling on behalf of the Feng family, Gu Qixiao quickly understood she was here to demand answers.


    Yet, aside from that one night, the two of them had no real connection. Besides, Ji Yu was already married.


    With that thought in mind, Gu Qixiao coldly replied and ended the call, "Character issues. No coboration."


    Ji Yu, who had been preparing for a heated exchange with Gu Qixiao, was left fuming when she heard the dial tone following his curt words. She mmed the steering wheel in frustration.


    Hearing the car horn, Ji Yuanzhou nced toward her vehicle, momentarily startled but not overly concerned.


    Meanwhile, Gu Qixiao, imagining Ji Yu going all out to help the Feng family, felt an inexplicable surge of anger burning inside him, leaving him agitated and restless.


    He picked up his phone and made a call, cutting off the Feng family entirely.


    "Inform the Feng family that the Gu Group will permanently cease coboration with them."

 Chapter 14 Why?!

    <h4>Chapter 14: Chapter 14 Why?!</h4>


    Ji Yu had no idea what Gu Qixiao was up to at the moment. She was furious about him hanging up the phone.


    But Ji Yuanzhou had already walked up, leaving her no choice but to suppress her temper.


    She had always presented herself as a good and obedient daughter in front of her family.


    Even back when she hastily divorced after guessing her brother Ji Yuanzhou''s thoughts, she still maintained her usual nature.


    Except asionally when with Feng Qinqin or dealing with troublesome clients.


    And now, another person had been added to that list: Gu Qixiao.


    "You''re back. Why aren''t you going inside the house?" Ji Yuanzhou''s voice came after Ji Yu lowered the car window.


    Looking at Ji Yuanzhou, Ji Yu felt her anger dissipate quite a bit.


    The Ji family treated her very well; she didn''t want her negative emotions to rub off on any of them.


    "It''s nothing, brother. A client called earlier in a rush, and I had to handle work-rted matters."


    When Ji Yuanzhou heard Ji Yu mention work, he didn''t press further.


    The family all knew Ji Yu''s personality when it came to her job¡ªdecisive and unwavering, but particrly serious about her clients.


    Even as the boss, she often handled matters personally, though clients who could truly warrant her attention were few and far between.


    However, when encountering reasonable clients, she would stillmunicate earnestly and kindly with them.


    Yet, if the client was unreasonable or refused to listen, she would naturally be extremely irritated.


    "Come on, Mom and Dad are waiting."


    Ji Yu nodded and followed Ji Yuanzhou back to the Ji family home. She still needed to park her car, but Ji Yuanzhou just walked straight back.


    Upon entering the house, Ji Yu saw the dinner table filled with dishes and her father and mother waiting there. Her heart felt warm.


    But she remembered she hadn''t told them about her divorce with Gu Qixiao yet. By then...


    "Yu''s back."


    Madam Ji immediately grabbed Ji Yu''s hand when she returned home, ncing instinctively behind her.


    Seeing only Ji Yuanzhou walking behind, the joy on Madam Ji''s face froze for a moment, but she quickly resumed smiling and led Ji Yu to the dining table.


    Ji Yu naturally understood what Madam Ji''s demeanor meant. Yet, their actions persisted even after three years¡ªit surprised her.


    During her three years of marriage to Gu Qixiao, Gu had never visited the Ji family''s home, not even for their wedding, which was hastily canceled.


    Ji Yu exined to the Ji family that she was just starting her business at the time and wanted to rely on her own efforts to build something meaningful.


    Had she and Gu Qixiao held a grand wedding, she would have instantly be the well-known Mrs. Gu. At that point, everything she did would be apanied by that reputation.


    Ji Yu wasn''t the type to strive forpetitive glory, but she disliked taking shortcuts.


    Consequently, the Ji family didn''t think much about it back then. Ji Yuanzhou, meanwhile, was consumed with the sorrow of seeing his beloved sister get married.


    His most cherished little sister had married someone he loathed¡ªGu Qixiao.


    From the moment the two got engaged, Ji Yuanzhou swore he would skin Gu Qixiao alive if ever given the chance.


    Had Ji Yu brought Gu Qixiao to the Ji household over the past three years, Ji Yuanzhou might have had worse disputes with Gu Qixiao, even physically.


    Yet, the Ji family didn''t know that Ji Yu hadn''t seen Gu Qixiao even once during those three years!


    Their first encounter was on the night they decided to divorce!


    And that meeting happened directly in a hotel room!


    "Mom, let''s eat. He''s too busy toe by!"


    Though Ji Yu knew she''d eventually need to tell her parents about the divorce, until that truth was revealed, she continued to act as if she and Gu Qixiao were warmly happy together.


    "Let''s eat!" Mr. Ji, who had remained silent thus far, spoke up after noticing Ji Yu fake herposure.


    Even as the Ji family had a warm meal, things were far fromfortable on Feng Qinqin''s end.


    After notifying Assistant Li, Gu Qixiao was still at home, working tirelessly onpany matters, not bothering to return to the office.


    Returning to the marital residence post-divorce meant staying there alone, so he opted to stay at the main family estate instead.


    If Mr. Gu asked tomorrow, he would just im there had been an important meeting and, after finishingte, wanted to avoid disturbing his wife''s rest.


    The Feng family management, upon hearing about the Gu family''s resolution, was aplete mess emotionally.


    Mr. Feng''s expression was the worst of all!


    Ever since Feng Qinqin proactively inquired aboutpany matters, Mr. Feng''s assistant discreetly sent the Gu family''s decision to Feng Qinqin.


    While ying outdoors alone, Feng Qinqin saw that message, and suddenly, the handsome man beside her lost all appeal!


    "No, on what grounds?!"


    Feng Qinqin''s sudden outburst startled everyone, leaving them unsure of what was going on, and no one dared to ask.


    Bing, who had been with Feng Qinqin over the past few days, bravely tried to speak up. "Lady Feng, what''s wrong..."


    "Get out! All of you, get out!"


    A slightly tipsy Feng Qinqin, spurred by alcohol and rage, shouted orders for everyone to leave. Naturally, Bing and the others wouldn''t dare anger their benefactor.


    Each person quietly exited the private VIP suite. Bing, thest one to leave, even courteously shut the door for her.


    As soon as Bing turned around, he found himself met with a pair of venomous eyes.


    Cai Xun''s malicious re made Bing shudder. Though he wanted to consider the situation inside the suite, in the end, he cautiously slipped away.


    With no one around, the suite''s music had long been turned off. Feng Qinqin sat alone, holding her wine ss.


    If Mr. Feng knew that Feng Qinqin was troubled because of thepany, he would surely feel gratified.


    His biggest fear was that, after his death, Feng Qinqin might be deceived and lose thepany.


    But this time, Gu Qixiao''s assertive attitude made Feng Qinqin realize everything she had ever experienced in life was backed by her father''s silent sacrifices.


    Now, faced with the Feng family''s ordeal, she found herself utterly powerless.


    A heartbroken Feng Qinqin heard the door open and felt her frustration find a target. Without caring who had entered, she hurled the wine bottle toward the door.


    With a crash, the bottle shattered against the wall, spraying shards of ss and wine everywhere.


    Cai Xun instinctively dodged, avoiding the bottle, then swiftly closed and locked the door¡ªa seamless move.


    Cai Xuning here had been idental. Upon seeing a room full of male models earlier, he instinctively called a friend to extend the suite''s reservation for the night.


    As for the misunderstandings between him and Feng Qinqin, resolving them would take a long night.


    "Qinqin, look at me," Cai Xun pleaded, unsure why she was so furious.


    He assumed Feng Qinqin was still mad at him for ignoring her days ago and smiled apologetically.


    But that smile felt especially grating to Feng Qinqin at the moment.


    Without even glimpsing the visitor''s face, Feng Qinqin''s swift movements said it all.


    "Feng Qinqin, what are you doing?!"

 Chapter 15: The Insatiable Vase

    <h4>Chapter 15: Chapter 15: The Insatiable Vase</h4>


    After being pped by Feng Qinqin, Cai Xun originally nned to humble himself and appease her, but seeing her current demeanor, his intention to concede evaporated.


    For the past while, Cai Xun had been preupied with his family''s smallpany, and it was only a few days ago that he felt a moment of relief due to an unexpected coboration with Gus Group.


    Apany that had been struggling to survive suddenly turned a significant profit under Gu Qixiao''s incidental involvement. In fact, it skyrocketed as more and more partners reached out for coborations.


    Although Cai Xun was well aware that many of these partners were offering small projects and minor benefits mainly because of Gus Group''s reputation, for his family''s smallpany, even crumbs were enough to sustain them.


    Moreover, Cai Xun clearly understood that these small benefits could pave his way to aplete turnaround. After all, no one knew better than him what exactly drove their profits.


    Thinking about how he would soon be the heir of a renowned business empire, the tantrums of this spoiled rich girl Feng Qinqin suddenly seemed beneath his notice.


    "Feng Qinqin, take a good look at who I am!"


    Even though Cai Xun no longer had the same affection for Feng Qinqin as before, the fact remained that the two families were professionally on par.


    In his view, he might as well make use of her while he could.


    "Who are you?" A drunken Feng Qinqin gazed at the blurry figure in front of her, unable to recognize him. Cai Xun felt a devious idea stirring within him.


    He had been dating Feng Qinqin for some time now, and although Feng Qinqin believed he was unaware of her identity as the heiress of the Feng family...


    In truth, Cai Xun had always maintained a careful yet friendly "boyfriend" distance.


    Now that he felt he was close to exploiting her fully, he swallowed hard.


    Even someone as worldly as Feng Qinqin possessed a unique allure. Had it not been for his ulterior motives in pursuing her initially, Cai Xun would''ve long indulged in the idea of having fun with her.


    Seeing her in this state today, Cai Xun naturally could not resist such a temptation.


    After all, as the saying goes, "A man would die willingly at the hands of a beauty..."


    Meanwhile, back at the Ji family home, Ji Yu had trouble sleeping the entire night after hearing Gu Qixiao''s words. Gu Qixiao''s impression of her, on the other hand, worsened even further.


    He had always thought of Ji Yu as nothing more than a promiscuous woman, someone who, even after all that had transpired between them post-marriage, could face him with shameless nonchnce.


    But when he realized that Ji Yu had actually been able to contact him via his father, Gu Qixiao''s impression of her plummeted to new depths.


    If someone had asked Gu Qixiao about Ji Yu, his response would have been straightforward: A greedy, vacuous beauty!


    Initially, he only nned toin inwardly, but to his surprise, the next morning, as Gu Qixiao was heading out to thepany, Mr. Gu stopped him.


    "I hope you''ll reconsider matters regarding Yu. I trust her character," Mr. Gu said.


    The "Yu" Mr. Gu referred to was, of course, none other than Ji Yu, whom Gu Qixiao had misjudged.


    Though their names were nearly identical, the misunderstanding and ensuing consequences went unnoticed by everyone involved.


    "I''ve already dealt with it," Gu Qixiao replied.


    Believing everything was settled, Mr. Gu waited for Gu Qixiao to leave before promptly dialing Ji Yu.


    Though Gu Qixiaocked tact when it came to emotions, Mr. Gu had a much better impression of Ji Yu. At this moment, he was eager to bring her into their home immediately.


    Ji Yu, who was taking the rare chance to sleep in due to herck of clients, was startled awake by Mr. Gu''s phone call.


    Seeing the caller ID, Ji Yu had no choice but to suppress her irritation.


    "Hello, Dad," she answered.


    "Yu, are you free today?" Mr. Gu asked.


    Still groggy, Ji Yu was about to agree, but a nce at the time on her phone snapped her wide awake.


    The next morning, when Feng Qinqin woke up in pain all over, she groped for her phone and sent a message to Ji Yu. Ji Yu, meanwhile, who had just been about to confirm her ns with Mr. Gu, immediately changed her mind upon seeing the "SOS" message from Feng Qinqin.


    "Dad, my friend has an emergency, so I might not be able to apany you today," Ji Yu quickly excused herself.


    Mr. Gu originally intended to tell Ji Yu in person that Gu Qixiao had taken care of the matter she mentioned. But with this interruption, the call ended abruptly.


    After hanging up, Ji Yu unplugged her fully-charged phone, dressed as fast as she could, and after notifying Madam Ji and Mr. Ji, she rushed to Nightcolor, the exclusive club.


    On her way there, she gave Feng Qinqin a call to ask about the situation.


    "Qinqin, what happened?"


    Ji Yu knew her best friend liked to have fun, but she never thought it would go too far.


    Not until Feng Qinqin sent that urgent message.


    On the other end of the line, Feng Qinqin could only manage muffled sobs. A server, initially intending to remind her about the end of her private room reservation, was startled by her state upon seeing her.


    "Lady Feng..."


    Not wanting to speak, Feng Qinqin gave the server a fleeting nce and threw her membership card at them before continuing to cry into the phone.


    The server, understanding their ce, refrained from asking more and quietly left with the card.


    Those who worked there were well aware of Feng Qinqin''s background. Knowing she was not someone they could afford to offend, they wisely chose not to interfere.


    "Qinqin, say something," Ji Yu prodded her friend as patiently as she could while flooring the gas pedal.


    Anyone watching would have likely questioned whether the driver of her car had a death wish.


    Since the morning rush hour had just passed, Ji Yu managed to reach Nightcolor in no time.


    "Qinqin, open the door."


    When Ji Yu arrived, she found Feng Qinqin had already locked herself in the private room. Before trying the door, the server reminded Ji Yu and returned Feng Qinqin''s VVIP card.


    Although she couldn''t see what had transpired inside, Ji Yu had faith that Qinqin woulde and open the door.


    Soon after, a disheveled Feng Qinqin opened the door and pulled Ji Yu inside.


    She truly was a wreck.


    Feng Qinqin''s makeup was smudged beyond recognition; even her clothes looked tattered and messy.


    If Ji Yu hadn''t known Feng Qinqin for years, she would''ve doubted the person standing before her was Feng Qinqin.


    Before Ji Yu could even ask what had happened, Feng Qinqin broke down and clung to her, wailing uncontrobly.


    This was nothing like the poised woman who had leaned on Ji Yu after her divorce.


    The two stayed like that for some time, until Feng Qinqin couldn''t cry any longer. Only then did Ji Yu finally get the whole story out of her.


    Through choking sobs, Feng Qinqin recounted waking up to find herself vited and exined that surveince footage confirmed Cai Xun was thest to leave.


    Moreover, Feng Qinqin revealed every detail of how Gus Group had been targeting the Feng family''s business, missing nothing.


    Hearing everything, Ji Yu''s fury mirrored Feng Qinqin''s initial reaction.


    She couldn''tprehend why Gus Group would do such a thing.


    Feeling a burning rage in her chest, Ji Yu pulled out her phone and dialed the same number Gu Qixiao had called her from yesterday.


    Unfortunately, Gu Qixiao didn''t even give her a chance to argue. The moment the call connected, it was immediately cut off.


    Ji Yu''s hand hovered over the phone, ready to call again, but when she saw the message he sent, she froze before lowering her handpletely.


    [Apologies, Doctor Ji, but Gus Group does not coborate with greedy, vacuous beauties.]

 Chapter 16: Eat It All Up Without Leaving Anything Behind, No Longer Human?

    <h4>Chapter 16: Chapter 16: Eat It All Up Without Leaving Anything Behind, No Longer Human?</h4>


    Looking at the message on her phone, Ji Yu¡¯s anger burned even hotter.


    What does Gu Qixiao mean by this?


    Seeing Ji Yu¡¯s expression, the previously grieving Feng Qinqin cautiously nced at Ji Yu¡¯s phone.


    Gu Qixiao¡¯s name at the top of the message was particrly ring, and the content below felt like a p in the face!


    "A greedy vase..."


    Feng Qinqin, who couldn¡¯t understand why her family had given Gu Qixiao such an impression, felt her headache worsen. Though she had never meddled in her family¡¯s business, she was sure her father treated everyone equally when hiring people.


    He would certainly not hire someone just because they were attractive or sweet-talking. If that had ever happened, she would have known!


    But there¡¯s no smoke without fire. Since Gu Qixiao said such a thing, he must have his reasons.


    Suddenly, Feng Qinqin was consumed by thoughts of how to help her family resolve this matter. But no matter how hard she thought, she realized she was useless!


    She had no choice but to rely on Ji Yu to help her!


    Although she felt embarrassed, Feng Qinqin still acted coy and clung to Ji Yu.


    "Yuyu~"


    "Stop!" Ji Yu cut Feng Qinqin off as soon as she heard her acting coy, knowing exactly what she meant.


    Interrupting Feng Qinqin¡¯s act immediately, Ji Yu rubbed her temple, frustrated after running here first thing after waking up, her head aching fiercely.


    She would definitely help Feng Qinqin, but this matter required careful nning.


    "At the very least, we can¡¯t let the Feng family¡¯s business copse in the short term. So we deal with this step by step."


    Feng Qinqin, who had no knowledge of business management, nodded continuously at Ji Yu¡¯s words, her head bobbing like a drumstick, though she didn¡¯t understand what Ji Yu meant.


    It wasn¡¯t until Ji Yu brought her to Cai Xun¡¯spany that she suddenly realized.


    Last night she had been bullied by Cai Xun!


    Cai Xun, upon seeing Ji Yu and Feng Qinqin, appeared startled, his expression betraying the unease of someone caught red-handed.


    In Cai Xun¡¯s office, Ji Yu looked at him coldly as he served tea and water for them, her smile dripping with disdain.


    Ji Yu¡¯s expression sent a chill down Cai Xun¡¯s spine as he nervously observed both women¡¯s reactions.


    "Ji Yu, why are you looking at me like that?"


    Cai Xun had rarely encountered Ji Yu, but every time he did, particrly when she was with Feng Qinqin, it was as though she saw through himpletely, giving him the creeps.


    Though their encounters were sparse, Cai Xun secretly feared Ji Yu.


    To put it in inte speak, no one ever seemed worthy enough for a best friend in the eyes of her closest confidant.


    As the ultimate rival in garnering the favor of Feng Qinqin¡¯s closest friend, Cai Xun was well-ustomed to Ji Yu¡¯s frosty demeanor toward him.


    But after what happenedst night, Cai Xun now felt an overwhelming sense of dread when looking at Ji Yu.


    If this weren¡¯t his ownpany, Cai Xun believed these two women might have torn him to pieces by now.


    Seeing they hadn¡¯t yet asked directly, Cai Xun decided to feign ignorance.


    "How am I looking at you?"


    "What, don¡¯t you know what you¡¯ve done?"


    Though Feng Qinqin remained silent beside Ji Yu, her polished appearance made Cai Xun realize Ji Yu was here to confront him on her behalf.


    Thinking of his official status as Feng Qinqin¡¯s boyfriend and recalling the precautions he had taken in the private booth without surveince, Cai Xun reassured himself they couldn¡¯t have any evidence.


    This thought emboldened Cai Xun further, and he straightened up in his chair.


    "What are you saying?"


    The victim, standing silently nearby, couldn¡¯t suppress her anger as effortlessly as Ji Yu could.


    "Enough, Cai Xun! Do you really think ying dumb is amusing?"


    "I, Feng Qinqin, am no fool. I was just drunk that night, not brainless. Do you really need me to spell out what you did to me?"


    Hearing Feng Qinqin¡¯s words, Cai Xun froze momentarily before quickly regaining hisposure.


    He couldn¡¯t admit anything. If there was no evidence, how could he confess?


    As though anticipating Cai Xun¡¯s excuses, Ji Yu didn¡¯t give him the chance to fabricate exnations or alibis. She immediately pulled out the printed photographs from her bag.


    As a VVIP at Night Color Bar, obtaining surveince footage was a breeze.


    The printed photos included timestamps, and seeing the time and his own face in the images, Cai Xun gulped nervously.


    Still, he managed to remain calm, saying, "So what?"


    "Yesterday, I happened to learn Qinqin was at Night Color Bar. Am I not allowed to find my girlfriend?"


    Convinced of their rtionship, Cai Xun grew increasingly confident.


    But Ji Yu didn¡¯t see it that way. Feng Qinqin had been drunk the previous night, and Cai Xun¡¯s actions constituted a crime.


    Thinking of his despicable demeanor, Ji Yu¡¯s expression grew even grimmer.


    While Feng Qinqin could be yful, she never crossed the line excessively.


    Even when hiring male models in the past, she stuck to regrs like Bing and Quan.


    Other male models were only brought in as extras when needed for group games.


    No matter that Cai Xun was Feng Qinqin¡¯s boyfriend¡ªwithout her consent, his actions were criminal.


    "So, are you just taking what you want and abandoning morality altogether?"


    Beside her, Feng Qinqin nodded fervently in agreement with Ji Yu¡¯s words, even without speaking.


    In Feng Qinqin¡¯s view, Cai Xun really was just like that.


    Recalling Cai Xun¡¯s previous disys of sycophancy, Feng Qinqin grew even angrier.


    But then she thought of their past rtionship and began to feel maybe it wasn¡¯t that big of a deal after all.


    Especially when she herself had...


    Detecting Feng Qinqin¡¯s wavering thoughts, Ji Yu didn¡¯t give her any chance to second-guess herself. She mmed the remaining photos onto the desk, left a sharp warning, and dragged Feng Qinqin out of Cai Xun¡¯s office.


    "Cai Xun, weigh this matter carefully yourself!"


    Originally on the verge of rpsing into a starry-eyed infatuation, Feng Qinqin found herself abruptly yanked away by Ji Yu. Attempting to protest, she turned back, only to feel a sudden pain in her arm.


    "Ah!"


    Ji Yu pinched Feng Qinqin¡¯s arm and dragged her away from Cai Xun¡¯spany.


    Only upon reaching the parking lot downstairs did Ji Yu release her grip.


    "Can you use your brain for once?" Ji Yu said angrily, ring at Feng Qinqin.


    She had just gone to great lengths to help Feng Qinqin gain the upper hand, and this girl almost ruined it by getting emotional and forgiving Cai Xun!


    Had she not known Feng Qinqin well, Ji Yu might never have anticipated this oue.


    Fortunately, her quick thinking had intimidated Cai Xun before they left.


    After pulling Feng Qinqin into the car, Ji Yu was about to take her to the Feng family¡¯spany to discuss next steps with Mr. Feng when a call from Mr. Gu came in.


    "Hello, Dad."


    "Yu,e home for lunch at noon."

 Chapter 17 Unreasonable

    <h4>Chapter 17: Chapter 17 Unreasonable</h4>


    Upon hearing Mr. Gu¡¯s words on the other end of the phone, Ji Yu felt utterly conflicted.


    Resolving the issues within the Feng family wasn¡¯t easy, especially with Gu Qixiao¡¯s unyielding attitude.


    If the Gu family refused to relent, the problems with the Feng family would only be harder to tackle; many matters required careful nning.


    Still, the thought that Mr. Gu might know something stirred Ji Yu¡¯s emotions into disarray once more.


    Feng Qinqin observed Ji Yu¡¯s torn expression and intentionally spoke near Ji Yu¡¯s phone, pretending it was casual, ensuring Mr. Gu could hear her voice.


    "Yuyu~"


    Looking at Feng Qinqin¡¯s antics, Ji Yu gave a helpless smile and was prepared to decline Mr. Gu¡¯s invitation.


    But just as she was about to speak and refuse, Mr. Gu seemed to anticipate her intention and turned the tables.


    "That girl from the Feng family is beside you, isn¡¯t she? Why don¡¯t both of youe to the house for dinner? Otherwise, I¡¯ll be stuck here as a lonely old man eating a tableful of dishes by myself."


    Ji Yu, who had originally nned to refuse, suddenly found herself at a loss for words due to Mr. Gu¡¯s few sentences. Lucky for her, Feng Qinqin was quick-witted.


    Hearing Mr. Gu¡¯s proactive invitation, anyone could tell the appropriate response was clear as day.


    "We¡¯ll head over soon!"


    Feng Qinqin¡¯s cheerful and forthright personality was well-known throughout the elite social circle in Beijing, so her direct response over the phone didn¡¯t annoy Mr. Gu.


    Hearing Feng Qinqin¡¯s heartyughter even made Mr. Gu feel rather pleased.


    In fact, it prompted him to momentarily muse why his own son didn¡¯t have such a personality. If Gu Qixiao were this carefree, he probably wouldn¡¯t need to worry so much at this age.


    But s, life doesn¡¯t always go the way one wishes.


    "Alright, we¡¯ll head over in a bit."


    Since Feng Qinqin had already agreed on Ji Yu¡¯s behalf, Ji Yu had no grounds to refuse.


    After a few casual exchanges with Mr. Gu, Ji Yu hung up the phone and drove Feng Qinqin to the Gu Mansion.


    Of course, along the way, she didn¡¯t forget to stop by a gift shop to prepare a small present for Mr. Gu.


    Technically, as the Gu family¡¯s daughter-inw in name, it wouldn¡¯t have been unreasonable for her to skip the gesture. But Feng Qinqin wasn¡¯t in the same position.


    Initially, Feng Qinqin hadn¡¯t considered these details, but it dawned on her only when Ji Yu brought her to the shop.


    "Yuyu, thank goodness for you." With exaggerated sniffles and tearful theatrics, Feng Qinqin hugged Ji Yu¡¯s slender waist.


    Her delicate waist felt just right in Feng Qinqin¡¯s arms, and before letting go, she even sneakily tickled Ji Yu¡¯s stomach.


    "Alright, I¡¯ve already picked out the item for you on the way. Just pay for it and let¡¯s go."


    Seeing that Ji Yu had arranged everything for her, Feng Qinqin swiftlypleted the payment process and followed after her out of the store.


    After all, having been Gu Qixiao¡¯s wife for three years¡ªdespite never having met him¡ªJi Yu would often visit Mr. Gu during those years.


    Especially since Mr. Gu held her in higher regard, Ji Yu had a good sense of his likes and dislikes.


    When the two reached the Gu Mansion, the food was just freshly prepared.


    Watching the housekeeper arrange the dishes on the table one by one, Ji Yu smiled knowingly.


    Mr. Gu always did this¡ªpretending he¡¯d prepared avish meal whileining, but actually only starting to cook once Ji Yu had agreed toe.


    Ji Yu never exposed his little act.


    "You¡¯re here,e sit."


    Seeing the two of them arrive at the mansion, Mr. Gu didn¡¯t rush to chat with them. Since the dishes were ready, there was no harm in eating first.


    When Feng Qinqin handed over the gift to Mr. Gu, she noticed the obvious smile at the corner of his mouth, and the three of them ate the meal in greatfort.


    The atmosphere was so pleasant that the two almost forgot they had other business at the Gu household.


    Fortunately, Mr. Gu hadn¡¯t called Ji Yu over merely forpanionship. After the meal, the conversation grew heavier.


    "Yu, that silly boy told me the matter has been resolved, right?"


    Hearing Mr. Gu talk about the issue being resolved, Ji Yu froze for a moment and then quickly understood.


    Gu Qixiao had likely said that to prevent Mr. Gu from interfering in his decisions.


    If Gu Qixiao was indeed ying this angle, resolving the matters with the Feng family would undoubtedly be even harder.


    Ji Yu was still contemting how best to respond when the straightforward Feng Qinqin jumped in and exined what had happened.


    Although Feng Qinqin didn¡¯t know the full details¡ªnor was she aware of the Feng family high-level executives¡¯ current ns¡ª


    She did know the coboration cancetion by Gu Qixiao was abrupt and that he had decided never to cooperate with the Feng family again.


    Merely these two points were enough for Mr. Gu¡¯s expression to change significantly as he listened.


    If not for Feng Qinqin¡¯s presence, Mr. Gu probably would¡¯ve immediately called up Gu Qixiao to berate his rebellious son.


    Gu Qixiao hadn¡¯t anticipated that Feng Qinqin would afford him some semnce of dignity as President.


    "Yu,e with me to thepanyter."


    Ji Yu understood Mr. Gu¡¯s underlying intent immediately, and upon hearing that Mr. Gu wanted her to visit Gus Group, Feng Qinqin¡¯s eyes lit up.


    However, considering Feng Qinqin might struggle to handle her affairs alone upon returning home, Ji Yu ultimately declined Mr. Gu¡¯s proposal.


    Ji Yu and Feng Qinqin left the mansion shortly after, heading to the Feng household, leaving Mr. Gu alone at the mansion to stew in frustration.


    Not long after their departure, Mr. Gu¡¯s irritation boiled over, and he promptly ordered the driver to take him to Gus Group.


    Soon, the booming voice of Mr. Gu echoed from Gu Qixiao¡¯s office.


    "Gu Qixiao, get over here, you brat!"


    Although Mr. Gu had stepped down from his position, as the former President of Gus Group, not even Assistant Li dared to block his path.


    Thus, when Mr. Gu reached Gu Qixiao¡¯s office, there weren¡¯t many employees present. Assistant Li and a few others remained in the workspace outside the office.


    Among them were assistants Mr. Gu had promoted back in his tenure, and many were grateful to the elder Gu, further ensuring no one tried to obstruct him.


    Gu Qixiao, initially engrossed in aplex project, was startled by his father¡¯s voice, pausing in shock, thinking he¡¯d imagined it due to stress.


    Looking up, he saw Mr. Gu standing right before him.


    "Dad, why are you here?"


    Even though he didn¡¯t know Mr. Gu¡¯s reason foring to thepany, Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t dare disregard his father.


    He quickly poured tea for Mr. Gu and, upon his arrival, indicated to Assistant Li that no one should disturb him in the office.


    Recently, Gu Qixiao had found Mr. Gu increasingly unreasonable. His gut told him this visit wouldn¡¯t bring anything good.

 Chapter 18 It’s Impossible! Absolutely Impossible!

    <h4>Chapter 18: Chapter 18 It¡¯s Impossible! Absolutely Impossible!</h4>


    "Why am I here?"


    "What, a few days ying the big boss has made you forget the rules?"


    "Why can¡¯t Ie to thispany!"


    Thinking about the reckless things Gu Qixiao had done, as mentioned by Feng Qinqin during dinner earlier, Mr. Gu was fuming.


    Looking at his son right now, Mr. Gu found him annoying in every way, even wishing this son of his could simply crawl back into the womb of his mother, who passed away years ago, and be remade.


    Though such thoughts were unrealistic, Mr. Gu¡¯s anger wasn¡¯t entirely unwarranted.


    The Feng family, as a century-old establishment in the capital¡¯s construction industry circle, represented a coboration opportunity with the Gu family that was undeniably win-win.


    Yet, Gu Qixiao had outright dered never to cooperate just because he disliked a few people, leaving Mr. Gu¡¯s reputation in tatters!


    What made it worse was that the Feng family¡¯s daughter was friends with Ji Yu!


    The more Mr. Gu thought about it, the angrier he grew, even wanting to p some sense into Gu Qixiao.


    But after all, the boy was his own son, and more than that, his son was the big boss.


    Should he bring undue attention to himself byying a hand on his son within thepany, it would only be his own dignity at stake.


    Weighing the pros and cons, Mr. Gu begrudgingly decided to settle for a verbal admonishment and demanded that Gu Qixiao apologize to the Feng family.


    "Prepare a proper apology gift now. You¡¯lle with me to apologize to the Feng familyter."


    Hearing his father¡¯s words, Gu Qixiao naturally understood what was on his mind.


    But no way in hell!


    Gu Qixiao refused to work with people whose personal lives were a mess, even if those people weren¡¯t employees of the Feng family.


    Since the Feng family allowed their daughter to associate with such individuals, they should ept the consequences.


    "No way! Absolutely no way!"


    Fully understanding his father¡¯s temperament, Gu Qixiao adamantly refused while walking toward the door and pulling it open.


    As long as the office door was open, whatever scolding came next from Mr. Gu wouldn¡¯t be as unbearable.


    But just as he reached the doorway, he didn¡¯t expect Mr. Gu to suddenly stop yelling.


    "You¡¯re sure about not apologizing? Fine, but don¡¯t regret it!"


    Having delivered his warning and already vented some frustration on Gu Qixiao, Mr. Gu decided he could deal with the fallout another time and swiftly stormed out.


    Initially assuming his father would continue squabbling for ages, Gu Qixiao watched him leave, then sat back down to focus on work.


    Still, deep down, his impression of Ji Yu had further plummeted.


    Meanwhile, Ji Yu, who was at the Feng family residence, had no knowledge of this. Even if she knew Gu Qixiao detested her more, she wouldn¡¯t care.


    The marriage was already headed for divorce; whether he hated her or not made no difference.


    "President Gu, here are the materials rted to Canning Group."


    While silently cursing Ji Yu in his mind, Gu Qixiao reviewed the project contracts. At that moment, Assistant Li, who had been tasked earlier to investigate potential partnerpanies, handed over information on Canning Group.


    Canning Group, unlike the Feng family¡¯s enterprise, was a newly founded constructionpany that typically wouldn¡¯t even catch Gu Qixiao¡¯s attention.


    Though Gu Qixiao had supported various start-up projects over the years, working with a "three-nopany" like Canning Group was a first.


    During his investigation, Assistant Li grew curious about thispany as well.


    For a constructionpany, the name "Canning Group" sounded particrly odd.


    Coupled with the fact that it was a small family business, with its overall value assessment falling short of previous studios funded by Gu Qixiao, it seemed inconsequential.


    But since the boss wanted information, there had to be a reason behind it.


    Operating under that principle, Assistant Li handed over all the relevant documents to Gu Qixiao without saying a word.


    When Gu Qixiao decided to meet with Canning Group¡¯s representative, Assistant Li innocently assumed his boss had some new strategy in mind.


    Little did he know, his boss was simply acting out of spite after his earlier argument with his father.


    In Gu Qixiao¡¯s mind, he didn¡¯t believe there was anypany capable of recing the Feng family.


    Although the Feng family was indeed a veteran in the construction industry, the Gu family was an empire. If necessary, he could build an entire construction industry chain from scratch.


    It was precisely this mindset that led Gu Qixiao to choose Canning Group in his anger.


    Ever since hearing that Gus Group had started to research and inquire about hispany, Cai Xun had been eagerly waiting for news of active contact from them.


    Finally, after rereading his treasured novels repeatedly and just finishing assembling a domino set, the anticipated call from Gus Group reached Canning Group and transferred through the internal line to Cai Xun¡¯s officendline.


    "Hello, may I speak with Cai Xun, the responsible party for Canning Group?"


    Following orders from Gu Qixiao, Assistant Li immediately contacted Canning Group. Despite it being a smallpany, its meticulously arranged protocols left a good first impression.


    The detailed procedures and formalities created an impression of reliability and professionalism.


    Upon hearing Assistant Li¡¯s voice from the receiver, Cai Xun responded without hesitation.


    After a brief discussion and exchanging contact information, Cai Xun quickly gathered the workgroup that had been idly waiting for Gus Group to initiate contact.


    "Zhao, Xiaoli, inform nning Team 1 to pack up. Meet downstairs in five minutes; we¡¯re headed to Gus Group."


    "Understood, young Mr. Cai."


    Not even waiting for his assistant secretary to finish replying, Cai Xun demonstrated urgency upon receiving Gus Group¡¯s call.


    While no one knew exactly what was going on, many employees were visibly startled when they overheard Gus Group¡¯s name.


    Gus Group was practically legendary in the capital, and a smallpany like theirs somehow had the chance to coborate.


    If the partnership truly materialized, the entire workforce would likely erupt in celebration and might even consider splurging on grand advertisements to announce it to the world.


    After all, it was Gus Group!


    Though this was just wishful thinking, nobody had any clue about why Cai Xun was heading to Gus Group.


    All they knew was that he quickly left with nning Team 1, but which Gus Group office was he headed to?


    Sorry, nobody knew.


    "Hello, I¡¯m the representative for ¡¯Canning Group,¡¯ here to see Mr. Li."


    Calmly arriving at the reception desk, Cai Xun exined his purpose to the receptionist.


    Who would have thought that upon hearing the name "Mr. Li," the receptionist froze in confusion and failed to react for quite a while?


    If Assistant Li hadn¡¯t anticipated the group¡¯s arrival and made preparations to greet them downstairs, Cai Xun and his team might have struggled with essing the building.


    "Assistant Li, this is..."

 Chapter 19 Mistaken for Mrs. Gu

    <h4>Chapter 19: Chapter 19 Mistaken for Mrs. Gu</h4>


    The entire office knew that Assistant Li was Gu Qixiao¡¯s personal assistant, but the receptionist felt something big was happening when she saw Assistant Li chatting happily with the head of the Canning Group.


    "Hmm? What¡¯s wrong?" Assistant Li was not aware of the awkward incident that just urred.


    The receptionist, seeing that Assistant Li was clueless, didn¡¯t say much and watched them leave.


    It was onlyter in the elevator when Cai Xun directly called Assistant Li "Mr. Li" that Assistant Li understood what the receptionist meant earlier.


    "Sorry, I am President Gu¡¯s special assistant."


    Hearing Assistant Li introduce himself, Cai Xun was stunned for a moment, feeling quite awkward.


    Fortunately, before the awkwardnesssted too long, the elevator, which had been going up, stopped, and as they were preparing to leave, a woman walked in from the other side.


    The woman wasn¡¯t extraordinarily beautiful, but she didn¡¯t have the unsettling look of a cosmetic surgery face.


    Song Xuan, who had juste out of the private elevator, was thinking about how to find Gu Qixiao for a moment before seeing Assistant Li and Cai Xuning out of the other elevator.


    She was just pondering what excuse to use when her eyes lit up.


    "Miss Li." When Assistant Li saw Song Xuan, there was no hesitation, as if the events of the past few days hadn¡¯t happened.


    After greeting Song Xuan quite naturally, Assistant Li was about to take Cai Xun to the CEO¡¯s office when Song Xuan stopped him after just a few steps.


    "Assistant Li, is Xiao in the office?"


    Though feeling a bit speechless internally, Assistant Li nodded in response to her.


    Without further words, he knocked directly on Gu Qixiao¡¯s office door.


    Gu Qixiao, who had been waiting in the CEO¡¯s office for Cai Xun, had already nned the next direction of cooperation, willing to help the other small workshop-scalepany up if they were obedient enough.


    Even though Cai Xun didn¡¯t know Gu Qixiao had such an arrogant thought, they were determined to secure cooperation with the Gu family Group.


    However, just as both were eagerly looking forward to the uing conversation, Song Xuan was the first to rush in after Assistant Li pushed open the CEO¡¯s office door.


    "Xiao!"


    Song Xuan didn¡¯t need to say much; a single call of "Xiao" made Gu Qixiao want to flee.


    But since the partners were still there and Song Xuan had special significance to him, Gu Qixiao suddenly felt his head starting to ache again.


    Clearly, he had felt much better just now, but who would have thought that it would start again so soon.


    Even the well-thought-out cooperation n seemed less appealing!


    Being the CEO, Gu Qixiao naturally couldn¡¯t voice everything he was thinking.


    Afterwards, the CEO¡¯s office was filled with an eerie atmosphere as everyone looked at each other.


    Assistant Li, seeing Gu Qixiao looking troubled, prepared to solve the problem proactively, but before he could speak, Cai Xun had already processed everything himself.


    "Since Mrs. Gu has business with President Gu, we can wait for a while."


    After saying this, Cai Xun quickly left the office, and Assistant Li, who initially wanted to help his boss, felt only frustrated after hearing his words.


    But since customers had arrived at thepany, they still needed to be arranged for; thinking of this, Assistant Li hurriedly followed.


    "Wait a moment, Mr. Cai, I¡¯ll take you to the meeting room."


    Being mistaken for Mrs. Gu made Song Xuan inwardly delighted.


    Especially since Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t voice that she wasn¡¯t Mrs. Gu, which only encouraged Song Xuan¡¯s fantasies about Gu Qixiao.


    Now that Assistant Li and Cai Xun had already left the CEO¡¯s office, Song Xuan naturally walked over to Gu Qixiao.


    At some point, she had taken out a food box and ced it in front of him.


    "Xiao, I was thinking about how busy you¡¯ve been with worktely, always running around for my sake, so I specially prepared this for you."


    Although Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t wish to ept Song Xuan¡¯s goodwill, after all, Song Xuan wasn¡¯t doing anything outrageous at that moment.


    He didn¡¯t pay attention to Song Xuan¡¯s self-congrattory approach to food giving, but after giving her a nce, he stated that he had work to do and left straight for the meeting room.


    Gu Qixiao¡¯s time in the meeting room was short, so short that Assistant Li never had a chance to exin Song Xuan¡¯s rtionship with Gu Qixiao to Cai Xun.


    Later, as both teams needed to negotiate a series of cooperation issues, everyone forgot about it.


    Cai Xun, unaware that he had mistaken someone for Mrs. Gu, had already started pondering how to expedite coboration with the Gus Group.


    Thinking about how Song Xuan approached earlier, a n gradually formed in Cai Xun¡¯s mind.


    The teams on both sides didn¡¯t have much disagreement on the issues, given the interconnectedness of the construction industry, so Gu Qixiao wasn¡¯t too worried.


    As for Cai Xun, aside from wanting to expedite coboration, he was more concerned about his future status as a wealthy young master.


    Coboration with the Gus Group was the primary objective for the Canning Group aiming for societal advancement, so Cai Xun didn¡¯t have much objection to this cooperation.


    Even though the teams sessfully concluded their discussions, to expedite his ownpany¡¯s coboration with the Gus Group, Cai Xun still nned for a "coincidental meeting" with Mrs. Guter.


    At this point, Song Xuan, unaware of being targeted, was preparing to leave after pestering Gu Qixiao for some time post-meeting, only to sense being watched when she reached downstairs.


    Not long after departing, she ended up coincidentally encountering Cai Xun again.


    Knowing his n was being executed step by step, Cai Xun smiled and greeted "Mrs. Gu" with a ttering tone.


    "Mrs. Gu."


    Being called "Mrs. Gu" made Song Xuan¡¯s once alert gaze towards Cai Xun soften instantly.


    Having always believed that Gu Qixiao liked her, the misunderstanding by Cai Xun made Song Xuan exceedingly excited.


    She was filled with affirmation of her own thoughts.


    "I knew Xiao must like me. Doing those things earlier was definitely to test if I truly liked him."


    Engrossed in a world of her own due to Cai Xun¡¯s "Mrs. Gu", Song Xuan continually fantasized about her future with Gu Qixiao,pletely forgetting Cai Xun¡¯s presence.


    If Cai Xun hadn¡¯t been following her consistently, Song Xuan, lost in her thoughts, almost ended up back in the hospital shortly after leaving it.


    "Mrs. Gu, be careful!"


    Sunk in her future fantasies, Song Xuan avoided being hit by a moving vehicle thanks to Cai Xun¡¯s timely intervention.


    Personally witnessing the car brush past her, Song Xuan felt anxious, not out of fear for nearly getting hurt, but for fear of Gu Qixiao being sad if something happened to her.


    The immersive fantasies Song Xuan entertained since being called "Mrs. Gu" by Cai Xun increased, and even after ensuring safety, she didn¡¯t think to maintain a distance from him.


    Assistant Li, who saw everything clearly from the sidelines, quickly went upstairs to report it to Gu Qixiao without missing a detail.


    Expecting that Gu Qixiao might truly be angry, Assistant Li found that Gu Qixiao wasn¡¯t bothered, so he didn¡¯t ask much and prepared to follow instructions.


    "Find someone to follow her and ensure her safety."

 Chapter 20 When Affection Eventually Runs Out

    <h4>Chapter 20: Chapter 20 When Affection Eventually Runs Out</h4>


    Gu Qixiao arranged for people to protect Song Xuan¡¯s safety, stemming from the life-saving act of her brother.


    Three years ago, despite the changing seasons, he had never forgotten the scene from that day...


    Three years ago, abroad.


    Gu Qixiao, who had originally nned to return home, encountered a local terrorist attack afterpleting a client meeting. Initially unaffected, Gu Qixiao and the two groups of clients intended to flee separately.


    Unexpectedly, after the clients left, Gu Qixiao¡¯s party was discovered by the terrorists.


    Surviving amidst a hail of bullets was exceedingly difficult. Under the protection of numerous bodyguards, Gu Qixiao could have safely withdrawn. However, just as everyone least expected, a gunshot came straight at Gu Qixiao.


    If subsequent investigations hadn¡¯t confirmed that these terrorists had been active locally, it would have been hard to determine whether their target was truly Gu Qixiao.


    "Tingdong!"


    When everyone witnessed Song Tingdong take a bullet for Gu Qixiao, the group was stunned.


    Screams and shouts mingled with the thick smoke billowing nearby, filling the air with chaos.


    Yet Gu Qixiao and his entourage stood rooted in ce, watching Song Tingdong¡¯s life quietly fade before their very eyes.


    And then there were Song Tingdong¡¯sst words, entrusting his sister to the group...


    Thinking again of Song Tingdong, Gu Qixiao¡¯s mood soured. Assistant Li, who had also experienced the terrorist attack firsthand, understood Gu Qixiao¡¯s behavior all too well.


    Over the past three years, Gu Qixiao had tolerated Song Xuan¡¯s temper solely out of respect for Song Tingdong¡¯s dying wish.


    Back then, when Gu Qixiao had just taken over thepany and his position was precarious, the incident with the terrorists had inadvertently solidified his status as head of the Gu family.


    But over time, everything has its expiration date¡ªsentiment eventually runs dry.


    Song Xuan, however, was oblivious to this.


    Having been saved by Cai Xun, Song Xuan sat down with his assistance. In his eagerness to curry favor and have Song Xuan speak positively about hispany, Cai Xun stayed close behind her.


    Typically sheltered by Gu Qixiao, Song Xuan experienced being protected by someone else for the first time, and her heart began to race.


    However, because this person was not Gu Qixiao, the excitement didn¡¯tst long.


    "Thank you, Little Mr. Cai."


    Recalling how Assistant Li had addressed him earlier, Song Xuan instinctively used the same title to express her gratitude.


    Looking at Song Xuan thank him sincerely, Cai Xun briefly entertained thoughts of pursuing her, were it not for her being Gu Qixiao¡¯s wife.


    Yet, because more pressing matters awaited, Cai Xun didn¡¯t act on those impulses.


    After exchanging contact information, the two parted ways without lingering further. In the days that followed this brief encounter, Song Xuan and Cai Xun remained in frequent contact.


    However, after a near-fatal car ident, Song Xuan and Cai Xun began to maintain a safe distance. That is, until the day Song Xuan, gued by headaches in her search for a stic surgery clinic, unexpectedly received a message from Cai Xun.


    [Mrs. Gu, are you looking for a reputable stic surgery hospital?]


    Seeing Cai Xun¡¯s text, Song Xuan felt ted. After all, Ji Yu had previously refused to let her undergo surgery to resemble her.


    She had even brazenly used her surgery as leverage to seduce Xiao right in front of her!


    Recalling Ji Yu¡¯s firm rejection of her request for the procedure, Song Xuan¡¯s distaste for the woman deepened.


    As she thought of Ji Yu, Song Xuan quickly typed her response.


    [Yes.]


    Learning of Song Xuan¡¯s desire for stic surgery, Cai Xun spared no effort in helping her contact hospitals and doctors. Meanwhile, the partnership between the Canning Group and the Gu family had sessfully been signed.


    Several dayster, Feng Qinqin and Ji Yu were still agonizing over the Feng family¡¯s contract negotiations, when the new assistant Tian proactively reached out to Ji Yu.


    As one of the major figures in the industry, Ji Yu rarely performed surgeries herself, except for cases of extremeplexity. The cost associated with these surgeries was also exorbitant.


    What set Ji Yu apart, often intimidating clients, were her "special requirements" for patients.


    Originally, Cai Xun had thought finding a stic surgeon for Song Xuan would be rtively simple, given the resources avable. That is, until he received a call from Tian and discovered the client information that Ji Yu had outright rejected.


    "If this Miss Song approaches me again for any projects, don¡¯t bother contacting me. You all can handle her yourselves."


    Anticipating that Song Xuan might require subsequent maintenance work, Ji Yu made her stance clear over the phone before preparing to hang up.


    "Oh, and one more thing: no one is permitted to perform surgeries on patients I¡¯ve worked with without my explicit consent¡ªespecially my clients. Vitors will face the enforcement of clinic rules."


    Tian didn¡¯t understand why Ji Yu had made such an arrangement but remained dutiful, as always.


    In Xi Medical Beauty stic Surgery Hospital, inside the chief surgeon¡¯s office.


    Apanied by Cai Xun, Song Xuan nced at the doctor and met their gaze, a momentary eye contact thatsted only seconds.


    Looking at the doctor before her, Song Xuan¡¯s desire to enhance her appearance intensified.


    "Doctor, I want to undergo stic surgery to look like..."


    The process, initially presumed to beplex, turned out to be surprisingly straightforward as soon as Song Xuan presented Ji Yu¡¯s photo. After a brief discussion of precautions, the surgery was scheduled for the next day.


    Despite the doctor¡¯s quick agreement and the smooth arrangements, Song Xuan meticulously reviewed the surgical precautions before the operation.


    She even called Gu Qixiao half an hour before the surgery.


    Though reluctant to meet Song Xuan, Gu Qixiao eventuallyplied due to her threats, arriving just a minute before the surgery was set to begin. After a brief nce at her, he left without further interaction.


    Meanwhile, as Song Xuan eagerly anticipated transforming herself into someone Gu Qixiao might favor, the Feng family¡¯s business partners began to suffer fallout from the Gu family¡¯s decisions.


    For a time, the partners engaged in heated debates, with many choosing to stay out of the fray to avoid trouble.


    Yet when Gu Qixiao lit this metaphorical fire, he never considered the coteral damage it might cause.


    "Xiao, deep down you still care about me."


    Before the surgery, Song Xuan was ecstatic to see Gu Qixiao visiting her.


    Her words only agitated Gu Qixiao further, as memories of Song Xuan wielding Song Tingdong¡¯s death to manipte him resurfaced, dragging him back into turmoil.


    And just before Song Xuan was ushered into the operating room, Assistant Li gave her one final reminder, "A word of advice: your brother¡¯s favor to President Gu will run out sooner orter."

 Chapter 21: Mr. Cai Should Take Good Care of Himself

    <h4>Chapter 21: Chapter 21: Mr. Cai Should Take Good Care of Himself</h4>


    Despite Assistant Li¡¯s warning for Song Xuan to mind her boundaries, Song Xuan, fully engrossed in the thought that Gu Qixiao willingly came to see her, naturally paid it no attention.


    In truth, if Song Tingdong hadn¡¯t chosen to save Gu Qixiao back then, perhaps Song Xuan wouldn¡¯t be like this now.


    But when a young woman encounters a man of such high status and position who shows her tender affection, it¡¯s difficult for anyone to maintainposure.


    However, it¡¯s a pity that Gu Qixiao has never had any improper intentions toward Song Xuan. Everything is just her own wishful thinking.


    Seeing that Song Xuan didn¡¯t heed his advice too much, Assistant Li said nothing further.


    After organizing the personnel tasked with secretly protecting Song Xuan, he followed Gu Qixiao back to work at the Gu family¡¯spany.


    After all, no matter how you look at it, paying attention to Song Xuan was solely due to Gu Qixiao¡¯s orders.


    Even if Song Xuan was Song Tingdong¡¯s sister, the only family he had left in this world, Assistant Li wouldn¡¯t go out of his way to show undue care.


    Honestly speaking, only Gu Qixiao would bother to do something like this.


    Watching Song Xuan being wheeled into the operating room once more, Gu Qixiao sighed with helplessness.


    Even though Gu Qixiao felt guilty in his heart, despite habitually rejecting Song Xuan¡¯s advances, he often couldn¡¯t help but indulge her under certain circumstances.


    "From now on, whenever situations like this arise, have them investigated beforehand. Just inform me, and I¡¯ll handle it in your stead," he said.


    Only because Gu Qixiao was unaware of Song Xuan¡¯s exact reasons for contacting him this time did hee to the hospital himself.


    Having learned this lesson, Gu Qixiao naturally resolved not to waste any more time on Song Xuan.


    A couple of days ago, when he stubbornly decided to cancel the coboration with the Feng family, the board of directors refrained from intervening much, but Gu Qixiao was well aware of the many watchful eyes constantly monitoring his actions.


    With the risk of being toppled at the slightest mistake, Gu Qixiao dared not take lightly the cooperation with Canning Group this time. Even if the other party was a non-starter, he had to find a way to elevate them.


    "Understood," Assistant Li replied helplessly to the reminder.


    He wasn¡¯t exactly hired to be Song Xuan¡¯s nanny¡ªon top of handling thepany¡¯s operations, he also had to constantly manage the array of unpredictable situations surrounding Gu Qixiao.


    Had it not been for the considerablepensation from the Gu family¡¯spany, Assistant Li might have already resigned long ago.


    With a face full of displeasure, Gu Qixiao finished speaking and swiftly departed, as if some ravenous demon were trailing behind him in the cosmetic surgery hospital.


    Watching his boss leave in a hurry, Assistant Li gave a bitter smile.


    When Cai Xun arrivedte, he just narrowly missed crossing paths with Gu Qixiao, with the two stepping in and out of separate elevators at the same time.


    By the time Cai Xun reached the operating room, Song Xuan¡¯s surgery had already begun.


    Originally intending to show off and make a favorable impression in front of Gu Qixiao, Cai Xun froze when he saw that only the just-departing Assistant Li remained outside the door.


    "Didn¡¯t they say Gu Qixiao had already been summoned and specifically instructed me not toe too early..."


    Recalling the message he had just received from Song Xuan on his phone, Cai Xun, certain it hadn¡¯t been sent in error, once again raised his head to see Assistant Li coincidentally heading his way.


    It wasn¡¯t as if Assistant Li purposely walked toward him; it just so happened that the elevators closer to Song Xuan¡¯s operating room were along the same corridor.


    "Young Mr. Cai?"


    As soon as the elevator doors opened for Cai Xun, Assistant Li had already spotted him. However, with no particr rtionship to speak of between them, Assistant Li didn¡¯t feel like initiating any greetings.


    If it weren¡¯t forck of a better option, Assistant Li wouldn¡¯t have engaged with him at all.


    "Assistant Li, I heard Madam was undergoing surgery here, so I thought I¡¯d drop by to check on her," Cai Xun offered an exnation, though it was clearly meaningless.


    Assistant Li didn¡¯t even bother to parse the intent behind the statement.


    Particrly since the rtionship between Song Xuan and Gu Qixiao remained shrouded in mystery, even after three to four years of serving by Gu Qixiao¡¯s side, Assistant Li couldn¡¯t ascertain whether there was anything truly between them.


    However, given Gu Qixiao¡¯s consistent attitude of refusal,bined with his past demeanor toward Ji Yu, which was markedly different from how he treated Song Xuan...


    Although Gu Qixiao and Ji Yu had never met in person, the fact that Gu Qixiao referred to her as "Madam" every time he instructed something spoke volumes about the distinction in how he viewed Ji Yupared to Song Xuan.


    Since Cai Xun was evidently trying to cut corners, Assistant Li couldn¡¯t be bothered to say much.


    "By the way, Assistant Li, I wanted to ask about President Gu..."


    Assistant Li¡¯s face, usually calm, grew instantly dark when Cai Xun broached this subject.


    For a minor manager of onepany to casually inquire into the affairs of anotherpany¡¯s top executives might seem routine to some, but the Gu family¡¯spany was anything but ordinary.


    Such a question from Cai Xun was doomed to elicit no response.


    Noticing the change in Assistant Li¡¯s expression, Cai Xun not only felt his own family might have acted too hastily but regretted raising such a question in the first ce.


    No matter how small Cai Xun¡¯s rolepared to Assistant Li¡¯s position, this stark disparity couldn¡¯t be glossed over.


    Swallowing nervously, Cai Xun¡¯s legs trembled uncontrobly, to the point where the faint sound of them quaking could be heard in the increasingly silent hallway.


    "I, I..."


    "Perhaps Young Mr. Cai hasn¡¯t worked with apany of the Gu family¡¯s stature before, so I¡¯ll remind you this once," Assistant Li cut him off sharply, leaving his words choked and rendering Cai Xun as meek as a quail.


    "The Gu family¡¯spany is nothing like a small workshop such as Canning Group. No one is permitted to pry into the movements of top executives, especially President Gu."


    Anyone with even a shred of intelligence could pick up on Assistant Li¡¯s meaning. Offering this final piece of advice, Assistant Li left without even sparing Cai Xun a nce.


    "Onest bit of counsel, Young Mr. Cai: focus more on improving yourpany¡¯s professional standards. As for other matters... you¡¯re on your own."


    Left alone, all Cai Xun could do was wait helplessly outside the operating room. Inside, the long and arduous cosmetic procedure continued, even though the lead surgeoncked confidence in his own abilities.


    Gaining satisfaction from crafting something like Ji Yu¡¯s face?


    He wasn¡¯t an idiot!


    Standing there in the operating room, staring at Song Xuan¡¯s heavily tubed body, the head surgeon found himself momentarily dazed. His earlier assured derations from a few days ago now only added to the mounting pressure in his chest.


    Just days ago, in his office, Song Xuan sat across from him while Cai Xun hovered at her side like apdog.


    "Are you sure there won¡¯t be any problems, Doctor Song?"


    Although Song Xuan desperately wished to possess a face as stunning as Ji Yu¡¯s, having endured numerous instances of excruciating pain in the past, she still cared deeply about her own appearance.


    To her, the surgeon, addressed as Doctor Song, exuded an aura of unwavering confidence, boldly proiming:


    "Rest assured, Miss Song. I am a distinguished graduate of medical school and guarantee that once the surgery isplete, you¡¯ll have a face you¡¯ll be satisfied with."

 Chapter 22 Surgery Failure

    <h4>Chapter 22: Chapter 22 Surgery Failure</h4>


    Although he had been full of confidence when he promised Song Xuan earlier, Doctor Song was all too aware of the limits of his own medical skills.


    Looking at the situation now, it was clear this would be the Waterloo of his lengthy medical career.


    Despite such concerns, Doctor Song ultimately decided toplete the surgery.


    After all, Waterloo was merely aparative notion¡ªhis skills during his school days were far inferior to his junior sister¡¯s, so such an oue was hardly surprising.


    Having steeled himself to finish the operation, Doctor Song hurried back to his office after telling Cai Xun that everything was fine.


    As soon as he entered, Doctor Song copsed to the ground.


    "Thank goodness the operation is at least done..."


    Even after the procedure, Doctor Song was acutely aware that, in the eyes of the patient, this surgery was destined to be deemed a failure.


    Especially since just before entering the operating room he¡¯d caught sight of Gu Qixiao, a prominent figure in the Beijing circle¡ªhe feared his very life might be in jeopardy.


    Despite the sheer terror, Doctor Song¡¯s mind continued to churn quickly.


    But just as he was wavering, unsure what to do next, a ringing phone ended up changing the course of his fate...


    It was three dayster when Song Xuan learned her surgery had failed, as the need for postoperative rest had left her with few chances to use her phone and contact Gu Qixiao.


    In the hospital room, only Song Xuan, Cai Xun, and Cai Xun¡¯s assistant sat facing each other in silence.


    After multiple failed attempts to run into Gu Qixiao at the hospital, Cai Xun had finally decided to send his assistant on her own the following day.


    No matter what, the assistant was at least somewhat attractive¡ªif by chance Gu Qixiao appeared someday while she was present, it might even help secure additional business opportunities for thepany.


    With this idea in mind, Cai Xun prepared to wait until Song Xuan had her stitches removed before heading home for a well-deserved sleep¡ªand perhaps reconnecting with his long-ignored girlfriend.


    Especially since he hadn¡¯t seen Feng Qinqin in so many days, and he still couldn¡¯t forget the sensation of that night with her...


    Sitting off to the side, engrossed in thoughts of Feng Qinqin, Cai Xun¡¯s face was a study inplex emotions; on one hand, he savored his girlfriend¡¯s beauty like a feast, while on the other, he seethed inwardly over her headstrong temperament.


    Odd distractions like these were what kept Cai Xun from feeling overly bored, even as the time ticked down until Doctor Song arrived to remove Song Xuan¡¯s bandages.


    Meanwhile, the assistant found herself the object of Song Xuan¡¯s resentment due to her pretty features¡ªthis hostility colored every word exchanged between them.


    Caught between the two, the clueless assistant seemed pitiful, but thankfully Doctor Song arrived in the room before long.


    "Miss Song, how¡¯s your recoverying along?"


    Striving to maintain an air of mystery, Song Xuan had avoided looking at her reflection whenever medical staff checked for inmmation or rejection symptoms.


    She¡¯d even refrained from using her phone or texting Gu Qixiao, except for briefly contacting him yesterday¡ªall for the sake of unveiling a wless face when the bandages finally came off.


    But she hadn¡¯t anticipated that, when the moment truly came, everything would veer off course from her expectations...


    Cai Xun and the assistant watched from beside her as the medical staff slowly began removing her bandages, bit by bit revealing a rather pretty face.


    Song Xuan¡¯s face was undoubtedly much more attractive now than before the surgery, but whenpared to the photo she had given Doctor Song, the end result fell far short of her standards.


    "How is it?"


    Even though Gu Qixiao wasn¡¯t here in person, Song Xuan¡¯s anticipation for her new face hadn¡¯t diminished.


    Her expression radiated excitement as she looked around at the others, her smiling lips barely able to contain her joy.


    However, when she noticed the mixed emotions on everyone¡¯s faces, Song Xuan felt as though her world was crumbling.


    "Is it ugly? Or is it..." Unwilling to ept the worst, Song Xuan¡¯s expression quickly shifted from happiness to disbelief.


    Before she could lose control entirely, the nurse beside her flipped over the mirror she¡¯d prepared in advance.


    Seeing her own reflection for the first time, Song Xuan went utterly mad.


    "No! This isn¡¯t the face I wanted! This isn¡¯t the face I asked for!"


    Watching Song Xuan break down, Cai Xun immediately signaled his assistant to slip away.


    After all, he was only here in hopes of meeting Gu Qixiao for business reasons¡ªto pad his own wallet.


    Song Xuan¡¯s ruined face had nothing to do with him, but he certainly didn¡¯t want to be the target of her crazed outbursts.


    Having visited the hospital several days in a row, Cai Xun had gained some insight into Song Xuan¡¯s vtile temper¡ªhis initial impression of this Mrs. Gu as in-looking had grown warped over time.


    Although Cai Xun managed to flee the hospital room, he wasn¡¯t lucky enough to avoid bumping into Assistant Li just outside.


    Assistant Li had originally been tasked by his boss to check on Song Xuan¡¯s condition, but paused in surprise when he saw Cai Xun, then hurried over.


    From the slightmotion ahead, he sensed something might be amiss.


    Though he¡¯d previously offered cautionary advice to Song Xuan, he hadn¡¯t cared much whether she chose to heed it.


    Still, the distant sound of Song Xuan¡¯s furious screams stirred unease in Assistant Li. He worried that Gu Qixiao, waiting downstairs, might bepelled toe up over some incident.


    After all, right beforeing here, Gu Qixiao had been scolded yet again by Mr. Gu over his decision to cancel the Feng family partnership.


    Gu Qixiao¡¯s thunderous expression clearly bore the warning, "Provoke me and you¡¯ll face ruin," leaving Assistant Li without the courage to disturb him.


    Unfortunately, the worst-case scenario Assistant Li had feared unfolded inside the hospital room¡ªSong Xuan unleashed her fury at whoever came close, hurling whatever was in her grasp.


    By the time Assistant Li rushed in, Song Xuan happened to throw her phone.


    And Assistant Li¡ªjust his luck¡ªcaught it in mid-air.


    The phone didn¡¯t smash to the ground, but as misfortune would have it, it dialed Gu Qixiao.


    Downstairs, Gu Qixiao had been trying to rest, exhausted by both work and the constant tension between himself and Mr. Gu, who was unsatisfied with his recent decisions.


    Although Ji Yu, that woman, was no longer causing trouble in front of him, Gu Qixiao continued toy the me squarely on her.


    "If it weren¡¯t for her reaching out first, none of this would¡¯ve happened to me."


    Just as Gu Qixiao began to rx, his phone vibrated noisily, turning his eased brow back into a tightly furrowed expression.


    ncing at the iing call, Gu Qixiao considered ignoring it¡ªuntil the unmistakable sound of a crazed voice came through from the other end.


    "You must take responsibility for the failed surgery!"

 Chapter 23: Double Plastic Surgery?

    <h4>Chapter 23: Chapter 23: Double stic Surgery?</h4>


    """


    Originally, when Gu Qixiao identally answered the phone, he almost lost his mind upon hearing the other person¡¯s words. It wasn¡¯t out of pity for the other party, but because he felt Song Xuan was being far too unreasonable.


    "It¡¯s really not asfortable as thinking about my ex-wife I haven¡¯t seen in three years," Gu Qixiao thought to himself, suddenly recalling Ji Yu for some reason.


    He didn¡¯t pay much attention to this budding thought in his mind. Considering that there hadn¡¯t been many women in his life recently, he naturally regarded it as a normal urrence.


    However, after hearing the news about Song Xuan¡¯s failed surgery, it was impossible for Gu Qixiao to remain entirely indifferent.


    Still, he absolutely wouldn¡¯t go upstairs tofort Song Xuan. To avoid being too entangled with her, he had been trying every possible way to distance himself.


    Not long after, Gu Qixiao, who had directly hung up on Song Xuan, dialed Assistant Li again. "Wrap up the situation over there ande down quickly."


    "Remember, don¡¯t let her know I came here. If she asks, just say I¡¯ve been busy withpany projects."


    For the first time ever, Gu Qixiao used the excuse of being busy with work to deceive someone¡ªdespite his busy schedule being true¡ªbecause he was more unwilling than ever to face Song Xuan.


    Song Xuan openly admired him, but he didn¡¯t have any romantic feelings for her, let alone now, when she had grown even more unhinged.


    Following Gu Qixiao¡¯s instructions, Assistant Li dealt with everything as quickly as possible. Despite being forced to administer a sedative injection to calm the hysterical Song Xuan, no one present¡ªincluding Assistant Li¡ªescaped her deranged revenge spree.


    Every single person bore scratches and wounds on their faces and bodies, and several female nurses were bleeding heavily from cuts on their arms due to objects Song Xuan had randomly hurled.


    "Doctor Song, if anythinges up, please contact me immediately."


    "Of course. Given Miss Song¡¯s current condition, as a doctor, I feel deeply distressed. We¡¯ll investigate the reasons thoroughly and inform President Gu as soon as possible."


    Having been advised after the operation on how to handle things, Doctor Song remainedposed. He looked at Assistant Li with a calm but serious expression.


    Clearly, he intended to seek justice for Song Xuan.


    Aftermunicating with Doctor Song, Assistant Li headed downstairs to meet Gu Qixiao.


    "Is everything handled?"


    Once he heard Assistant Li had mostly resolved the situation, Gu Qixiao ordered him to take him to Moon.


    At that moment, in the Moon¡¯s VIP suite, Feng Qinqin was still wild and unruly in the VVIP booth.


    Ji Yu stood nearby with an icy expression, ring at Cai Xun outside the door, her gaze full of disgust.


    "Who told you toe here?"


    Hearing Ji Yu¡¯s questioning tone, Cai Xun let out an embarrassed chuckle. "I noticed Qinqin hasn¡¯t been feeling well recently. Thepany was too busy for a while, but now that things have settled down, I came to make it up to her."


    Saying "too busy" so lightly, Cai Xun thought such words would easily clear up the misunderstanding.


    But unexpectedly, Feng Qinqin froze upon seeing him, immediately halting her erratic tossing of dice that moments ago had seemed so entertaining.


    "Cai Xun? That scumbag?!"


    "Qinqin..." Hearing Feng Qinqin call him a scumbag, Cai Xun pulled a strained smile.


    If not for Ji Yu¡¯s murderous re, Cai Xun would surely have rushed to hug Feng Qinqin right then and there.


    Now, faced with Ji Yu¡¯s lethal stare, he could do nothing but keep apologizing and pleading for Feng Qinqin¡¯s forgiveness.


    "Qinqin, I was really wrong."


    "I¡¯ve been busy with work these past few weeks, you know I¡¯ve always been nning for our future together."


    "Qinqin, I just didn¡¯t want people to say I¡¯m a man who only lives off a woman¡¯s wealth."


    As Ji Yu attended to the now-hyperactive Feng Qinqin beside her, she watched as Cai Xun staged an borate and remorseful disy at the suite¡¯s door.


    Truth be told, Ji Yu had always regarded Cai Xun with indifference. But since Feng Qinqin had deeply loved her boyfriend all along, Ji Yu had refrained from intervening too much in their rtionship.


    After all, people often say romantic rtionships are a matter between two individuals. Since Feng Qinqin chose Cai Xun as her boyfriend, she should ept both his virtues and ws.


    As her close friend, Ji Yu could remind her asionally, but beyond that, her role was limited topanionship orfort.


    Initially nning to continue enjoying the drama until Feng Qinqin was done ying, Ji Yu felt the vibration from her new work phone, and after signaling to Feng Qinqin, she stepped aside to answer the call.


    "Sister Yu, President Gu called again."


    Upon hearing Tian say the call was from Gu Qixiao, Ji Yu¡¯s frosty face turned irritated.


    Not letting Tian speak further, Ji Yu quickly cut him off.


    "Have I not made myself clear? Do not contact me about his matters. Wait until tomorrow at work to talk."


    Ji Yu¡¯s impression of Gu Qixiao had never been favorable from the start. Married to her for three years, he had never once returned home, and on top of that, he kept a mistress outside.


    Now, adding insult to injury, he kept reaching out to her due to Mistress Song Xuan.


    Apart from his arrogance, he was downright unreasonable.


    Moreover, beyond these personal issues, Gu Qixiao had abruptly terminated Gus Group¡¯s coboration with the Feng family, leaving them struggling in numerous projects.


    If not for the Feng family¡¯s financial stability, they would likely have dered bankruptcy within just two days of Gu Qixiao¡¯s termination.


    If that were to happen, Ji Yu couldn¡¯t even begin to imagine the consequences.


    After finishing her response, Ji Yu decisively hung up the call, cutting off Tian mid-sentence with her assertiveness.


    Watching Ji Yu hang up, Tian, on the other side of the call, was almost overwhelmed with panic.


    Not knowing what else to do, he continuously redialed Ji Yu¡¯s number in desperation.


    Having hung up, Ji Yu was adjusting her emotions, when she returned to the VVIP suite only to find the usually lively room eerily quiet.


    If not for the assortment of drinks scattered around the tables and counters, Ji Yu might have thought she¡¯d wandered into an alternate dimension.


    "Strange, where did Qinqin go..." Ji Yu murmured softly as she looked around, trying to locate Feng Qinqin. But before she could say much, someone grabbed her wrist.


    Instinctively lifting her leg to kick, Ji Yu sent her captor stumbling a certain distance away. Just as she was about to check on the situation¡ª


    Tian¡¯s incessant calling hadn¡¯t ceased!


    Expecting Tian to eventually stop, Ji Yu realized he wasn¡¯t giving up. Feeling somewhat helpless, she begrudgingly answered the call onest time.


    On the line, Tian immediately blurted everything out, desperate to prevent Ji Yu from hanging up again.


    "Sister Yu, President Gu¡¯s people said Miss Song ran off and got a second cosmetic surgery!"


    "What? A second surgery?!"


    """

 Chapter 24: It’s the previous hospital’s issue

    <h4>Chapter 24: Chapter 24: It¡¯s the previous hospital¡¯s issue</h4>


    When Ji Yu learned that Song Xuan had ignored her medical advice and gone for a second cosmetic surgery, how could she still have the mind to care about where Feng Qinqin was?


    Although From New Clinic had been in operation for years, and the client¡¯s financial status had always been selective, there was something Ji Yu had always firmly believed in.


    The clients of From New must strictly adhere to medical instructions¡ªany customer who failed to do so would receive no aftercare services for any subsequent issues.


    Though Ji Yu held no favorable impression of Gu Qixiao and Song Xuan as individuals, she reminded herself to stayposed, considering they were still her clients.


    "Since she didn¡¯t follow our requirements, let¡¯s handle it ording to the rules."


    On the other side of the line, Tian, having received Ji Yu¡¯s reply, prepared to address the Song Xuan matter by the book. Yet his hesitation earlier stemmed from Gu Qixiao¡¯s influence.


    None of the From New employees fully understood why their boss hadn¡¯t returned to the hospital in the past three years, but as an assistant, Tian still had to weigh the reputation of the Gu family.


    Ji Yu¡¯s response was like a stabilizing shot, giving Tian the courage to stand up to the Gus Group.


    After hanging up, Tian quickly contacted Assistant Li, who had inquired earlier, and directly refused their request in the follow-up call.


    Meanwhile, Ji Yu finally had the opportunity to take a good look at who the man from earlier actually was.


    Previously, when Tian had been making repeated calls, Ji Yu had instinctively reacted, leveraging her medical knowledge to find a pressure point on his body andnd a swift kick. Now that the issue had been resolved, she indeed needed to see who this man was.


    Especially since she was in a foul mood¡ªshe hoped it wasn¡¯t someone casually looking to provoke her.


    As Ji Yu pondered how to deal with the man in front of her, she moved closer.


    "Let me see who dares to provoke a doctor for no reason."


    While Ji Yu wasn¡¯t a traditional life-saving doctor, she was still a top medical school graduate.


    The notion that someone had the audacity to ambush her during a phone call ignited an uncontainable anger within Ji Yu.


    But that anger surged even stronger when she saw Gu Qixiao¡¯s face clearly...


    Gu Qixiao, tipsy and drowsy, had initially wanted to demand an exnation when someone barged into his private room. He hadn¡¯t expected that as soon as he reached out to grab the person¡¯s wrist, she¡¯d retaliate with a kick.


    Ji Yu¡¯s blow sobered him almost instantly, clearing away the remnants of his drunkenness. Holding the spot where she¡¯d kicked him, the pain thudded faintly.


    If anyone else had witnessed it, they would have silently thanked Ji Yu for showing some restraint.


    The spot she had targeted would terrify any man.


    "Why are you here?"


    "Where¡¯s Qinqin?"


    Not recognizing Feng Qinqin, Gu Qixiao stood stunned by Ji Yu¡¯s reaction.


    He was drinking peacefully here¡ªshe had barged in on her own ord.


    And now she had the nerve to question him?


    "What are you talking about? Who¡¯s Qinqin?"


    Teetering between sobriety and intoxication, Gu Qixiao¡¯s gaze fixated on Ji Yu, shifting repeatedly. But after a few seconds, he noticed something unusual about himself.


    Last time it was because Song Xuan had spiked his drink¡ªwhat was it this time?


    With full awareness of the situation, Gu Qixiao, unwilling to embarrass himself in front of Ji Yu, suddenly sneered.


    "Doctor Ji barging in without even knocking¡ªare you here to throw yourself at me?"


    Equally bewildered, Ji Yu stood frozen, trying to grasp the situation.


    She hadn¡¯t been drinking, but the issue with Song Xuan¡¯s second surgery had left her fuming.


    Even now, unclear as to what had transpired, one thing was certain¡ªthis was her ex-husband¡¯s little mistress.


    Now the mistress had an issue, and the ex-husband dared to tease her here?


    Who on earth could tolerate such a thing?


    Much less Ji Yu, whose unresolved resentment toward Gu Qixiao lingered to this day.


    Although still in the dark about the full situation, Ji Yu aimed one more jab at Gu Qixiao before abruptly turning to leave.


    It was only after stepping out of the private room that she realized, in her anger, she¡¯d gone the wrong way.


    Her and Feng Qinqin¡¯s private room was just next door!


    Even knowing it was her mistake, Ji Yu had no intention of returning to apologize to Gu Qixiao.


    If he hadn¡¯t grabbed her wrist out of nowhere, how would this have happened?


    Of course, it wouldn¡¯t have!


    ming Gu Qixiao entirely in her mind, Ji Yu strode back to the VVIP room without hesitation.


    However, just as Ji Yu pushed open the door, the originally approaching Wu Beite due to work¡ªarrived, narrowly missing the dramatic intersection between Gu Qixiao and Ji Yu.


    Opening the door, Ji Yu froze upon not seeing Feng Qinqin and Cai Xun inside. Had they already made up while she had been taking a call?


    Worried for her friend, Ji Yu nervously called Feng Qinqin.


    The call connected quickly¡ªand Feng Qinqin¡¯s voice came through the line.


    "Yuyu, I¡¯m heading out first!"


    "You... be safe on the way home~"


    Judging by Feng Qinqin¡¯s slurred tone, it wasn¡¯t hard to tell she was drunk. Hearing Cai Xun¡¯s voice reminding her to be careful, Ji Yu promptly hung up.


    Since Cai Xun was present, Ji Yu decided she didn¡¯t need to worry about Feng Qinqin anymore.


    Given the circumstances, she might as well head back to rest. Encountering Gu Qixiao hadpletely frayed her nerves¡ªshe could only anticipate the headache tomorrow would bring.


    Although Song Xuan¡¯s second surgery issue should have been resolved easily, following Tian¡¯s contact with Assistant Li, it wasn¡¯t long before Assistant Li received a call from the hospital.


    Doctor Song¡¯s anxious voice rang out, jolting Assistant Li, who¡¯d been resting at home, into urgent action.


    "Assistant Li, Miss Song has a situation!"


    "What? Alright, alright, I¡¯m on my way right now."


    Knowing his boss wasn¡¯t willing to handle this personally, Assistant Li immediately rushed toward the hospital while simultaneously messaging Gu Qixiao about the matter.


    On the way, he reached out to contacts stationed at the hospital for information.


    Upon learning that Song Xuan had merely suffered additional disfigurement from a failed surgery, Assistant Li¡¯s racing heart gradually settled. At least there was no life-threatening situation.


    Back at the hospital in Song Xuan¡¯s ward...


    The medical staff cautiously edged away from her, rmed by her frenzied outburst.


    Although there were no particrly dangerous objects around, Song Xuan¡¯s unhinged behavior was severely disrupting hospital operations.


    When Doctor Song returned to the ward, the staff swarmed around him in a frenzy.


    Feeling the pressure of being looked at as everyone¡¯s backbone, Doctor Song hesitantly spoke up.


    Following the prompts given over the phone earlier, he shifted all responsibility onto Ji Yu¡¯s team at From New.


    "Miss Song, we¡¯ve already contacted President Gu. He¡¯s rushing over as quickly as possible."


    The mention of Gu Qixiao¡¯s imminent arrival calmed Song Xuan significantly.


    However, the thought of being seen by Gu Qixiao in her current state contorted her expression further in despair.


    "No! Absolutely not!"


    "Additionally, our examination report indicates that Miss Song¡¯s condition urred due to nonpliance during the prior surgery¡ªit was malpractice by the other hospital that caused this..."

 Chapter 25 Not Following Doctor’s Orders, No Responsibility Assumed

    <h4>Chapter 25: Chapter 25 Not Following Doctor¡¯s Orders, No Responsibility Assumed</h4>


    "What did you just say?"


    The intense pain on her face was unbearable, yet Song Xuan still understood perfectly what Doctor Song meant by his words.


    Doctor Song, seeing her reaction, was momentarily stunned. He thought that perhaps the earlier decision made by *that* person had been a mistake.


    But after a moment of reflection, he wondered if he hadn¡¯t exined things clearly enough?


    "ording to the test report, Miss Song¡¯s facial skin was damaged by chemicalponents, but our hospital does not use any medication containing these chemicals."


    "If Miss Song¡¯s face hadn¡¯t been exposed to any special substances previously, then the likely source of this test result is the hospital where Miss Song had her earlier surgery."


    "Miss Song¡¯s case is rather unique. Our hospital has never encountered such a condition. Maybe Miss Song would need to contact the previous hospital to negotiate and see how treatment can proceed."


    Doctor Song¡¯s words, on the surface, seemed perfectly reasonable. If Ji Yu were standing there as an observer, she might have even apuded his performance.


    Not understanding the hidden truth, Song Xuan assumed the fault indeedy with the previous facility. As she finished listening to Doctor Song, her face, already flushed red from the medication¡¯s reaction, grew even more colorful.


    Just as Song Xuan was about to lose her temper again, Assistant Li finally rushed in hurriedly.


    The moment he walked in, he was startled by Song Xuan¡¯s appearance.


    "Whoa." He eximed briefly and immediately stopped in his tracks, fearing that Song Xuan might cause even more trouble.


    "Doctor Song, what is going on here?"


    Doctor Song, expecting Gu Qixiao to show up instead of just Assistant Li, noticeably rxed when he saw it was only the assistant.


    He repeated everything he had just exined to Song Xuan, even pulling Assistant Li out of the room to hand over the prepared test reports one by one.


    To dispel Assistant Li¡¯s doubts, Doctor Song even circled multiple areas in the report where the numbers didn¡¯t align, meticulously emphasizing them.


    Seeing Doctor Song¡¯s painstakingly careful demeanor, Assistant Li, who had harbored some suspicion, began to think that perhaps the doctor wasn¡¯t lying after all.


    ncing at the test reports in hand, which he couldn¡¯t fully understand, Assistant Li fell into contemtion.


    Noticing this, Doctor Song quickly found an excuse to slip away.


    Unconsciously, his palms, held nervously behind his back, were drenched in sweat.


    If Assistant Li had examined things a little more closely, he would have surely uncovered the discrepancies.


    Once out of the vicinity of the patient¡¯s room, Doctor Song hurried back to his office.


    Opening the door, shutting it, locking it¡ªhis actions were swift and seamless.


    Afterward, just as he had been following that failed surgery, he panted heavily, his trembling hand pulling out his phone from his pocket.


    Despite his fear, he quickly dialed a number.


    "Hello, I did everything you asked me to do."


    It was unclear what the person on the other end of the line was saying, but shortly after speaking, Doctor Song hung up.


    Before ending the call, he muttered absentmindedly, "From now on, we¡¯re done¡ªeverything is settled between us."


    However, Doctor Song had no idea that the person on the other end of the call didn¡¯t feel the same way. In fact, they found his words amusing.


    After all, the real show was just beginning.


    Meanwhile, Wu Bei, arriving at the private room, couldn¡¯t help but burst intoughter when he saw Gu Qixiao curled up on the booth sofa.


    "Is this how you wee me?"


    Wu Bei, who had initially felt guilty for beingte,pletely shed that feeling upon seeing Gu Qixiao in such a state. Instead, he couldn¡¯t stopughing.


    After all, no matter how close the two of them were as brothers, there was no scenario in which Gu Qixiao had ever looked this pathetic before.


    And now, all because Wu Bei arrivedte, he had walked into such a scene.


    Annoyed at himself for not showing up sooner, Wu Bei casually sat across from Gu Qixiao and naturally grabbed an unopened bottle of alcohol.


    As for Gu Qixiao, he remained curled up on the opposite side.


    Wu Bei paid it no mind.


    "You¡¯re the big boss of the Gus Group, yet I¡¯mte for just a little while, and you¡¯re already this miserable?"


    Though teasing Gu Qixiao, Wu Bei still asked about what had happened while opening the bottle.


    But Gu Qixiao had no intention of exining. The pain was real, after all.


    Moreover, it was a woman who had left him in this state.


    The thought of Wu Bei finding out made him worry about the humiliation he¡¯d face, so he adamantly refused to say a word.


    "Get lost."


    With just those words, Wu Bei dropped the topic and didn¡¯t push for details about what had happened.


    Wu Bei never did find out why Gu Qixiao had asked him out that night. All he saw was that once Gu Qixiao¡¯s pain subsided a bit, he began downingrge gulps of alcohol.


    Whether the alcohol was strong or not, he gulped it down ss after ss.


    This left Wu Beipletely puzzled. Worried that Gu Qixiao might drink too much, he didn¡¯t dare keep up with him.


    That night, Gu Qixiao did indeed drink too much. Once drunk, he passed out directly.


    Wu Bei had no choice but to call his assistant to help carry Gu Qixiao back to his ce. After all, this had be their usual routine.


    Whenever Wu Bei was around, it always fell to him to clean up after Gu Qixiao¡¯s drunken antics.


    If not for Wu Bei being engaged long before his debut, his fans might have been shipping him with the Gus Group instead.


    ...


    The next day, Gu Qixiao was awakened by a call from Assistant Li. Only then did he see the messages sent by Assistant Li the night before.


    Through his slightly blurred vision, he managed to make out the message on his phone.


    [Boss, there¡¯s a rejection reaction with Miss Song. The hospital¡¯s doctor said it seems to be rted to Congxin.]


    "Congxin again..."


    Holding his aching, hangover-induced head, Gu Qixiao wasn¡¯t particrly surprised to find himself at Wu Bei¡¯s ce after getting up.


    His mind was flooded with images from the night before¡ªJi Yu kicking him to the ground, and then adding another kick before she left!


    And now, Assistant Li hade to tell him that Song Xuan¡¯s face was somehow connected to Congxin again. It left Gu Qixiao with an even deeper headache.


    Ever since he had met Ji Yu, it felt like his luck had taken a nosedive.


    It was as if Ji Yu was cursed; anyone who crossed paths with her would end up worse off.


    Despite these thoughts, Gu Qixiao still called Assistant Li to let him know his current location.


    After Assistant Li picked him up, the two didn¡¯t head to the Gus Group but instead made their way directly to Congxin.


    That morning, Ji Yu, already aware of Song Xuan¡¯s second cosmetic surgery, predicted that Gu Qixiao would inevitablye looking for her today. She waited at the hospital in advance.


    Sure enough, when Gu Qixiao and Assistant Li arrived at Congxin, Ji Yu didn¡¯t hesitate or hesitate and had Tian bring the two in directly.


    Gu Qixiao, who thought resolving the issue would be simple, found himself overwhelmed with anger the moment Ji Yu¡¯s office door opened.


    When Ji Yu saw him and Assistant Li, she didn¡¯t even bother to ask any questions. She left them with just one sentence:


    "You can leave now. I already told you¡ªif you don¡¯t follow the doctor¡¯s advice, I¡¯m not responsible."

 Chapter 26: After the Modification - 26 The Ex-Husband is Really Unlucky

    <h4>Chapter 26: After the Modification: Chapter 26 The Ex-Husband is Really Unlucky</h4>


    "Dr. Ji..."


    After hearing Ji Yu¡¯s words, Gu Qixiao¡¯s face quickly darkened with displeasure.


    Assistant Li, catching the hint, proactively spoke up, but was interrupted by the assistant standing to the side before he could say much.


    Soon after, Tian handed a surgical consent form to Assistant Li.


    When Assistant Li saw that the patient¡¯s name on the consent form was Song Xuan, he flipped it open and took a look.


    As he reviewed the consent form, Ji Yu provided supplementary exnations at the right time.


    "If you don¡¯t believe me, you can check the third-tost use on the third page of the consent form. It explicitly states: after receiving treatment at ReNew, patients cannot go to other hospitals for additional cosmetic surgery or treatment."


    Originally skeptical, Assistant Li¡¯s expression changed as his eyesnded on the bolded and erged text.


    But recalling Dr. Song¡¯s im that ReNew¡¯s medications might have had issues, Assistant Li casually handed the consent form to Gu Qixiao.


    At the same time, he also fetched Song Xuan¡¯s testing report from the apanying document folder and handed it to Gu Qixiao, exining:


    "Boss, this is the testing report Dr. Song sent mest night. Because of this report, we suspected Miss Song¡¯s facial issues might be closely rted to ReNew."


    Even though Assistant Li spoke quietly, Ji Yu¡¯s office was small. Naturally, both Ji Yu and Tian overheard his words.


    The implication was clear¡ªif Song Xuan¡¯s face had problems now, it must be due to errors in her surgery or medication from ReNew.


    If not for those reasons, Song Xuan¡¯s face wouldn¡¯t be experiencing such issues.


    Ji Yu and her assistant Tian were no fools; they understood exactly what he meant.


    But while such incidents could happen at other hospitals, they weren¡¯t even remotely possible at ReNew.


    Ji Yu despised theck of respect for people¡¯s faces. She was extremely strict not only in choosing doctors for ReNew but also in regards to the surgical process and medication used.


    To put it nicely, this was about being responsible to the patients; to put it simply, ensuring their faces looked good was the only way to avoid medical disputes.


    Ji Yu wasn¡¯t the kind of person to cut corners. When founding ReNew, she made sure all guidelines were rigorously established.


    Any vition would result in legal consequences, and the offender would never have the chance to work at ReNew again.


    Compared to other hospitals, ReNew offered significantly betterpensations. Many people fought tooth and nail to join, so naturally, they wouldn¡¯t sacrifice their future livelihoods for minor gains.


    Because of this, Ji Yu was confident there was no problem at ReNew.


    Besides, the person who performed Song Xuan¡¯s surgery was her.


    As the founder of ReNew, Ji Yu rarely epted surgical cases.


    For one thing, securing her service was extremely difficult; for another, Ji Yu¡¯s requirements for her patients were notoriously strict.


    Take Song Xuan¡¯s case¡ªfor example, patients who underwent surgeries with Ji Yu were prohibited from seeking secondary treatment from other hospitals. Any adjustments had to go through Ji Yu first for maintenance or repair.


    Ji Yu¡¯s stringent requirements for patients were matched by her choice of medication, which often differed from the hospital¡¯s general stock.


    Medication for Ji Yu¡¯s surgeries was handled by Tian. Whenever ReNew purchased medical supplies, it specifically procured a batch of highly advanced drugs for Ji Yu¡¯s use.


    Since Ji Yu¡¯s surgical cases were highly specialized, she rarely used medications from ReNew¡¯smunal inventory.


    Even if ReNew¡¯s medications had issues, they wouldn¡¯t affect Ji Yu¡¯s patients.


    "President Gu suspects ReNew has problems, then?"


    Observing Gu Qixiao¡¯s expression after Assistant Li¡¯s exnation, Ji Yu secretly griped but outwardly maintained a tone of concern.


    Listening to Ji Yu¡¯s polite inquiry, Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t dither.


    "That¡¯s for Dr. Ji to determine. Naturally, I hope your hospital has no issues."


    Gu Qixiao¡¯s words sounded ambiguous, leaving his emotions and stance difficult to discern.


    In truth, Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t care much whether ReNew had issues; he just wanted the situation resolved quickly.


    After all, for him, Song Xuan¡¯s problem had to be fixed¡ªor he¡¯d continue being entangled with her.


    Thinking about the anguish of being ensnared by Song Xuan, Gu Qixiao frowned deeply.


    But in Tian¡¯s eyes, the scenario had apletely different vor. Having never interacted with someone of Gu Qixiao¡¯s stature, Tian only felt this powerhouse was furious.


    Tian grew increasingly apprehensive, an emotion Ji Yu effortlessly picked up on.


    Watching her assistant¡¯s fearfulness, Ji Yu casually found an excuse to send Tian away before continuing her standoff with Gu Qixiao.


    "If President Gu is concerned about ReNew¡¯s medical facilities, I can arrange for someone to show you footage from the mechanical room. However, the mechanical room is off-limits to unauthorized personnel. I hope President Gu understands."


    "If President Gu doubts the medications, you may rest assured. The drugs I use for surgeries differ from those stored in the hospital¡¯s pharmacy; every selection employs the finest materials and undergoes inspections before and after each surgery. If President Gu has lingering concerns, you can proceed with tests."


    Despite Gu Qixiao¡¯s ominous demeanor, Ji Yu maintained an air ofpleteposure throughout.


    Assistant Li, observing her poise, couldn¡¯t help but internally apud hermanding presence.


    Yet seeing his boss¡¯s gloomy state made him too scared to utter a single word.


    Outwardly, Ji Yu appeared collected; inwardly, she couldn¡¯t stop marveling at her ex-husband¡¯s pitiful state.


    "This ex-husband is truly unlucky¡ªhis precious little lover finally looks good, and now she¡¯s messing things up for him."


    Just as Ji Yu was about to mock Gu Qixiao for not trusting her skill and instead seeking outside assistance for cosmetic surgery, she found the situation both frustrating and amusing.


    Especially considering the hospital that dared to take on her patient.


    Even before marrying, Ji Yu had firmly established a rule that her patients couldn¡¯t randomly undergo secondary surgeries at other hospitals. Ji Yu¡¯s professionalpetence was so renowned that even surgeons from top cosmetic hospitals shared her alma mater.


    Because of this, it was rare for prominent cosmetic hospitals to ept Ji Yu¡¯s patients.


    After all, these professionals were well aware that no matter how skilled they were, they couldn¡¯t hold a candle to Ji Yu herself.


    Ji Yu¡¯s prowess as a surgeon had surpassed her mentor¡¯s during her university years, earning repeated praise from him.


    Meanwhile, Gu Qixiao¡ªinitially thinking ahead about how to persuade Ji Yu into taking on Song Xuan¡¯s secondary surgery¡ªhadn¡¯t yet figured out his approach when a knock on the door disrupted everyone inside.


    Followed by Tian¡¯s voice: "Sister Yu, something¡¯s wrong! The Immortal Heartthrob has been in a car ident!"

 Chapter 27: Dion’s Incident!

    <h4>Chapter 27: Chapter 27: Dion¡¯s Incident!</h4>


    When Tian mentioned that the "ageless male god" had been in a car ident, Ji Yu didn¡¯t fully react. Over the past three years of marriage, she hadn¡¯t paid much attention to the entertainment industry or any other circles.


    Throughout those three years, she had been focused on improving herself, constantly striving to be a proper Mrs. Gu.


    Now hearing the term "ageless male god," her facial expression spoke volumes.


    Seeing Ji Yu¡¯s puzzled demeanor, Tian immediately understood that Ji Yu had no idea who the "ageless male god" was, so she began exining.


    "The ageless male god is the well-known celebrity Dion from the entertainment industry. Rumor has it he got into a car ident while racing, and right now his fate is uncertain."


    Even though Ji Yu now understood who Tian was referring to, she still felt that this matter had little to do with her.


    But before Tian could borate further, Ji Yu¡¯s phone suddenly rang.


    As the ringtone yed, Ji Yu nced at the phone disy, gestured to the people around her, and stepped aside to answer the call.


    Soon, Feng Qinqin¡¯s voice echoed through the hallway.


    "Yuyu, Dion¡¯s been in an ident!"


    Ji Yu¡¯s office was not located in the newly renovated work area, so when Feng Qinqin shouted into the phone, her voice was amplified even more.


    "Huh? Dion? Who¡¯s that..."


    Ji Yu muttered in response to Feng Qinqin while racking her brain to figure out who Dion was.


    She felt like the name was vaguely familiar, but she couldn¡¯t quite recall where she had heard it before.


    "It¡¯s Dion, the celebrity¡ªthe ageless male god!"


    At the mention of the "ageless male god," Ji Yu suddenly connected the dots.


    "Oh, right, I know. Tian just told me about it earlier."


    On the other end of the line, upon hearing Ji Yu¡¯s rather indifferent tone, Feng Qinqin was almost ready to crawl through the satellite connection and give Ji Yu a smack or two.


    "What kind of reaction is that? We¡¯re talking about Dion¡ªthe ageless male god! Dion!"


    Ji Yu understood the importance celebrities held in the eyes of their fans in the entertainment world. She had frequently encountered people who wanted her to make them look like their idols through stic surgery.


    But Ji Yu had always refused such requests.


    Not for any other reason, but simply because she didn¡¯t advocate for such procedures.


    To Ji Yu, the purpose of stic surgery was to give people confidence. Everyone has the right to pursue beauty, but in her view, the most beautiful thing about a person is always their natural skin.


    When external causes lead to damage to the skin and result in altered appearances, it is eptable to restore those features.


    However, if someone just wanted to pursue an idol¡¯s appearance by altering their face, Ji Yu would never approve.


    If someone pressed her for an exnation, Ji Yu would say it¡¯s because she ced a higher value on more authentic and natural things.


    The natural state is a reflection of health, and she didn¡¯t believe every surgical incision woulde without adverse effects.


    But, given her role in managing From New, this mindset only applied to her own consultations.


    As for other doctors, as long as they had technical expertise and ethical professionalism, Ji Yu had no objections to stic surgeries they chose to perform.


    After all, From New had to support many employees and naturally relied on patients and clients for ie.


    Even so, hearing everyone around her talking about the ageless male god left Ji Yu a little dazed.


    "I understand, but why are all of youing to me about this?"


    Ji Yu was straightforward, voicing her confusion without hesitation.


    Feng Qinqin sighed and tugged her lips into a faint grin of resignation.


    Though she had been busy with matters regarding the Feng family recently, she hadn¡¯tpletely detached herself from what was happening in the world like Ji Yu seemed to have done.


    Ji Yu¡¯s "none of this concerns me" demeanor left Feng Qinqin somewhat exasperated.


    Still, knowing Ji Yu¡¯s personality, she couldn¡¯t say it was all that surprising.


    Despite her slight frustration, Feng Qinqin chose not to beat around the bush.


    She held up her phone, activated the speaker function, and began scrolling through its interface.


    Soon, she sent something over to Ji Yu¡¯s chat screen.


    "I¡¯ve sent you some news articles. Take a look first."


    "Aside from being the so-called ageless male god, Dion is also a renowned racecar driver. Based on the news, his injuries appear to be very serious, and there¡¯s a significant chance his face might be damaged as well..."


    "If the ageless male god loses his face, countless women¡¯s dream husband will vanish because of a single car ident."


    While listening to Feng Qinqin¡¯s words, Ji Yu started reading through the news articles Feng Qinqin had sent her. The images were graphic, the news chilling. Even the victim¡¯s face was fully pixted out of respect.


    Ji Yu finally understood why everyone wasing to her about this.


    However, since Dion¡¯s representatives hadn¡¯t reached out to her yet, Ji Yu wasn¡¯t nning to contact his agency on her own.


    After all, being too proactive could lead toplications.


    Moreover, Dion was the ageless male god with an enormous fandom.


    Imagining a scenario where she could be drowned in spit from Dion¡¯s fans made Ji Yu nauseous. Shaking her head with distaste, she tried to banish the thought.


    Just as Feng Qinqin seemed ready to continue speaking, Ji Yu interrupted her.


    "If his agency contacts me, I¡¯ll do my best to help him recover."


    Ji Yu¡¯s intentions were clear: she wouldn¡¯t reach out to Dion¡¯s agency herself. However, if they reached out to her, she would certainly do everything in her power to assist Dion.


    Being a stic surgeon meant her role was to restore patients¡¯ confidence through their appearance.


    While she couldn¡¯t guarantee everything, Ji Yu was confident she could maximize Dion¡¯s chances of regaining his looks, provided his physical health was stable.


    Ji Yu exchanged some casual remarks with Feng Qinqin about the situation with her family¡¯spany before hanging up.


    Since the Gus Group had severed ties with the Feng family, Feng Qinqin had been concerned about her father¡¯s health. Though she would still act nonchnt and carefree when unupied, she had started helping Mr. Feng at the familypany during the daytime.


    Being a high-achieving graduate from a top university, Feng Qinqin had been trained in business management from an early age.


    Although she didn¡¯t aspire to corporate leadership, she wasn¡¯tcking in managerial skills.


    Feeling a pang of regret for not asking Feng Qinqin for updates about Cai Xun earlier, Ji Yu messaged her while simultaneously raising her head, only to find her assistant Tian standing before her.


    "Sister Yu..."


    Ji Yu, knowing she hadn¡¯t said anything unusual just now, was curious about Tian¡¯s odd behavior.


    What Ji Yu didn¡¯t realize was that while Tian had returned to her office, Dion¡¯s agency had already contacted From New.


    It was true¡ªDion¡¯s face had been severely disfigured!


    "If you have something to say, spit it out. Enough of this dawdling."


    "Dion¡¯s agency reached out to From New a short while ago, offering a hefty fee to invite Doctor Ji to restore the ageless male god¡¯s appearance."

 Chapter 28: 80 Million! A Blissful Marriage!

    <h4>Chapter 28: Chapter 28: 80 Million! A Blissful Marriage!</h4>


    Upon hearing that Dion¡¯s agency was prepared to offer a high-paying contract, Ji Yu¡¯s first instinct was to decline.


    Generally speaking, celebrities who offer high fees for her services tend to be far from easy to deal with.


    Thinking this, Ji Yu¡¯s brows instinctively furrowed, and her expression toward Tian became somewhatplicated.


    "Reject it."


    Understanding the reason behind Ji Yu¡¯s refusal, Tian hurriedly called out to stop her just as Ji Yu was about to walk past and leave.


    Ji Yu had a significant principle when it came to treating patients¡ªshe required thorough background checks on public figures to ensure their character was clean.


    As appearance issues typically didn¡¯t pose harmful health effects, Ji Yu allowed more flexibility in choosing her patients but held an even stricter line when it came to poor moral conduct.


    If a patient¡¯s behavior was seriously hical, Ji Yu wouldn¡¯t hesitate to refuse them surgery.


    This standard had been set back when Ji Yu and Gu Qixiao had just gotten married; she was worried that morally dubious patients could implicate her and her marital family. Ever since, Ji Yu had been extraordinarily cautious.


    Even though such concerns no longer applied, the policy had been in ce for so many years that changing it now felt unnecessary.


    Ji Yu thought that problematic patients were bound to bring her trouble. So, upon hearing Dion¡¯s agency¡¯s approach, her immediate reaction was to decline.


    "Sister Yu, Hong has already looked into Dion¡¯s background. He¡¯s just as he appears publicly: confirmed to be married with no extramarital affairs, and he has a son and a daughter with his wife. No issues regarding his character or conduct."


    "Besides, the fee they¡¯re offering is ridiculously high. Dion¡¯s agency said that as long as you agree to perform the surgery, they¡¯ll pay at least eighty million."


    Eighty million! A harmonious and happy marriage!


    After hearing Tian describe Dion¡¯s situation, Ji Yu was stunned. She could hardly believe that a public figure like Dion could stay so true to himself.


    Looking at the tablet Tian handed over, which detailed Dion¡¯s personal interests, Ji Yu was taken aback.


    Could someone really have this much self-discipline?


    If there was one questionable trait about Dion, it was his overwhelming love for car racing!


    At thirty-seven years old, he was in his prime as a male celebrity. Not to mention, he was still in great shape and maintained a youthful, ageless appearance.


    Such looks could easily outshine many younger actors in today¡¯s entertainment industry!


    And what did he do with them?


    He turned around and threw himself into car racing, even achieving moderate sess in the sport.


    Up to thistestpetition, Dion had already won at least three trophies in racing events!


    Seeing Ji Yu¡¯s shifting expressions, Tian couldn¡¯t guess what she was thinking.


    She hesitated, her voice full of tentative probing.


    "Sister Yu... So, should we take this case?"


    "Take it."


    "Alright, I¡¯ll go decline it now."


    After seeing how Ji Yu closed the tablet with an expression of extreme disgust, Tian assumed she had outright refused the case.


    But just as Tian began forming a justification for the rejection, Ji Yu¡¯s words left her stunned.


    "Huh?"


    "Huh, what huh? An eighty-million payday isn¡¯t going to walk to us by itself¡ªgo at once!"


    Hearing Ji Yu¡¯s urging, Tian sprang up and ran to respond to Dion¡¯s agency.


    Though preparing for a surgery didn¡¯t differ much regardless of the patient, Dion¡¯s reputation as an ¡¯ageless male god¡¯ meant that his racing ident had drawn significant public attention.


    This made it necessary to finalize many details in advance.


    Tian, who usually got flustered meeting bigwigs and even shrank back in Gu Qixiao¡¯s presence, shed all timidity when it came to professional tasks.


    Having worked closely under Ji Yu for years¡ªfollowing her since graduate school¡ªTian had grown into a decent stic surgeon herself. Ji Yu, always inclined to nurture her junior, had kept Tian by her side from the beginning.


    After all, before her divorce from Gu Qixiao, Ji Yu had assumed that she¡¯d eventually have to take a backstage role as a major business owner.


    Training Tian was part of her n to let her prot¨¦g¨¦ take charge one day.


    Now, with circumstances having changed, Ji Yu felt she could leave decisions about Tian¡¯s future up to her.


    Unaware that Ji Yu was already nning her career prospects, Tian dashed back to her assistant¡¯s office to contact Dion¡¯s agency as soon as possible.


    The agency had previouslymunicated that once Doctor Ji made her decision, they should be contacted immediately.


    However, what the agency hadn¡¯t mentioned was that Dion wasn¡¯t currently in ordinary condition.


    The racing ident had caused severe injuries¡ªDion wasn¡¯t even conscious yet.


    Returning to her office, Ji Yu noticed Gu Qixiao sitting there, his expression cold. A moment ago, she¡¯d still had the energy to mock him, but now, with preparations for Dion¡¯s surgery underway, she had no time for such distractions.


    "President Gu, are you waiting here to discuss the next client¡¯s medical case with me?"


    Seeing Gu Qixiao remain unmoved by her words, Ji Yu¡¯s face darkened with irritation.


    "President Gu, didst night ignite a sudden interest in other people¡¯s private affairs?"


    As Ji Yu spoke, her gaze flicked to the spot where she¡¯d kicked him the night before.


    However, to Gu Qixiao, this expression seemed entirely different.


    A face that originally looked indifferent now appeared overly frivolous, further worsening Gu Qixiao¡¯s impression of Ji Yu.


    Standing on the side and oblivious to the subtleties, Assistant Li could only watch as his boss and Doctor Ji exchanged scornful looks. He thought perhaps there was some deep-seated resentment between them.


    After all, why else would someone deliberately forgo such easy money to confront the head of the Gus Group?


    Unable to figure out the underlying conflict, Assistant Li didn¡¯t have time to dwell on it. One sharp re from Ji Yu had Gu Qixiao visibly ufortable.


    Her kick from the previous night had genuinely hurt!


    Without a word, Gu Qixiao got up and left, not even bothering to argue further.


    But as he reached the office door, he realized Assistant Li hadn¡¯t followed. His already stormy expression grew even darker.


    "Assistant Li, are you nning to stay here as Doctor Ji¡¯s personal assistant?"


    "Ah? No, no, of course not!"


    "Then why aren¡¯t you leaving?!"


    Watching Gu Qixiao and Assistant Li leave her office one after the other, Ji Yu resumed gathering materials on Dion.


    Only withprehensive knowledge of the client¡¯s injuries could she ensure optimal wound recovery results.


    Staring at Dion¡¯s untouched pre-ident photo on the screen, Ji Yu couldn¡¯t help but marvel. The ageless male god truly deserved his title.


    His features were delicate, his cheekbones full, and thirty-seven years of life had added neither harshness nor fatigue to his face. Instead, they had lent him the confidence and polish of a mature man.


    The thought of such a face being disfigured in a car ident made Ji Yu¡¯s heart ache slightly.


    Not for anything else¡ªshe simply appreciated anything purely natural.


    Even though her surgery would bring repairs, Dion would never again be the ageless male god he once was.


    Still, as long as he survived such a devastating event, everything else would be trivial.


    Online reports about the incident were sparse. Ji Yu skimmed the avable information quickly and formed a general idea about Dion butcked more detailed insights.


    Just as she was grappling with how to proceed, Tian conveniently sent over a batch of documents.


    [Sister Yu, Dion¡¯s agency haspiled the hospital¡¯stest examination report and sent it over.]


    [Dion¡¯s agent, Sister Yan, hopes to meet tomorrow to discuss the n in more detail.]

 Chapter 29: You’ll be the Assistant Surgeon for This Operation

    <h4>Chapter 29: Chapter 29: You¡¯ll be the Assistant Surgeon for This Operation</h4>


    "Tomorrow, huh..."


    Looking at the hospital details sent by Tian on the messaging page, Ji Yu flipped through them with a furrow between her brows.


    Based on Dion¡¯s medical report, it was clear that Dion¡¯s current physical data was not promising.


    Now, the other party¡¯s managementpany was contacting her to discuss his surgery¡ªthis was outright unreasonable!


    Although Ji Yu was not the hospital¡¯s chief surgeon, she had been exposed to extensive specialized knowledge during her time as a medical student.


    As one of the prized students fought over by many professors, Ji Yu had gained deep expertise across various medical fields.


    Precisely for this reason, upon reading Dion¡¯s pathology report, her reaction was so sharp.


    Dion...


    "Dion shouldn¡¯t even be awake right now, let alone out of immediate danger..."


    While thinking, Ji Yu started searching for more information rted to Dion on the inte.


    It didn¡¯t take long for buzzwords about Dion to climb to the trending list online.


    #DionTheAgelessGod#


    #AgelessGodCarident#


    #AgelessGodStillInDanger#


    #DionDead#


    Reading the mix of truths and falsehoods on the inte, Ji Yu felt a headacheing on.


    "Could Dion¡¯s management team possibly think their fame alone justifies stirring up trouble to cash in?"


    The improbable thought surfaced in her mind, surprising Ji Yu enough to shake her head.


    No way!


    Dion already had millions in insurance coverage¡ªnot to mention his face.


    There¡¯s absolutely no need toe after her for anything.


    With this in mind, Ji Yu ignored the online chatter and began drafting surgical ns addressing potential issues with Dion.


    Given that Dion¡¯s situation was still not entirely clear, Ji Yu considered multiple possibilities while preparing the ns.


    If the ident caused trauma to Dion¡¯s facial features, facial reconstruction work could prove challenging.


    If the goal was merely aesthetic continuity, techniques resembling special effects could be considered to enhance appearance; however, this would require periodic adjustments and recements.


    If the ident had involved severe burns, then skin grafting would naturally be the first choice.


    Following the grafts, adjustments would be made based on Dion¡¯s recovery progress and facial nervepatibility with the transnted skin to ensure postoperative facial restoration.


    From the moment Tian sent her the details, Ji Yu spent the entire night revisiting and refining her ns.


    Even when Feng Qinqin, after work, had suggested they go to Moon together, Ji Yu had refused without hesitation.


    "Didn¡¯t you make up with Cai Xun? Let Cai Xun go with you¡ªI have an important client, and I need to prepare the ns in advance."


    "Yeah, things seem a bit tricky right now..."


    Upon hearing it was something work-rted for Ji Yu, Feng Qinqin didn¡¯t ask further. She simply gave a few brief reminders to take care and rest before heading off to Moon for drinks.


    As for Ji Yu, she worked alone on refinements, busy until the sky turned pale with dawn.


    Watching the sky outside change from crimson to white, Ji Yu organized all the finalized ns and sent them to Tian.


    Afterward, she went to the rest area inside her office, barely wasting a moment before lying down and falling asleep.


    Before her wedding, back when her practice "Re-Begin" was still in its early stages, Ji Yu had often workedte into the night.


    Because of this, her office had always been equipped with a private rest area.


    It was designed to ensure she could catch up on rest whenever her workload kept her up toote.


    Tian saw Ji Yu¡¯s message at around 10 a.m., well into her workday. After dealing with Re-Begin¡¯s morning administrative tasks, she finally had time to look at her phone.


    Following Ji Yu¡¯s instructions, Tian printed and organized all the ns Ji Yu sent her, and then, as an extra step, ordered lunch for Ji Yu based on her usual preferences.


    Dion¡¯s agent, Sister Yan, was scheduled to visit Re-Begin at 3 p.m. to discuss Dion¡¯s surgery with Ji Yu. Since Ji Yu had sent the ns so early, it was obvious she had pulled another all-nighter.


    Having witnessed Ji Yu¡¯s relentless drive during their student days, Tian wasn¡¯t surprised; she even considered it routine.


    "Still, I should remind Sister Yu¡ªstaying up like this just for a challenging or troublesome client isn¡¯t sustainable..."


    Having finished her tasks, Tian murmured to herself while double-checking the arrangements for Sister Yan¡¯s visit that afternoon.


    After that, Tian returned to her assistant duties.


    Meanwhile, Ji Yu slept soundly, undisturbed by any worries, yet elsewhere, in Doctor Song¡¯s department, Song Xuan had another meltdown about unrted news concerning Gu Qixiao.


    "Impossible, it¡¯s absolutely impossible!"


    "That bitch must be jealous of me! Xiao must be thinking that way too."


    "No! Xiao, you must have been threatened by her, weren¡¯t you?!"


    In her spiral of paranoia, Song Xuan refused to listen to anyone around her, further worsening Gu Qixiao¡¯s mood, already dampened by repeated losses in his encounters with Ji Yu.


    He truly couldn¡¯t understand why women were so exasperating.


    Ji Yu was overly clever and cautious, leaving him stumbling every time he dealt with her. Song Xuan, on the other hand, was stupid and obnoxiously loud, yet dealing with her was unavoidable because of Song Tingdong...


    Gripped with frustration over the entire situation, Gu Qixiao finally reached his limit with Song Xuan¡¯s nonsense.


    "Enough! Doctor Ji hasid out all her reports¡ªeverything is backed by evidence and is unequivocal."


    His sharp rebuke stunned Song Xuan into a brief silence.


    Gu Qixiao wasted no time, saying firmly:


    "Since you seem to love staying at the hospital so much, Assistant Li, arrange for Miss Song to undergo half a year of recovery and rest here."


    Before leaving, he specifically instructed that Song Xuan behave and stay quiet if she wanted him to help find an appropriate doctor for her.


    Gu Qixiao¡¯s fury left Song Xuan thoroughly shaken. For now, at least, she dared not provoke him further.


    Though short bursts of meltdowns weren¡¯t umon at the hospital,pared with the previous incidents, Assistant Li was capable of handling them on his own.


    Ji Yu woke up at 1:10 p.m., refreshed, and afterpleting her routines, she sat down to enjoy lunch pre-ordered by Tian.


    While eating, she casually chatted with Tian about future career ns...


    "Tian, have you ever thought about performing surgery on a patient yourself?"


    Operating on patients was Tian¡¯s dream when she had applied to medical school and studied stic surgery, but after graduation, reality had kept her from achieving it.


    Years of work as an assistant had dulled her ambition to see grateful smiles from patients, recing it with a preference for reliably and quietly doing her job.


    But dormant dreams die hard, and the light in Tian¡¯s eyes when Ji Yu asked the question was undeniable.


    Watching Tian¡¯s hesitant and embarrassed expressions, Ji Yu didn¡¯t press her further.


    After finishing her meal, Ji Yu simply said, with casual ease:


    "You¡¯ll be my assistant surgeon for this operation¡ªhelp meplete Dion¡¯s surgery."

 Chapter 30 I, I am willing!

    <h4>Chapter 30: Chapter 30 I, I am willing!</h4>


    Upon hearing Ji Yu¡¯s words, Tian, who had been caught in all kinds of turmoil deep within her heart, suddenly panicked.


    "Huh? Sister Yu, are you saying you don¡¯t need me anymore?"


    Tian quickly reflected on how she¡¯d been performing as an assistant over the years, turning it over in her mind endlessly, but couldn¡¯t pinpoint anything she¡¯d done wrong.


    Still, Ji Yu¡¯s words startled her, leaving her with the unsettling sense that she might have made a mistake.


    Seeing Tian¡¯s terrified expression, Ji Yu didn¡¯t get upset. She simply smiled and softly exined.


    "You¡¯re my junior in the same field, and I¡¯m well aware of your skills."


    "In the past few years, due to personal reasons, I may have struggled to deal with clients directly. Just when your family encountered difficulties, you became my assistant. I hoped you could serve as a new representative to engage with people, partly for the sake of Renewed¡¯s future."


    "But now it¡¯s different. You¡¯ve learned how to interact with people. At the very least, you can handle any client calmly and face work without stage fright."


    "Even though you were a bit intimidated by Gu Qixiao in the office yesterday, when it came to work-rtedmunication, you performed admirably."


    Ji Yu earnestly praised Tian¡¯s improvement. Watching the young woman transform her tension into happiness, Ji Yu¡¯s own face lit up with a smile.


    "Still, you¡¯ve also had the opportunity to be an outstanding stic surgeon. It¡¯s not that I don¡¯t want you to be my assistant; I hope you can realize more of your own potential and value."


    "Of course, if this is something you¡¯re unwilling to pursue, just consider my words unspoken."


    Before Ji Yu could leave after speaking, Tian hurriedly shouted in a loud voice.


    "I... I¡¯m willing!"


    Though hesitant, the three words she uttered were resolute, simultaneously expressing Tian¡¯s longing to be a stic surgeon.


    Hearing Tian¡¯s response, Ji Yu smiled.


    "Alright then, let¡¯s get ready. Dion¡¯s manager should be arriving soon."


    The two quickly prepared Dion¡¯s surgery negotiation materials, and by the afternoon, Sister Yan arrived at Renewed right on time.


    Sister Yan was Dion¡¯s manager, whose real name was Zhou Haiyan.


    From their surname, one could deduce that Sister Yan was not only Dion¡¯s manager but also Zhou Yan¡¯s biological elder sister.


    Back when Dion had just started out as a male artist, his youthful conservativeness held him back. It was Zhou Haiyan¡¯s familial authority that helped Dion break through quickly.


    At an award ceremony speech, Zhou Haiyan even had Dion loosen the cor of his suit slightly, winning him a wave of fans admiring his looks.


    Since then, Zhou Haiyan had been recognized by Dion¡¯s fans as the "most beautiful sister."


    This "beauty" didn¡¯te from Zhou Haiyan¡¯s appearance but from her understanding of how to showcase her brother¡¯s allure.


    "Sister Yan, this is Doctor Ji of Renewed."


    Ji Yu, ever professional, never introduced herself by her full name. Ji Yu and Ji Yu sounded identical in pronunciation, and Ji Yu¡¯s name was simpler. She always publicly presented herself as Ji Yu.


    Moreover, Ji Yu was the name she¡¯d used when she first came to the Ji family. Back then, the Ji family¡¯s parents hadn¡¯t nned to raise her permanently. It waster, at Ji Yuanzhou¡¯s insistence, that they adopted her formally and renamed her Ji Yu.


    As for the name Ji Yu, it was initially something Ji Yu had casuallye up with after hearing people talk about "rainy seasons."


    "Doctor Ji."


    Sister Yan nced calmly at Ji Yu, though herposed demeanor couldn¡¯t entirely mask the swelling on her face caused by tears.


    "Miss Zhou, please don¡¯t worry. Dion will definitely wake up."


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t immediately discuss Dion¡¯s surgical details, as the report data sent over yesterday made it clear that Dion wouldn¡¯t wake up anytime soon.


    "Doctor Ji, you¡¯re too kind. Just call me Sister Yan." Sister Yan choked up at Ji Yu¡¯s words, pulling a tissue from her pocket naturally.


    "We¡¯ve already brought in the most renowned doctors locally to treat Dion. His physical condition is stable now, but he hasn¡¯t regained consciousness yet."


    "Dion has always taken pride in his face, ever since he was young. Now that such a thing has happened, the first person I thought of was you, Doctor Ji."


    "If... if Dion wakes up, we¡¯ll have to trouble you to handle his surgery."


    Zhou Haiyan didn¡¯t demand that Ji Yu perform the surgery immediately. She was aware of Ji Yu¡¯s little quirks and preferences in her work.


    She only hoped that once Dion had recovered sufficiently, Ji Yu could help restore a face that was at least presentable.


    As for being an "ageless male god," such idols were nothingpared to Dion being healthy and alive.


    Zhou Haiyan didn¡¯t directly voice these thoughts to Ji Yu, yet her intentions were apparent through the brief words exchanged.


    "If that¡¯s the case, let¡¯s start by introducing some potential scenarios for Dion¡¯s future surgery. Sister Yan, does that work for you?"


    After confirming Sister Yan¡¯s approval, Ji Yu had Tian hand over the materials they had prepared earlier. For quite some time, the three of them examined Dion¡¯s surgical report and discussed various possible conditions and treatment ns in a small meeting room.


    By the time they¡¯d finished presenting Dion¡¯s surgical ns, three hours had passed.


    Before Sister Yan left, her face showed gratitude as she looked at Ji Yu.


    "Doctor Ji, thank you!"


    Seeing Sister Yan off, Ji Yu¡¯s typically solemn expression shifted slightly as Tian followed her to their respective offices.


    But soon enough, there was a knock outside Ji Yu¡¯s office.


    "Sister Yu, President Gu has sent someone to contact you again."


    "Just refuse directly. From now on, decline anything rted to Song Xuan."


    Tian didn¡¯t know how to respond to Ji Yu¡¯s firm attitude.


    While Ji Yu had always handled such matters simrly, her stance had never been as unyielding as this.


    The current rigidity seemed to target someone specifically, though it was unclear whether it was due to Miss Song¡¯s self-centeredness or President Gu¡¯s persistent attempts to provoke Ji Yu.


    Tian didn¡¯t delve further into the matter.


    Over her years as an assistant, the most important lesson she¡¯d learned was not to ask questions about things she wasn¡¯t supposed to know.


    Except for asionalpses, Tian usually excelled in her role as an assistant.


    After rejecting Gu Qixiao¡¯s request, Ji Yu found herself internally ranting about her ex-husband.


    "For someone who¡¯s a business tycoon, why did he pick such an idiotic mistress? The mistress especially has no brains..."


    Just as Ji Yu was mentally griping about Gu Qixiao, a phone call from Feng Qinqin came through again.


    Remembering that she hadn¡¯t had time to check on Feng Qinqin due to being busy with Dion¡¯s affairs thest couple of days, Ji Yu quickly answered the call.


    On the other end, there was Feng Qinqin¡¯s voice, clearly drunk.


    "Yuyu, let me tell you, Cai Xun is such a scumbag!"

 Chapter 31 Feng Qinqin Drinks to Drown Her Sorrows

    <h4>Chapter 31: Chapter 31 Feng Qinqin Drinks to Drown Her Sorrows</h4>


    "I used to think Cai Xun was just into some harmless antics, but guess what? Since that day, he¡¯s been utterly shameless!"


    Although Ji Yu didn¡¯t know exactly what had happened between Feng Qinqin and Cai Xun, it was easy to tell from Qinqin¡¯s tone that she was quite angry at the moment.


    Feng Qinqin rarely had such a poor opinion of someone, especially since Cai Xun was her boyfriend.


    Even though Ji Yu clearly remembered that just the other day, Feng Qinqin and Cai Xun had made up.


    "Where are you now? I¡¯lle find you."


    It was already past working hours, andtely, Ji Yu had only received an appointment from Dion.


    So Ji Yu had most of her time free unless the hospital urgently needed her, in which case Tian would contact her immediately.


    Moreover, during the three years she was married to Gu Qixiao, things ran smoothly without her involvement.


    Due to all these factors, Ji Yu hurried over as soon as she learned Feng Qinqin was at Moon.


    Moon wasn¡¯t exactly close to where she started, and due to road construction, Ji Yu had to take a long detour to get there.


    Seeing the construction areas on the navigation, Ji Yu instinctively thought about the recent car ident involving Dion.


    "It looks like the ce where Dion had the ident is right around here..."


    Despite rumors and the statements from Dion¡¯s agency saying his ident was due to racing, the actual crash site wasn¡¯t on the race track.


    The discrepancy was mainly because Dion had just finished hispetition when he got a call from his family. Having just won the group championship, Dion was eager to go home and celebrate with his wife, but the racing car had worn out during the race.


    That¡¯s when Dion identally had the mishap while driving home.


    The tragic oue was something no one wanted to see, but now that it had happened, there wasn¡¯t much point inmenting over it.


    Ji Yu¡¯s sadness during the journey didn¡¯tst long, and by the time she snapped back to reality, she was already outside Moon.


    The sunset was hanging not far off, and as she walked into Moon, she saw a couple of waitstaff busily working there.


    The receptionist smiled and nodded at Ji Yu, and she naturally made her way to the familiar VVIP private room.


    She even checked the room name before entering.


    Didn¡¯t want to get it wrong again this time.


    "Cai Xun, you bastard..."


    "Bastard! Aargh!"


    Ji pushed the door open, and what she saw was Feng Qinqin in a frenzied state.


    Bing, who wasn¡¯t busy at the moment, was there with Feng Qinqin. Considering their unique rtionship, Ji Yu had long grown ustomed to such scenes.


    Before Cai Xun started pursuing Feng Qinqin, she often dragged Ji Yu to the private room at Moon.


    Frankly, since their student days, one of Moon¡¯s two VVIP private rooms was practically like Qinqin¡¯s personal VIP room.


    Not for any other reason. Just because she spent most of her time there.


    And Bing was the man who had stayed by her side since their student days.


    The first time Feng Qinqin saw Bing in college, she was instantly taken by his fresh, youthful face.


    Because Ji Yu was focused on her studies, Feng Qinqin was influenced by her, although she spent most of her time at Moon, she was actually busy with academic matters.


    Due to family reasons that brought him to work at Moon, Bing was a senior in the business school Qinqin aimed to attend, so during the days he apanied her, her professional skills improved continuously.


    "Thanks for your hard work."


    Ji Yu naturally understood that Bing had different feelings for Feng Qinqin, but that was her private matter, and she didn¡¯t intend to interfere.


    While confident that Bing wouldn¡¯t cause any harm to Feng Qinqin, since she was here and not knowing if Cai Xun might show up again,


    Ji Yu politely thanked Bing and then signaled for him to leave.


    Bing, understanding Ji Yu¡¯s hint, didn¡¯t insist on staying to apany Feng Qinqin; he was much more reservedpared to her.


    Especially after all these years at Moon, having met countless people, he had long learned how to read others¡¯ expressions.


    "Actually, if Bing was willing to stay by Qinqin¡¯s side and help her, perhaps..."


    Watching Bing leave, a strange thought crossed Ji Yu¡¯s mind.


    But before she could think further, Feng Qinqin directly threw herself at her.


    "Yuyu, boohoo."


    "Yuyu, how could that Cai Xun be such a jerk..."


    Feng Qinqin hugged Ji Yu tightly, rubbing against her while mumbling softly.


    Ji Yu wasn¡¯t annoyed by Feng Qinqin¡¯s behavior; she just naturally patted Qinqin¡¯s head.


    From the way Feng Qinqin was acting now, it was obvious she was drunk.


    Ordinarily, Feng Qinqin was always cheerful and carefree, only behaving like this when she was genuinely drunk, cuddling up to Ji Yu or Bing.


    Even during those three years she was with Cai Xun, Feng Qinqin never dared to really get drunk.


    "Qinqin, can you still recognize who I am?"


    Ji Yuforted Qinqin until she stopped sobbing, then tried to have a conversation with her.


    But despite asking multiple times, she only got a nk, silly response from Qinqin.


    "You¡¯re my Yuyu, hehe."


    Since she couldn¡¯t get anything out of Qinqin in her current state, Ji Yu called Bing and Quan to help carry Qinqin to the backseat of her car.


    Given how drunk Qinqin was, Ji Yu had no choice but to take her to her own small apartment.


    ...


    Dragging Feng Qinqin from the basement elevator to her doorstep, Ji Yu first leaned Qinqin against the elevator door to open her apartment door using her keycard.


    Ji Yu¡¯s small apartment had a one-unit-per-flooryout, so she wasn¡¯t worried about Qinqin disappearing from her doorstep.


    Before long, Ji Yu dragged and pulled Qinqin into her apartment.


    Then, with quite some effort, she managed to move Qinqin into her own bedroom.


    Looking at Qinqin sleeping soundly on the bed, even smacking her lips in her dreams, Ji Yu smiled.


    Although she was very tired, at least Qinqin was fine.


    That made it all worthwhile.


    With that in mind, Ji Yu went to the bathroom to freshen up, changed out of her clothes that reeked of alcohol, and went to the living room.


    After thinking it over, she decided to find Cai Xun¡¯s number on her phone.


    Although it would be easier to wait until tomorrow for Qinqin to tell her the reason, Ji Yu felt she should help Qinqin decide whether this man was worth keeping.


    "Hello, Cai Xun, I have something to discuss with you."

 Chapter 32 The Boss Found a Solution!

    <h4>Chapter 32: Chapter 32 The Boss Found a Solution!</h4>


    Cai Xun, who was originally preparing to sleep alongside the beauty in his arms, answered the unfamiliar phone without much thought. However, his expression changed upon hearing Ji Yu¡¯s voice on the other end.


    The intimate atmosphere he had just shared with the beauty disappeared in an instant.


    Hepletely disregarded the dissatisfaction written on the woman¡¯s face, hastily getting up and moving to the side to talk to Ji Yu.


    The reason was simple: Ji Yu was Feng Qinqin¡¯s close friend.


    Even though he no longer valued Feng Qinqin¡¯s background, she was still useful to him for the moment.


    "Hello, Ji Yu? What¡¯s the matter?"


    Ji Yu, on the other end of the call, clearly heard the noisesing from Cai Xun¡¯s side. Although Cai Xun tried hard to hide it, the sound of a woman¡¯s voice still made its way through to her.


    "Am I disturbing you?"


    Having some concerns in her mind, Ji Yu began recording the call as soon as she dialed Cai Xun.


    After all, if Feng Qinqin became irrationally infatuated and Cai Xun tried to frame her, it would be troublesome for Ji Yu to deal with. Recording the call seemed like a precaution.


    Right now, she conveniently recorded evidence to help Feng Qinqin.


    Feng Qinqin might be yful, but ever since she started dating Cai Xun, she hadn¡¯t done anything to betray their rtionship.


    Even though Bing had thoughts about Feng Qinqin, he always acted as a big brother figure since she already had a boyfriend.


    "No, I was about to rest. What¡¯s the matter? Feel free to say."


    Unaware of Ji Yu¡¯s subtle actions, Cai Xun casually responded.


    The woman beside him, watching as he sat there talking on the phone, grew impatient after waiting for a while and walked over to Cai Xun.


    Just as Ji Yu started asking about what happened between Cai Xun and Feng Qinqin, she heard Cai Xun sharply inhale from the other end of the phone.


    "I called not for anything else, but to ask about what¡¯s been going on between you and Qinqin."


    "From what I recall, the two of you had just patched things up a few days ago, and now Qinqin suddenly..."


    Even though she had spent that one night with Gu Qixiao, Ji Yu could instantly understand what the sound from Cai Xun over the phone implied.


    Fueled by the woman¡¯s instigation beside him, Cai Xun suppressed his temper as he set his phone on the table, switched it to speaker mode, and slowly helped the woman up.


    Momentster, Ji Yu¡¯s questioning voice came through:


    "What¡¯s going on over there?"


    Despite having apanied others overnight before, this particr night felt exceptionally nerve-wracking for Cai Xun.


    Ji Yu¡¯s phone call had unsettled him from the beginning, and now the tension rendered him speechless.


    When Ji Yu didn¡¯t hear anything from Cai Xun for a long time and began to wonder if he was intentionally ignoring her, Cai Xun finally responded.


    "Ah, nothing. I just bumped into something earlier, had to take a moment to recover."


    "About me and Qinqin, could you try talking her around for me? You know how it is¡ªwhen ites to work, socializing is unavoidable. It just so happens that the person I had to meet was a woman, and Qinqin felt uneasy about it."


    "Everything I do is for the sake of our future together. Sure, our family has a smallpany, butpared to Qinqin¡¯s family, it¡¯s not really a proper match. I¡¯m genuinely doing everything I can just to be worthy of her!"


    This excuse might work on others, but Ji Yu wasn¡¯t buying it at all. In fact, she found his reasoning utterly contemptible.


    Still, he was, after all, Feng Qinqin¡¯s boyfriend, and she had to give him some face.


    "Mm."


    Ji Yu responded perfunctorily before asking a few more questions in passing, then ended the call without saying much else.


    After hanging up, Ji Yu yed back the recording and listened to it briefly to ensure it was intact. Satisfied, she backed up the file, then stood up and walked outside Feng Qinqin¡¯s door.


    Pushing the door open, she saw Feng Qinqin asleep peacefully, and her turbulent thoughts finally settled.


    Even after hanging up with Ji Yu, Cai Xun still felt deeply uneasy in his heart.


    He hadn¡¯t lied to Ji Yu¡ªthe argument with Feng Qinqin did stem from his obligation to dine with a business partner.


    What he omitted was that after the dinner, he had gone to a hotel with the business partner, who happened to be the woman sitting beside him during the call.


    Ever since the Gu family announced its coboration with Canning Group, a growing number of smallpanies had started flocking to make connections.


    Some had even taken to using seduction tactics to entice Cai Xun into cooperative agreements.


    The woman, watching Cai Xun¡¯s despondent manner after he ended the call, hesitated in her advance.


    Aware of the underlying reason, Cai Xun didn¡¯t make things difficult for her.


    "Next time, alright? I¡¯m feeling a bit worn out¡ªit¡¯s better to get some sleep early."


    After giving a casual exnation, Cai Xun returned to bed, though this time was bound to feel very different from before...


    The night passed¡ªsome slept soundly, while others were gued by restless tension.


    When Feng Qinqin woke up the next morning, she responded vaguely to Ji Yu¡¯s questioning. Noticing that Feng Qinqin was unwilling to go into detail, Ji Yu didn¡¯t press further.


    The two returned to their busy lives, with Feng Qinqin not showing any significant changes apart from moving out of her family home to stay with Ji Yu after getting drunk.


    Ji Yu, while waiting for updates on Dion¡¯s condition, spent her days focused on personal growth and learning, limiting any involvement with other matters.


    Song Xuan remained eerily quiet on her end, while Gu Qixiao, swamped with his workload, didn¡¯t have time to delve into whatever schemes she might be plotting.


    Half a month passed peacefully without incident.


    When Song Xuan was finally discharged from the hospital, Gu Qixiao, under pressure, set aside his work to pick her up.


    "Xiao, you came to pick me up?"


    Her consistent enthusiasm was met with indifference as Gu Qixiao clenched his right hand discreetly where no one could see.


    Later, when no one was paying attention, Song Xuan quickly sent a message from her phone to someone.


    The content of the message was known only to Song Xuan and the recipient.


    Meanwhile, unbeknownst to everyone, a group began writing endless code on theirputers.


    Fake information about Ji Yu and fabricated photos of her demanding special treatment began to appear onputer screens.


    The person working on theputer grinned with satisfaction, looking down at the phone message from their contact.


    With a confident expression, they clicked the confirmation button.


    In an instant, news painting Ji Yu as an unscrupulous doctor began circting widely online.


    At this moment, Gu Qixiao and Song Xuan were sitting in the car after leaving the hospital. While one of them was busy working, the other silently admired Gu Qixiao¡¯s focused features.


    This serene scene was abruptly disrupted by Assistant Li¡¯s surprised exmation.


    "Boss, we¡¯ve found a solution!"

 Chapter 33 Xiao, you must help me...

    <h4>Chapter 33: Chapter 33 Xiao, you must help me...</h4>


    "What¡¯s with all the fuss andmotion!"


    The originally annoyed Gu Qixiao, frustrated by work matters, was startled out of his thoughts by Assistant Li¡¯s sudden exmation.


    The proposal he¡¯d just pieced together vanished from his mind in an instant.


    In that moment, his calm demeanor shifted from cloudy to stormy, and the air inside the car seemed to drop a few degrees.


    "B-boss..."


    Gu Qixiao¡¯s stern reply left Assistant Li at a loss for words, stammering without forming a coherent sentence.


    "If there¡¯s something to say, just say it quickly."


    On the side, Song Xuan watched Gu Qixiao¡¯s angry expression but didn¡¯t feel any fear.


    In fact, to her, even an angry Gu Qixiao was breathtakingly handsome.


    "We¡¯ve found a solution to fix Miss Song¡¯s face. After nearly half a month of investigation, it turns out that Professor Song Mei from Tsing University Medical College¡ªthe leading expert on facial reconstruction¡ªis the most authoritative cosmetic surgeon in the country."


    "We¡¯ve already establishedmunication with Director Song¡¯s team. She¡¯s currently abroad for interviews and will return in half a month. Her assistant will then contact us."


    "Perhaps by then, Miss Song¡¯s face could be restored to its original state."


    After delivering the information about Song Mei, Assistant Li breathed a sigh of relief. Truth be told, it wasn¡¯t just Gu Qixiao who found Song Xuan a headache; after all this time, even Assistant Li had been driven to his limits by her antics.


    The staff member assigned to observe Song Xuan at the hospital for nearly a month had almost resigned and left.


    Imagining that all the drama might finally be resolved in just over half a month, Assistant Li¡¯s expression became noticeably more rxed.


    However, he failed to notice the moment when Song Xuan, hearing the words "restored to its original state," had her initially excited expression abruptly copse.


    "Who wants to go back to how it was? I only want to look better than that bitch Ji Yu!"


    "Only then will Xiao be mine. Otherwise, Xiao will always think I¡¯m not good enough for him!"


    Song Xuan¡¯s bitter internal monologue remained unheard by anyone. The moment Gu Qixiao nced her way, she immediately threw on a cheerful facade.


    "Xiao, this is such great news!"


    Gu Qixiao couldn¡¯t tell whether Song Xuan¡¯s joy was because she could restore her appearance or because it would give her renewed permission to cling to him. His expression remained far from pleasant.


    Seeing Gu Qixiao¡¯s unchanging expression made Song Xuan clench inside.


    "Could it be... Gu Qixiao doesn¡¯t want to help me with the surgery anymore?"


    "Or is it that bitch Ji Yu has already gotten into his ear?!"


    Raging internally, Song Xuan maintained a semnce ofposure, feigning a look of pitiful sadness.


    Like she¡¯d already been told that Gu Qixiao wouldn¡¯t help her, Song Xuan nearly burst into tears as she spoke up.


    "Xiao, you have to help me... I don¡¯t have anyone else left."


    Seeing Gu Qixiao still unmoved, Song Xuan squeezed out a few tears and amplified her act.


    "I¡¯ve stopped chasing impossible dreams. I just hope I can restore my appearance so I can stand in the sunshine and live a normal life."


    "Xiao, please believe me, okay? I was immature before. I realize my mistakes now. Really!"


    Song Xuan¡¯s incessant pleading beside Gu Qixiao made Assistant Li, seated in the front passenger seat, feel overwhelmed.


    Let alone how much Gu Qixiao¡¯s headache must have intensified by now.


    "How is this Song Xuan even noisier than Doctor Ji!"


    Previously, Gu Qixiao thought Ji Yu was chatty whenever he met her. Now, his perspective had shifted.


    To be frank, Gu Qixiao had hardly been surrounded by women in the past.


    Most of his business dealings took ce with men present.


    For one reason: rumors in Beijing imed that Gu Qixiao disliked women approaching him. No one dared provoke the head of Gus Group, much less touch his deepest sensitivities.


    Though he initially resisted speaking, Gu Qixiao had grown too irritated by Song Xuan¡¯s persistent chatter and reluctantly responded.


    "Mm."


    "Rest assured, Miss Song. We¡¯ll do everything we can to help you."


    "Not for any other reason¡ªjust for Tingdong¡¯s sake, we¡¯ll make sure of it."


    Assistant Li quickly mentioned Song Tingdong before Song Xuan could resume her pity act¡ªa maneuver that caught Song Xuan off guard.


    She hadn¡¯t expected Assistant Li to be so quick-witted today.


    The air within the car grew awkward. Including the driver, the four upants remained silent.


    Only the sound of Gu Qixiao¡¯s long fingers typing rapidly on hisptop filled the space.


    Despite his high-ranking position as CEO of Gus Group, having been in charge for just three or four years, Gu Qixiao still personally handled many tasks.


    It was this proactive approach that inspired manypetent employees, like Assistant Li, to remain loyal to Gus Group and to Gu Qixiao¡¯s side.


    Back in the day, this trust was also what motivated Song Tingdong to give everything he had.


    Feeling the mounting awkwardness in the car¡¯s atmosphere, Song Xuan began to scroll through her phone out of frustration.


    When she saw increasing amounts of content online regarding Congxin and Ji Yu, the irritation brewing inside her finally subsided.


    Meanwhile, Dion, whose physical health had recovered nearly fully, proceeded with final approval for his treatment n after Ji Yu¡¯s examination.


    In the meeting room, Ji Yu and Zhou Haiyan were in deep discussion about thest details of the n when an abrupt knock at the door interrupted them. At the same time, Zhou Haiyan¡¯s phone, set up facing the silent mode screen, rang with a call from her assistant.


    The two exchanged quick nces and paused their discussion to step aside.


    Before long, from opposite corners of the meeting room, Ji Yu and Zhou Haiyan¡¯s voices echoed simultaneously.


    "What did you say?"


    News rted to Ji Yu and Congxin was rapidly trending across media tforms, and mounting scandals were swirling in torrents.


    Zhou Haiyan¡¯s assistant was rying thepany¡¯s instructions over the phone.


    "Sister Yan, thepany wants the surgery to be conducted in secret. If any risks arise, Dion has to bear them alone¡ªor we change hospitals to perform the surgery."


    A seasoned veteran in actor management, Zhou Haiyan naturally understood thepany¡¯s intention. Yet, after all this time, she was absolutely certain Doctor Ji was trustworthy.


    "Alright, I¡¯ll think about it."


    After hanging up and turning back around, Zhou Haiyan caught Ji Yu up on the situation.


    Though Ji Yu seemed rtively indifferent about the matter herself, she was still mindful of Congxin¡¯s reputation¡ªespecially now that Dion¡¯s surgery was imminent...


    Realizing that withholding specifics about the lead surgeon might be a solution, Ji Yu began to settle on an idea.


    When the two sat back down to finalize the n, both were privately preupied.


    As they wrapped up the meeting, both spoke at the same time.


    "Sister Yan..."


    "Doctor Ji..."

 Chapter 34: After amendment - 34 Everything Prioritizes the Patient

    <h4>Chapter 34: After amendment: Chapter 34 Everything Prioritizes the Patient</h4>


    When Ji Yu heard Zhou Haiyan about to speak, her heart skipped a beat.


    She didn¡¯t even have time to exchange polite words with her and directly voiced her own thoughts.


    It wasn¡¯t for any other reason, but because during Ji Yu¡¯s investigation into Dion¡¯s background, she found that as a celebrity, he was indeed a positive role model, often sponsoring impoverished children.


    If Dion¡¯s surgery were to be handled by her, she could only say that everything he achieved was well-deserved.


    "Sister Yan, I think you¡¯ve already seen the news circting online, but I hope you can trust me."


    "The inte is not awless space, and From New will certainly uncover the ones behind these schemes targeting us. But for now, Mr. Zhou¡¯s surgery should not be dyed further¡ªhis physical recovery has already been postponed for far too long. If we continue to dy..."


    Listening to Ji Yu¡¯s words, Zhou Haiyan became even more resolved in choosing Ji Yu as the primary surgeon for Dion.


    Many celebrities undergo cosmetic surgery, but the majority of such procedures tend to cause side effects.


    Now that Dion was no longer in his youthful prime, Zhou Haiyan had taken a more serious interest in his surgery.


    "Doctor Ji, since you¡¯ve spoken so frankly, I won¡¯t beat around the bush either."


    Ji Yu¡¯s candidness made Zhou Haiyan all the more uneasy, as she felt somewhat guilty toward her.


    But when she thought of her brother¡¯s future...


    "My assistant just contacted me. Thepany¡¯s stance is that if we still want to coborate with From New, the surgical patient must remain confidential to the public."


    "I know this might seem unfair to you, Doctor Ji, and I¡¯ll certainly ensure you¡¯repensated. Dion is my younger brother, and I wouldn¡¯t want him to end up being handled carelessly by someone else..."


    Ji Yu understood the ¡¯carelessness¡¯ Zhou Haiyan was referring to, and it was precisely due to this that she hoped to convince her to agree to let her proceed with the surgery.


    Now that their thoughts aligned, the knot of tension in Ji Yu¡¯s heart finally loosened.


    "Of course. With surgeries, ensuring the patient¡¯s well-being must always be the priority."


    This one sentence¡ª"ensuring the patient¡¯s well-being"¡ªreassured Zhou Haiyan greatly. She hadn¡¯t expected Ji Yu to agree so quickly.


    Since Ji Yu had agreed, naturally, Zhou Haiyan wouldn¡¯t treat her poorly.


    "Then I¡¯ll leave it all to you, Doctor Ji. The proposed n looks good. As for the previously discussed eighty million, the surgical fee will be raised to 100 million¡ªI hope you won¡¯t refuse."


    Originally thinking of declining, Ji Yu, hearing this, decided not to act coy anymore.


    Over the past three years, she had missed out on earning a lot of money. Now, with someone sending funds her way, only a fool wouldn¡¯t ept.


    What¡¯s more, though Dion¡¯s surgery wasn¡¯t considered particrly high difficulty, it did require a great deal of personal patience and effort.


    Following a car ident, Dion had suffered extensive burns to his face, and most of his body showed mild burns as well.


    Recently, if Ji Yu hadn¡¯t contacted her mentor abroad for consultation, she really wouldn¡¯t have known how to proceed optimally.


    "Since they¡¯re being so generous, I¡¯ll do them the favor of treating this ageless idol¡¯s burns while I¡¯m at it..."


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t share this thought with Zhou Haiyan, asprehensive skin grafting would require a significantly longer amount of time.


    Post-surgery, Ji Yu nned to use her specially developed ointment for recovery. Then, if Dion¡¯s skin still showed extensive issues, she could bring up additional measurester.


    "Alright then, Sister Yan, let¡¯s meet at From New a week from now."


    Ji Yu calmly shook hands with Zhou Haiyan to bid goodbye. After all, the surgical agreement needed amendments¡ªa quick stop for Tian to guide Zhou Haiyan through signing would suffice.


    Ji Yu had more pressing matters to attend to.


    Someone had decided to provoke her, and naturally, she didn¡¯t n to let them off easily.


    Once Zhou Haiyan was guided away by Tian and out of her line of sight, Ji Yu pulled out her exclusive From New phone and dialed a string of numbers.


    "Hey Hong, have you seen what¡¯s been happening online?"


    At that moment, Hong, who was sitting at hisputer, typing away at code, answered without pausing his work.


    He naturally set his phone aside and linked it to Bluetooth while continuing his flurry of keystrokes.


    The sound of typing was so loud that Ji Yu could hear just how furious he was through the phone.


    "Sister Yu, don¡¯t even start¡ªI¡¯m pissed off!"


    "Tian just called me earlier¡ªI hadn¡¯t even noticed this mess until then, and by the time I got wind of it, the whole thing had already gone viral! I¡¯m tracking the IP right now. Give me a minute; I¡¯ll have it pinned down soon."


    Hearing his confident tone, Ji Yu didn¡¯t rush him.


    After all, she had just wrapped up her negotiations on this end¡ªthere was plenty of time to wait for updates from Hong¡¯s side.


    However, just as Ji Yu rxed, waiting for news, her other phone rang.


    She nced at the iing call¡ªit was Feng Qinqin.


    Ji Yu guessed Feng Qinqin might be upset about the online rumors but recognized that some matters would take time to exin to her.


    Hong¡¯s progress wasn¡¯t something Feng Qinqin knew about as of yet, so Ji Yu ended up cutting the call short.


    She offered a few consoling words, promising a detailed exnationter in the evening.


    Understanding Ji Yu¡¯s current busyness, while still angry, Feng Qinqin refrained from bothering her further.


    Just as Ji Yu finished handling Feng Qinqin¡¯s concerns, Hong delivered the news.


    "Sister Yu, I found it! The IP points to Beijing, but after hacking into theirputer, I realized their desktop looks oddly familiar. They might be a professional hacker hired for this."


    Hearing that the issue involved a professional hacker, Ji Yu¡¯s expression turned icy.


    Whoever it was, the incident unequivocally targeted her¡ªor perhaps From New.


    "Between the online negative rumors about From New and myself, which are circting more actively?"


    "Let me check."


    After hearing Ji Yu¡¯s inquiry, Hong quickly resumed typing on his keyboard, soon arriving at an answer.


    "Sister Yu, it seems they¡¯re gunning for you."


    "Based on the relevant posts, any mention of From New happens alongside mentions of you, so it¡¯s evident they¡¯re manipting this situation to specifically target you."


    "Sister Yu, you... you¡¯ve upset someone recently?"


    Hong couldn¡¯t fathom who would want to take Ji Yu down. After all, she was known to be kind-hearted and unlikely to incite hostility from others.


    Yet, the reality said otherwise.


    After hearing what she wanted, Ji Yu began to piece together possible suspects.


    She casually brushed off Hong¡¯s doubts and hung up the phone.


    Because at this moment, one thought dominated Ji Yu¡¯s mind: this could involve Gu Qixiao. Perhaps it was Gu Qixiao acting on behalf of his little me and going to such lengths against her.


    As Ji Yu entertained these thoughts, she quickly looked up Gu Qixiao¡¯s phone number.


    Her fingers darted across her phone, crafting a sinct message. Shortly thereafter, Gu Qixiao¡¯s phone pinged with the notification:


    [President Gu, a stab in the back¡ªwhat a shocking move.]

 Chapter 35 It’s what I did, and I’ll own up to it!

    <h4>Chapter 35: Chapter 35 It¡¯s what I did, and I¡¯ll own up to it!</h4>


    Gu Qixiao, too busy to pay attention to the messages on his phone, rushed through the entire night.


    After Ji Yu learned that the other party¡¯s actions were aimed solely at her, she immediately contacted Tian to announce publicly that she had suspended her work and was awaiting the final investigation results.


    Before releasing the announcement, Ji Yu even coordinated in advance with Zhou Haiyan on the arrangements for Dion¡¯s surgery.


    After all, moves like this weren¡¯t minor; if any issues arose, they couldplicate things considerably.


    Once Ji Yu had handled everything and returned to her apartment, she opened the door to find not only Feng Qinqin but also the presence of Ji Yuanzhou.


    "Brother? What are you doing here?"


    Already utterly exhausted, Ji Yu had been strategizing on how to deal with Feng Qinqin, but upon seeing Ji Yuanzhou, her headache worsened tenfold.


    Feng Qinqin, being rather naive, was rtively easy to handle.


    But Ji Yuanzhou was a different story altogether.


    Not only was Ji Yuanzhou meticulous by nature, but thinking about the peculiar feelings he had expressed toward her before drove Ji Yu nearly insane.


    "Mom and Dad saw the news online and got worried about you, so they asked me to check in on you. Coincidentally, Qinqin was here when I knocked, so I just waited inside."


    Ji Yu had no way to argue against Ji Yuanzhou¡¯s reasoning, so she decided to give them both a brief exnation.


    The online news coverage was very direct, so the countermeasure Ji Yu and her team devised was also swift.


    She initially spent over half an hour finalizing the n with Zhou Haiyan, but once they determined the general content with Hong, Tian quickly drafted the proposal.


    Ultimately, it took merely an hour and a half for Ji Yu¡¯s crisis management team to address the situation fully.


    After omitting Hong¡¯s part from the story, Ji Yu briefly recounted the matter to Ji Yuanzhou and Feng Qinqin.


    Knowing that Ji Yu had several highlypetent assistants under her, they didn¡¯t question her exnation.


    At least, that¡¯s what it seemed like on the surface.


    "Since you don¡¯t have any work lined up recently, why note home for a few days?"


    Hearing the suggestion to stay at home for a few days, Ji Yu¡¯s instinctive reaction was to reject it outright!


    She hadn¡¯t yet found the right time to exin to Madam Ji and Mr. Ji that she had already divorced Gu Qixiao. For now, she could use the excuse that Feng Qinqin wanted to stay with her since living in the marital home wasn¡¯t convenient.


    Imagining the consequences of Ji Yuanzhou learning about her divorce, Ji Yu refused immediately.


    "No, brother. I only said I wouldn¡¯t work publicly¡ªit¡¯s because I have an important surgery scheduled soon."


    "Ask Qinqin if you don¡¯t believe me. She¡¯s been so upsettely that she asked me to keep herpany, and I barely have the energy left for anything!"


    Whileing up with excuses on the spot, Ji Yu shot meaningful nces at Feng Qinqin.


    Though Feng Qinqin wasn¡¯t the sharpest, she still picked up on Ji Yu¡¯s signals.


    "That¡¯s right, Brother Yuanzhou! I have so many things I need to chat about with Yuyu. You¡¯d better head home early!"


    As she spoke, Feng Qinqin unceremoniously ushered Ji Yuanzhou toward the door.


    Despite lingering concerns in Ji Yuanzhou¡¯s heart, he couldn¡¯t resist thebined effort of the two women urging him out.


    Ultimately, he left with a look of helplessness. But shortly after he returned home, Ji Yu still received a text message from him.


    [Yuyu, don¡¯t push yourself too hard. No matter what happens, your brother will always be here for you.]


    Staring at Ji Yuanzhou¡¯s message on her phone, Ji Yu could only hope he would understand that they could only ever be siblings.


    She desperately wished Ji Yuanzhou would stop entertaining any other thoughts about her...


    After helping Ji Yu send Ji Yuanzhou away, Feng Qinqin initially wanted to ask more questions but, upon seeing how exhausted Ji Yu looked, couldn¡¯t bring herself to do so in the end.


    Perhaps due to how busy she had been, Ji Yu fell asleep not long after a quick wash-up.


    In fact, it was the deepest sleep she had had in years.


    By the time the sky began to brighten the following day, Gu Qixiao had finally wrapped up his work and was preparing to rest briefly.


    Yet the moment he opened his phone, he saw a strange message awaiting him.


    The sender¡¯s name disyed as none other than "Doctor Ji."


    Already overwhelmed by days of work, Gu Qixiao felt his head throb even more upon seeing another one of Ji Yu¡¯s baffling messages.


    At only four in the morning, he immediately messaged Assistant Li, demanding information about Ji Yu¡¯s recent situation without any context or preamble.


    "Assistant Li, I want a full report first thing at work on Doctor Ji¡¯s recent activities."


    Hearing the abrupt order before the call was disconnected, Assistant Li, still half-asleep, nced at the clock¡ªit was only 4 a.m. He nearly lost his mind right then and there.


    Grumbling internally, though reluctant, Assistant Li quickly booted up hisputer to investigate.


    After an exhausting three hours of working unpaid overtime at home, by 7 a.m., he had given up on the idea of catching up on lost sleep entirely.


    Too drained to drive himself, he ordered a cab and made his way straight to Gus Group¡¯s headquarters.


    By nine sharp, Assistant Li knocked on the door of Gu Qixiao¡¯s office.


    "Come in."


    Hearing Gu Qixiao¡¯s response, Assistant Li hurriedly entered and handed over the neatly organized report on Ji Yu that he had prepared.


    As he passed the documents to his boss, he exined the contents in detail.


    "Recently, negative rumors about Doctor Ji have inexplicably surfaced online. In just one day yesterday, Doctor Ji and Chongxin climbed to the top of trending media tforms across ny percent of the outlets."


    "From the investigation, someone used Doctor Ji of being an ipetent doctor. They imed she disfigured a patient during treatment and even refused to provide any follow-up care..."


    The further Assistant Li borated, the more uneasy he felt.


    The entire situation bore an uncanny resemnce to the earlier controversy involving Song Xuan. If not for the fact that Gu Qixiao hadn¡¯t instructed him to do this, he would¡¯ve assumed this was his boss¡¯s handiwork.


    "Boss, I can¡¯t shake the feeling that..."


    "This feels eerily simr to Miss Song¡¯s case."


    Despite fearing a scolding, Assistant Li voiced his suspicion out loud.


    It wasn¡¯t just Assistant Li who thought this¡ªGu Qixiao himself had found the details utterly perplexing.


    However, taking advantage of others¡¯ misfortunes wasn¡¯t his style. He couldn¡¯t stoop to such tactics.


    Though Gu Qixiao knew he wasn¡¯t responsible, Ji Yu didn¡¯t know any better.


    Thinking back to her cryptic message, he finally grasped her insinuation.


    Though he saw no need to clear his name, Gu Qixiao wasn¡¯t about to let others dump the me on him either.


    After dismissing Assistant Li, he dialed Ji Yu¡¯s number immediately. Yet, after three attempts, all his calls were declined on her end.


    And Gu Qixiao was sure¡ªshe had explicitly rejected his calls rather than blocking him.


    Feeling thoroughly exasperated, Gu Qixiao had no choice but to resort to messaging her as she had done before.


    [Doctor Ji, stop throwing baseless usations. If I do something, I¡¯ll own up to it.]


    [However, this matter has nothing to do with me!]

 Chapter 36 President Gu Needs No Explanation

    <h4>Chapter 36: Chapter 36 President Gu Needs No Exnation</h4>


    When Ji Yu saw the messages from Gu Qixiao, she had just stepped out of the operating room.


    Although the online smear campaign had caused some negative impact on Renew, the surgeries that were arranged earlier still proceeded as nned.


    Moreover, Zhou Haiyan was nearly desperate enough to offer herself to Ji Yu, just to ensure she performed the surgery for Dion.


    Perhaps influenced by the sibling bond between Zhou Haiyan and Dion, Ji Yu found herself adding genuine emotions during hermunication with Zhou Haiyan.


    After all, before Ji Yu understood what love really meant, she shared the same kind of intimate rtionship with Ji Yuanzhou.


    If not for realizing Ji Yuanzhou had developed inappropriate feelings toward her, she might have continued to maintain a rtionship akin to Zhou Haiyan and Dion¡¯s.


    "Doctor Ji, how did Dion¡¯s surgery go?"


    Looking at Zhou Haiyan continuously inquiring in front of her, Ji Yu smiled sincerely before offering reassurance.


    "Please don¡¯t worry, Sister Yan, Mr. Zhou¡¯s surgery was very sessful. Once the anesthesia wears off, focus on recovery. The assistant surgeon will reach out to youter regarding the precautions."


    "I still have some matters to handle right now. If there¡¯s anything else, we can talkter in my office."


    Hearing Ji Yu mention she had other work to attend to, Zhou Haiyan didn¡¯t try to stop her.


    Now, after handling everything, Ji Yu looked at the messages from Gu Qixiao on her phone, a cold sneer emerging from her heart.


    "Does this Gu Qixiao think I¡¯m an idiot or something?"


    "Who admits to wrongdoing aftermitting it?"


    Ji Yu had initially been debating whether to reply to Gu Qixiao¡¯s messages when her thoughts were interrupted by a knock on the door.


    Upon seeing Gu Qixiao behind another assistant, Ji Yu finally understood what was going on.


    Dion¡¯s surgery had taken a long time, not due to itsplexity, but because it required multiple procedures across arge affected area.


    Apart from spending six hours on facial restoration for Dion, Ji Yu also conducted skin graft surgeries on his entire body over the course of a subsequent week.


    The fact that she was now able to reach her office and even sit down to think was a testament to her exceptional physical and mental endurance as a reconstructive surgeon.


    Even so, Ji Yu¡¯s energy was nearly depleted; she had little strength left for dealing with Gu Qixiao.


    "Apologies, President Gu, I don¡¯t have the time to meet with you right now."


    Exhausted and ready to send Gu Qixiao away, Ji Yu¡¯s attempt was met with defiance.


    In Gu Qixiao¡¯s mind, Ji Yu had deliberately ignored his messages for three days, seemingly targeting him. He hadn¡¯t even considered other possibilities.


    After all, who could go nearly a week without checking their phone?


    But Gu Qixiao¡¯s assumptions were wrong.


    Aside from surgery hours, Ji Yu had to rest and eat adequately every day.


    The assisting surgical team¡ªapart from Tian as her primary aid¡ªhad changed shifts three or four times just to keep up with the surgery¡¯s demands.


    With such an exhausting schedule, it wasn¡¯t just his messages she ignored; even if death itself came knocking to negotiate for souls, she¡¯d probably tell it to buzz off.


    "Doctor Ji certainly carries herself with remarkable air!"


    "How can a doctor already suspended by the hospital possibly be so busy? Next time, Doctor Ji, pleasee up with a more reasonable excuse."


    Faced with Gu Qixiao¡¯s clearly disbelieving expression, Ji Yu, already fatigued, erupted with anger.


    "President Gu, do you think your actions are wless, or do you assume I¡¯m just a cowardly stic surgeon?"


    "Does President Gu believe we¡¯re acting out of fear? No! If we weren¡¯t concerned about the emotional impact on patients, Renew would have refuted these lies from the moment they surfaced!"


    Ji Yu¡¯s rebuttal left Gu Qixiao dumbfounded.


    He had thought Ji Yu was intentionally antagonizing him and had sent messages just to provoke her.


    His visit to Ji Yu today was supposed to be an attempt to exin and set things straight.


    After all, he truly hadn¡¯t done any of this.


    Moreover, he despised such underhanded tactics and didn¡¯t want his name tarnished by association.


    Yet, the moment he arrived at Ji Yu¡¯s office, the atmosphere turned into thisbative scenario.


    Caught in a dilemma, Gu Qixiao decided not to apologize outright.


    After all, in moments like this, whoever apologized first gave up their leverage!


    Standing behind Gu Qixiao, Assistant Li found himself indecisive after observing the situation unfold.


    He nced at Gu Qixiao and then at Ji Yu, hoping to discern any opportunity for reconciliation from their faces.


    Assistant Li could sense Gu Qixiao¡¯s unwillingness to apologize out of pride, but when he looked at Ji Yu¡ª


    Why did it seem like Doctor Ji was truly exhausted?


    Nheless, knowing this wasn¡¯t the time for such thoughts, Assistant Li quickly gathered his focus.


    After a moment, he finally reacted, slowly stepping in to offer an exnation.


    "This isn¡¯t how it looks, Doctor Ji. We¡¯re here today mainly to exin..."


    Hearing Assistant Li mention an exnation, Ji Yu immediately recognized this wasn¡¯t Gu Qixiao¡¯s doing. Yet, sharing his same unwillingness to back down, she refused to yield.


    "Exin? President Gu, there¡¯s no need for exnations. The incident has already urred¡ªthere¡¯s no point in discussing it now!"


    "Wei Lai, escort them out!"


    The assistant named Wei Lai ushered Gu Qixiao and Assistant Li out of the office. Only when they had left did Ji Yu finally find a chance to properly rest.


    As for the smear campaign online¡ª


    It had been circting for a week already. A few more days wouldn¡¯t make much difference.


    ...


    Meanwhile, professional hacker H, still monitoring the smear campaign online, was casually chewing on bread, assuming everything had settled after a week.


    But just as he let his guard down, theputer screen suddenly began to change!


    The pages filled with news about Renew and the famed reconstructive surgeon Ji Yu were abruptly closed, and a previously dormant programming softwareunched with a newly created document.


    H watched as the other party typed lines of code into hisputer,pletely unbothered by the possibility that he might understand the program¡¯s logic.


    H wanted to move the mouse but found his systempletely hacked, unable to respond. He realized he¡¯d encountered a true expert.


    Still, why would the other party go to such lengths?


    Until the code was fully entered by the other party, H couldn¡¯t understand what was happening, despite being a highly skilled hacker himself.


    It wasn¡¯t until he saw the word "END" typed into the document that theputer activity suddenly ceased.


    H stared nkly at the screen. After ten minutes, he tentatively moved the mouse.


    Upon regaining control, he pressed the "ENTER" key.


    The bread he had been chewing dropped to the floor, and an involuntary exmation escaped his lips.


    "Holy shit!"

 Chapter 37 Starting Anew, I’ve Got You Covered

    <h4>Chapter 37: Chapter 37 Starting Anew, I¡¯ve Got You Covered</h4>


    The ck background and white text on theputer screen stood out sharply.


    H stared at the words on the screen, his legs trembling uncontrobly.


    A very brief message had lingered on theputer screen for over an hour, making H itch to immediately call his close brother for help.


    "If you¡¯re starting over, I¡¯ve got your back. ¡ª R"


    If the other party hadn¡¯t initially performed like this in front of H, he might¡¯ve simply thought the person was a fake R.


    After all, R was a figure synonymous with chaos and fame in the entire hackermunity.


    R, short for Red.


    The incredibly short name was enough to shake the entire circle upon its appearance.


    As the owner of that name, Hong hadn¡¯t heard any news from Ji Yu or Tian after wrapping things up on H¡¯s side. Seeing the tide of nderous messages piling online, he was seething with rage.


    He wanted to return.


    For a moment, the urge to return intensified, but then he remembered Ji Yu forbidding him froming back after her marriage three years ago. Eventually, he held back.


    Meanwhile, overseas, Lu Xingchen had just finished a month-long secluded training session.


    To secure a role under a renowned director, he had specifically traveled to a private ind abroad for intensive coaching.


    It wasn¡¯t because the domestic environment wasn¡¯t good, but because he didn¡¯t want his fans to find out prematurely about projects he wasn¡¯t entirely confident in.


    After all, in his view, raising expectations only to deliver disappointment was too dreadful.


    As a well-known actor, Lu Xingchen couldn¡¯t allow such a situation to ur.


    "Xingchen, Yu is in trouble!"


    Lu Xingchen¡¯s agent, upon seeing the news about Ji Yu online, had been eager to inform him. However, considering his dedication to this particr role, the agent waited until the day Lu Xingchenpleted his training to break the news.


    "What happened?"


    Taking the phone handed to him by his agent, Lu Xingchen¡¯s tone held no urgency as he asked.


    At that moment, he wasn¡¯t aware of what was brewing on the inte. But after seeing the information online, his originally refined expression darkened significantly.


    Especially upon noting the timestamp of the earliest posts, Lu Xingchen¡¯s voice turned severe.


    "Why are you telling me about this a weekter?"


    Fully aware of Ji Yu¡¯s significance in Lu Xingchen¡¯s heart, the agent didn¡¯t dare respond to his anger.


    He had acted in consideration of Lu Xingchen¡¯s career, believing Ji Yu would understand.


    But before Ji Yu could understand, the agent naturally had to bear the brunt of Lu Xingchen¡¯s frustration.


    Though questioning him sharply, Lu Xingchen hadn¡¯t expected a reply from the agent.


    After a brief exchange, Lu Xingchen nced at the time and dialed a number he hadn¡¯t called in three years.


    When Ji Yu married three years ago, she had almost severed ties with all her friends. It wasn¡¯t that she particrly loved Gu Qixiao.


    After all, she hadn¡¯t even seen him much in those three years.


    But to consider her husband¡¯s reputation and avoid potentially messy situations, she had taken precautions before her marriage.


    As a result, over the past three years, only Feng Qinqin and Tian had stayed by Ji Yu¡¯s side.


    Even Hong, who had been recuperating abroad, was mostly taken care of by Tian during that time.


    Ji Yu, who had just woken up from exhaustion, was preparing to step out of the lounge. Upon realizing it wasn¡¯t toote to grab food from the cafeteria, she excitedly wanted to head over for a meal.


    But just as she had quickly tidied herself up, her phone began to ring.


    The name Lu Xingchen appeared prominently on the caller ID, and Ji Yu stared at it in a daze for a long while.


    The name Lu Xingchen was one she hadn¡¯t seen or heard for quite some time.


    "Yu, are you okay?"


    After the call connected, Lu Xingchen wasted no time on pleasantries, directly asking about her well-being.


    The straightforward question left Ji Yu briefly stunned.


    Then, guessing that he was referring to the news from a week ago, she couldn¡¯t help but feel a mix of irony and resignation.


    After all, it had been quite some time since the incident, and only now was Lu Xingchen contacting her.


    "For now, it¡¯s unclear who¡¯s behind the incident, but I¡¯m fine."


    Having scrolled through the past headlines, Lu Xingchen had noticed the statement released by Chongxin Industries. But knowing Ji Yu was the actual boss behind Chongxin, he didn¡¯t probe further.


    After confirming that Ji Yu was unharmed, he asked about her current state. Learning she had just woken up, he decided it was best to end the conversation.


    "Go eat something quickly. I¡¯ll deal with the situation online, so don¡¯t worry too much."


    Ji Yu, who hadn¡¯t felt too strongly about the entire matter, casually responded before heading to the cafeteria.


    For Ji Yu, who had just finished an intense surgery and rested for a while, her hunger was at its peak.


    It wouldn¡¯t be an exaggeration to say she felt like she could eat an entire cow.


    If she hadn¡¯t been worried about upsetting her stomach, she might have genuinely tried.


    When Ji Yu arrived at the cafeteria and saw Tian sitting alone, she quickly grabbed her food and joined her. Noticing Hong on Tian¡¯s phone screen, a small smile appeared on her lips.


    Tian, still unaware of Ji Yu¡¯s presence, was listening to Hong¡¯s grumbling over the video call. It wasn¡¯t until Hong eximed in surprise that Tian realized Ji Yu was standing right behind her.


    "Sister Tian, I¡¯m telling you, I¡¯ve been so angrytely! If it wasn¡¯t for Sister Yu¡¯s orders, I would¡¯ve returned home immediately."


    "Do you have any idea how outrageous and infuriating they¡¯ve been?"


    "Huh? Sister Yu¡¯s here?!"


    Hearing Hong¡¯s exmation, Tian turned to find Ji Yu holding her tray. The two quickly struck up a casual conversation.


    As for Hong on the video call, neither of them wore earphones, effectively ignoring him.


    "This surgery was particrly intense; how are you feeling?"


    While performing surgery on Dion, Ji Yu had noticed his recovery was progressing well, and the operation could bepleted within a week.


    Since the assistant surgeon had been decided in advance and the procedure required excellent coordination, Ji Yu¡ªwho hadn¡¯t used an assistant before¡ªentrusted the role to Tian.


    After the surgery ended, Ji Yu, feeling too fatigued, had forgotten to ask Tian how she had been holding up.


    She wasn¡¯t too worried, however. After all, Tian didn¡¯t handle much of the operation, focusing only on closing stages of the procedure.


    In fact, during the final two surgeries, Ji Yu had managed on her own, insisting Tian take proper rest.


    That strategic workload meant only Ji Yu ended up so exhausted that she¡¯d slept nearly a full day.


    "I can manage."


    Ever since learning of Ji Yu¡¯s expectations, Tian had been diligently studying rted skills, afraid of falling too far behind to perform future operations independently.


    Meanwhile, on the other end of the call, Hong, seeing how engrossed they were in their conversation, grumpily ended the video call in silence.


    But at the same time, on the remote ind abroad...


    "Xingchen, what you¡¯re doing isn¡¯t right!"

 Chapter 38: Savior of the Shadow King

    <h4>Chapter 38: Chapter 38: Savior of the Shadow King</h4>


    Even though the manager was tailing Lu Xingchen closely, worried he might do something outrageous, there wasn¡¯t much he could do¡ªthe man was his own boss after all.


    Plus, there wasn¡¯t any legitimate reason to stop him from doing what he was about to do...


    Ultimately, Lu Xingchen¡¯s manager could only sigh in resignation, watching helplessly as Lu Xingchen coolly started the live stream.


    As the stream abruptly began, Weibo, which had been rtively calm, instantly crashed!


    If it weren¡¯t for Lu Xingchen having his assistant notify the Weibo staff in advance under his name, this impromptu exnation could easily have turned into the biggest meltdown in Weibo¡¯s history.


    Lu Xingchen had spent some time preparing for the live stream. Not wanting fans to assume he was absorbed in preparing for a specific role, he deliberately freshened up and changed into a sleek, modern outfit.


    The usually schrly-looking man appeared moreposed than usual; coupled with his tailored suit, he carried the unmistakable air of an authoritative CEO.


    On top of that, considering Lu Xingchen was the biggest shareholder in his entertainmentpany, rted hashtags featuring "President Lu" soared up the trending list not long after the stream started.


    [The missing person has returned!!!]


    [So d I instinctively checked my phone¡ªI missed you so much, hubby!]


    [President Lu¡¯s outfit tonight is the definition of a refined rogue... watching this at midnight is just... wow.]


    Even though the local time was 10:30 PM, Lu Xingchen¡¯s fanbase was huge and spanned diverse demographics, from teenagers to adults and seniors alike.


    For this reason, Lu Xingchen was certain that after tonight¡¯s broadcast, online discussions would inevitably shift the next day.


    With this confidence in mind, he had opted for ate-night stream.


    In the room, the ckout curtains were drawnpletely. Lu Xingchen gazed at thements section, where fans were going wild, smiling affectionately in response.


    "Hello, everyone. I¡¯m Lu Xingchen. It¡¯s been a month since we¡¯ve talked, and just like the saying goes, ¡¯absence makes the heart grow fonder.¡¯ A month apart feels like a century has passed between us."


    "Today¡¯s stream wasn¡¯t announced in advance¡ªit was a spur-of-the-moment decision. I hope fans who didn¡¯t catch it won¡¯t feel too upset. From now on, unless it¡¯s an exceptional case, I¡¯ll make sure to give you all notice ahead of time."


    With Lu Xingchen adopting a more serious tone, the fans, who had been frenzied moments ago, quickly followed suit and became serious as well.


    Thement section seemed almost synchronized, filled with reassuring messages on behalf of those who couldn¡¯t make it.


    "As I mentioned a month ago, I was going through a period of intensive study and training."


    "Originally, I thought nothing major would happen during that month. But to my surprise, a week ago, my good friend¡ªand lifesaver¡ªgot caught up in overwhelming online abuse!"


    "And me? I turned out to be practically thest person on the inte to find out about it!"


    Lu Xingchen¡¯s dedication to self-improvement was something well-known among his fans. His attitude toward learning often influenced his fanbase, making them simrly self-disciplined and excelling in academics.


    The close connection between fans and their idol was striking. This quality also boosted Lu Xingchen¡¯s fan demographic to higher age brackets over time.


    However, despite his love for learning, Lu Xingchen had one noticeable w:


    Whenever he was immersed in his studies, he would rarely check his phone. He would even go as far as topletely cut off contact with the outside world.


    Paparazzi had tried numerous times to capture stories of him during his study periods, but aside from asional rumors of him traveling for studies or returning to the country, they came up empty-handed.


    Even so, the paps persisted enthusiastically in pursuing Lu Xingchen¡¯s news.


    Some even went as far as applying for jobs at Lu Xingchen¡¯s agency, hoping to fish for inside information!


    But s, President Lu¡¯s schedule was always shrouded in secrecy. To this day, they hadn¡¯t managed to uncover much.


    In fact, some who had gone too far in prying into his private details were suspected by the agency, and once their identities as paparazzi were verified, they were fired despite their high sries.


    [Ahhhhh! Who¡¯s bullying my hubby¡¯s lifesaver?!]


    [Wait¡ªthe lifesaver of Lu the Best Actor? Which incident was it?!]


    [Could it be... could it be the ident during his one-year hiatusst year?!]


    [...]


    Thement section remained lively, with fans showing an abundance of concern for Lu Xingchen.


    "This ordeal stems from one of my personal trips. Back then I had nned to go cycling, but due to health reasons, I had to turn back midway. Exhausted, I ended up in a car ident caused by fatigued driving."


    "Of course, I need to emphasize here¡ªplease don¡¯t replicate my irresponsibility. Always avoid driving while fatigued."


    "At the time, I was hanging by a thread,pletely hopeless about survival. There wasn¡¯t even any signal, so I started recording myst words on my phone..."


    Though Lu Xingchen¡¯s storytelling wasn¡¯t particrly dramatic, fans were riveted simply because the story was a personal experience of their beloved actor.


    Many fans were visibly shaken upon hearing that Lu Xingchen had been close to death; some even broke into tears.


    This also had some unintended consequences: a few kids trying to sneakily watch the stream on their phones were caught by their parents andter given a stern punishment after the stream had ended.


    Meanwhile, thements section was overflowing with crying emojis.


    [Wuwuwu, I can¡¯t believe hubby went through something like this.]


    [Did it hurt back then? Wuwuwu, I didn¡¯t know you¡¯d experienced this...]


    [Longtime fan of President Lu here. Back then, we happened to be near the location he mentioned where someone was being rescued, but I never imagined it was actually President Lu.]


    [Ahhhhh! I know, I know! My older brother always told me not to say anything. I know who he¡¯s talking about!]


    Fans who attended the same school as Ji Yu at the time knew about the incident but had agreed not to disclose anything due to Lu Xingchen¡¯s special status.


    Now, as Lu Xingchen recounted the story, many fans recalled memories that had been buried for years.


    Some even vividly remembered the sight of Lu Xingchen¡¯s blood-covered face...


    Seeing that some fans had caught on to the incident, Lu Xingchen smirked slightly before continuing.


    "Certain individuals in thements have already mentioned it¡ªit¡¯s the event from three years ago."


    "Honestly, I¡¯m not here to justify anything for them. The inte is filled with all kinds of misinformation, and I believe you all can form your own judgments."


    "One more thing: I truly believe that someone who, even as an ordinary student, was willing to save lives will absolutely uphold that integrity when they be a doctor. I don¡¯t think it¡¯s possible for them to mock a patient¡¯s life or dignity for fun."


    After saying his piece, Lu Xingchen ended the stream. He trusted that his fans would be able to discern right from wrong.


    Moreover, many of Ji Yu¡¯s former ssmates had started to speak up. The false rumors about Doctor Ji wouldn¡¯t take long to be reced by more urate updates as news cycles continuously refreshed.

 Chapter 39 I’ll Take You Home

    <h4>Chapter 39: Chapter 39 I¡¯ll Take You Home</h4>


    Since helping Ji Yu handle the online news, Lu Xingchen began heading to another film crew for auditions.


    When he finally seeded in the audition and the official announcement was made, Lu Xingchen had time to return home.


    On the day he returned, countless fans and paparazzi were waiting at the airport.


    The fans were there to catch a glimpse of their long-absent "husband actor," while the paparazzi were more focused on seeing if they could dig up more news about Lu Xingchen after his return.


    After all, in earlier times, Lu Xingchen was never someone who casually helped out a stranger caught in a scandal.


    Even if hemented, it would be just two or three perfunctory or diplomatic remarks.


    But now, in Ji Yu¡¯s case, he¡¯s said so much, leading the paparazzi to sense that something was amiss.


    They suspected that Lu Xingchen might have feelings for his "lifesaving benefactor."


    Over the past three years, whenever Lu Xingchen was asked if he nned on getting married, he never refused to answer. But each time, his response was merely that he hadn¡¯t met the right person yet.


    Now the paparazzi were specting that perhaps something had happened to Doctor Ji in those three years. After all, before preparing their reports on this story, they¡¯d done some investigating.


    During the past three years, Doctor Ji had refused all patient appointments.


    For a doctor who hadn¡¯t taken cases for three years to suddenly return to hospital work, there must be a hidden reason!


    "Did everyone wait long? Thank you for your efforts."


    After getting off the ne, Lu Xingchen took it upon himself to lead his fans to arge open space, minimizing interference with the airport¡¯s operations.


    He instructed his assistants to distribute the small gifts he had prepared in advance for the fans, and, after collecting the handwritten letters from the fans, he carefully reminded them about a few things before finally turning to leave.


    The paparazzi watched as Lu Xingchen left, noted the license te of his vehicle, and quickly informed their colleagues.


    "Lu Xingchen has gone. Folks, keep an eye out for the license te number¡ªBeijing A-7593."


    "Understood."


    ...


    After tailing Lu Xingchen to a caf¨¦, the paparazzi entered and immediately spotted Ji Yu sitting near the window.


    Since Lu Xingchen had chosen the location for their meeting, Ji Yu had assumed he would book a private room. However, upon asking, she discovered all the private rooms had been booked up.


    Unperturbed by theck of a private room, Ji Yu simply chose a spot near the window based on her own preference and sat down.


    The hot cocoa in her hand had already cooled. She stirred the cup idly as she waited for Lu Xingchen to arrive.


    "Yu."


    Everyone around Lu Xingchen knew Ji Yu¡¯s real name, but how they addressed her varied ording to personal habits.


    Hearing someone call her name, Ji Yu raised her head to look at him.


    It had to be said¡ªthe movie star was indeed handsome.


    Even though Gu Qixiao, among the elite circles in the capital, wasn¡¯t considered unattractive, Lu Xingchen¡¯s natural and unadorned movie star charm was far more striking.


    Moreover, his entire being exuded a refined elegance, making Ji Yu feel at ease around him.


    Perhaps because they were just friends, Ji Yu always felt more rxed when interacting with Lu Xingchen.


    "I couldn¡¯t find where your reserved seat was, so I picked a spot I liked."


    Since they were outside the private room, the specific seat didn¡¯t matter much, so Ji Yu chose one based on her own preferences.


    "That¡¯s fine, no problem."


    Having openly supported Ji Yu previously, Lu Xingchen felt that there was no issue with them publicly sharing a coffee together.


    But what he hadn¡¯t anticipated was the team of paparazzi nearby snapping endless photos.


    No matter the angle or the position.


    The paparazzi focused solely on capturing the footage they wanted.


    Their goal this time was to fabricate a scandal between the two. Whether or not there was actual ambiguity between them was irrelevant.


    That¡¯s how paparazzi operated¡ªtraffic first, profit above all.


    Yet, they didn¡¯t rush to edit or release the content immediately. After wrapping up their shoot, most of them left, leaving a couple of people behind to continue monitoring the pair while the rest went back to discuss their next steps.


    Unaware of the paparazzi¡¯s actions, Lu Xingchen and Ji Yu began talking about their lives over the past three years. Back then, Lu Xingchen had been aware of Ji Yu¡¯s marriage.


    At first, Lu Xingchen maintained a congrattory attitude. Butter, once Ji Yu ceased contact with him, he realized she had gone through with the marriage.


    "How have you been these past three years, Yu?"


    Lu Xingchen¡¯s heart was brimming with emotions he couldn¡¯t express. Countless questions he wanted to ask ultimately condensed into a simple "How have you beentely?"


    He wanted to ask Ji Yu if she was divorced, whether her husband treated her well.


    He also wanted to ask if she had children.


    If not, if she was divorced, could he...? Could he?


    "I¡¯m okay. I got divorced a few days ago. Now I¡¯m focusing again on my career. By the way, today I just saw you finalized a new movie project?"


    Ji Yu knew well about Lu Xingchen¡¯s workaholic tendencies. It was actually part of why theyter became good friends.


    She herself had always been the type to be deeplymitted to her work, so she and Lu Xingchen¡ªdespite their different careers¡ªoften discussed ways to dpress, rest, and improve work efficiency after wrapping up exhausting schedules.


    Ji Yu and Lu Xingchen didn¡¯t talk for long; shortly after the paparazzi left, they wrapped up their meeting and left as well.


    But this time, they didn¡¯t go their separate ways.


    Lu Xingchen had instructed his assistant to leave after arriving at the caf¨¦, leaving him with their car keys.


    He needed some time alone, as there were feelings he was still sorting through.


    Especially upon hearing Ji Yu¡¯s mention of her divorce earlier, this need for reflection was only heightened.


    "Let me take you home."


    Originally intending to refuse, Ji Yu felt her resolve wavering under Lu Xingchen¡¯s earnest gaze. Eventually, she acquiesced, letting him take her home.


    After all, some things were bound to be faced sooner orter, weren¡¯t they?


    That gaze¡ªshe had seen it before, in Ji Yuanzhou¡¯s eyes.


    Since Lu Xingchen was the one dropping her off, Ji Yu chose not to return to her own apartment.


    Instead, she got into the car and sent Feng Qinqin a quick message, saying she¡¯d be heading back to the Ji family home that night. After that, she put her phone away, inadvertently missing the explosive news thatter emerged online.


    ...


    Outside the Ji family residence, the paparazzi had long since given up their pursuit due to interference from the security guards.


    As Lu Xingchen opened the car door for Ji Yu, his indescribable expression only served to confirm her suspicions.


    Even though they hadn¡¯t seen each other in three years, and even though their conversation on the way to her house had been minimal.


    Ji Yu could still make out the fervent affection in Lu Xingchen¡¯s gaze.


    Lu Xingchen lingered there, looking at Ji Yu. Though the car door was already open, he remained in ce, blocking her from stepping out.


    After a moment¡¯s thought, Ji Yu, realizing all this would have to be faced eventually, finally broke the silence as Lu Xingchen hesitated to speak.


    "Xingchen, I know what you want to say."


    "What I can tell you is that I got married for personal reasons before¡ªI never loved my ex-husband. But..."

 Chapter 40: Scandal

    <h4>Chapter 40: Chapter 40: Scandal</h4>


    "Yu, I know you don¡¯t have feelings for me in that way."


    Lu Xingchen knew he couldn¡¯t suppress his feelings throughout the journey. After all, his realization that he liked Ji Yu only dawned on him half a year after her wedding.


    Lu Xingchen, who had never liked anyone before, fell for her after she got married. Even he himself found this situation somewhat ironic.


    But since Ji Yu was already married, Lu Xingchen had never expressed much.


    His blessings for Ji Yu never wavered over the years, even though he didn¡¯t know who the victorious rival was before the fight even began.


    "In that case, should we just stay friends?"


    Ji Yu wasn¡¯t sure if the other party could continue treating her like a friend, but the best way to resolve the matter was always to be upfront.


    Though Lu Xingchen was saddened that he was rejected even before he could confess, as someone older, he saw matters of the heart more clearly.


    To him, as long as Ji Yu was happy, it was enough.


    Lu Xingchen handed over the carefully prepared bouquet of pink roses to Ji Yu, then watched her leave before driving home.


    Ji Yu held the bright roses in her hands and froze momentarily.


    If everything hadn¡¯t happened as it did, perhaps she would have experienced a romance by now, preparing to talk about marriage.


    But everything was just a "what if."


    Ji Yu never regretted saving anyone, even if that person was extremely wicked.


    As long as she encountered them, her priority was always to give them a chance to survive.


    On his way home, Lu Xingchen received a call from his agent. Even though he was upset about his failed confession, he still answered the phone.


    "Hey, Lu Ming, don¡¯t you have anything better to do?"


    On the other end of the line, the agent, already fuming from the trending news online, exploded after hearing Lu Xingchen¡¯s words.


    "Lu Xingchen, didn¡¯t you say you were meeting an old friend?"


    "You tell me, how does meeting an old friend end up looking like a secret rendezvous with a lover?"


    "If you¡¯re dating someone, why didn¡¯t you tell me? You¡¯re well past the age for that, and you¡¯ve never relied on a single-status persona. What are you afraid of?!"


    "Where are you now? Get back to thepany immediately!"


    ...


    Listening to Lu Ming¡¯s barrage ofints, Lu Xingchen had no chance to speak.


    As he was about to respond, Lu Ming¡¯s tone turned pleading.


    "President Lu, my dear boss, I¡¯m begging you toe back to thepany right now, okay?"


    Seeing that Lu Ming seemed ready to keep talking, Lu Xingchen hurriedly cut him off.


    "Stop, stop. I¡¯m heading back now. Hanging up. I¡¯ll be at thepany in half an hour."


    The Ji family¡¯s residence wasn¡¯t close to Lu Xingchen¡¯spany, but he drove swiftly to get there.


    While waiting at a traffic light, he nced at the news online and finally realized that he and Ji Yu had been secretly photographed by paparazzi.


    The news even imed that the two of them were secretly dating!


    Upon reading this, Lu Xingchen felt aggrieved. After all, he hadn¡¯t even confessed yet and had already been rejected.


    Ji Yu was someone who left no room for ambiguity. If she didn¡¯t like someone, she simply didn¡¯t like them.


    Her agreement to marry Mr. Gu and Gu Qixiao back then was also due to her pragmatic nature.


    Even though she had never met Gu Qixiao, she proceeded that way because it was the most suitable solution at the time.


    "These people, seriously..."


    Lu Xingchen felt a mix of frustration over the rumors and excitement at being linked romantically with Ji Yu.


    But soon, he brushed aside this inappropriate thought.


    He swiftly dialed Ji Yu¡¯s number. Meanwhile, Ji Yu, pacing around in the living room, had no idea how to exin the bouquet of flowers.


    At that moment, Lu Xingchen¡¯s call came through, and she quickly answered.


    "Yu, are you alright?"


    Unaware of the news circting online, Ji Yu assured Lu Xingchen that she was fine, reminded him to stay safe, and then hung up.


    But looking at the news online and being bombarded by Feng Qinqin¡¯s nonstop messages was giving Ji Yu a headache!


    "Why does the headline seem to have a grudge against me?"


    Ji Yu muttered quietly as she scrolled through the online news.


    The trending topics on Weibo had already changed.


    #DoctorJiAndFilmEmperorLu#


    #LuXingchenRomanceRumor#


    #ARescuedLifeShouldBeRepaidWithLove#


    Countless trending phrases involving Ji Yu and Lu Xingchen filled the inte, with "Explosive!" written all over them. Meanwhile, the paparazzipanies responsible for the articles were sitting back, ready to cash in.


    Doctor Ji, who had only recently faded from the trending list, was once again on it, which infuriated Hong when he saw the news.


    But upon noticing the person in the photo was Lu Xingchen, Hong chuckled and decided to do something else.


    ...


    At the Gu family¡¯s old residence, Mr. Gu had originally just been listening to the online news. By identally swiping his phone, he saw the photos in the article of Lu Xingchen and Ji Yu together!


    "Yu?!"


    Seeing the news, Mr. Gu lost hisposure and immediately called Gu Qixiao to scold him.


    Already frustrated by financial discrepancies in the data, Gu Qixiao was even more enraged after being berated by Mr. Gu over the phone.


    But Mr. Gu hung up immediately after his tirade, leaving Gu Qixiao with no chance to respond.


    "What is going on with this data? I¡¯m paying you to work like this?!"


    Looking at the phone, which now disyed a dead line, Gu Qixiao threw the financial report onto the table.


    The group of people in front of him, intimidated by his fury, didn¡¯t dare to say a word.


    Assistant Li stood silently on one side, gesturing for the others to leave quickly. He then followed suit, quietly shutting the meeting room door.


    As Gu Qixiao vented his anger, Ji Yu finally managed to wrap up a call and dialed Mr. Gu herself.


    "Dad, don¡¯t worry, there¡¯s absolutely nothing between us."


    "That person is just my friend, yes, yes! Just a regr friend whom I haven¡¯t seen in ages. We simply met up."


    "I¡¯lle back to see you tomorrow. I came home to visit my mom and dad today..."


    After finally appeasing Mr. Gu over the phone, Ji Yu ced the bouquet of roses on the living room table.


    She poured herself a ss of cold water and downed it, finally feeling somewhat at ease.


    In just one day, she had to ward off one confession and dodge schemes aimed at her...


    Thinking the nightmare was finally over, Ji Yu turned and headed to her room for some rest, only to find herself face-to-face with Ji Yuanzhou.


    Ji Yuanzhou had just finished reading the online gossip, and he had seen the male protagonist of the rumor dropping Ji Yu off.


    "What¡¯s going on with you?"

 Chapter 41 Preparing to Slip Away

    <h4>Chapter 41: Chapter 41 Preparing to Slip Away</h4>


    "Huh? Brother, why are you out here..."


    Already feeling guilty about the flowers, Ji Yu became even more uneasy upon seeing Ji Yuanzhou. She was terrified that he might ask where the flowers came from at this moment.


    Fortunately, Ji Yuanzhou didn¡¯t seem to intend to ask about that.


    Having seen Lu Xingchen upstairs just now, Ji Yuanzhou naturally didn¡¯t recognize him, but he knew that Ji Yu¡¯s husband was Gu Qixiao, someone whose existence had been imprinted on him since childhood.


    At the very least, one thing he could confirm: the person who had just sent Ji Yu home wasn¡¯t Gu Qixiao, but another man.


    And considering the rumors online about Ji Yu and the famous actor, even an idiot could guess who that man was.


    "I saw you came back, so I came downstairs. Yu, are you and Gu Qixiao having problems?"


    At this moment, Ji Yu didn¡¯t pay much attention to Ji Yuanzhou¡¯sment about seeing her return. Her mind was too preupied with figuring out how to respond to his question about their rtionship.


    There was no way she could tell him about her divorce, and it seemed that what was online couldn¡¯t be hidden either...


    "Brother, you¡¯re overthinking. All that online stuff is just baseless rumors. I just missed Mom and Dad, so I came back to visit them."


    "If there¡¯s nothing else, I¡¯ll head upstairs to change. Where are Mom and Dad?"


    Ji Yu tried to keep calm, steering their conversation back to reality as much as possible.


    Ji Yuanzhou naturally saw through her careful phrasing, but in the end, he epted her stance.


    "Alright, go ahead."


    Just as Ji Yu was about to head upstairs, her foot nearly faltered on the staircase when she heard Ji Yuanzhou¡¯s words.


    "Yu, remember, your brother will always be here for you. No matter what happens, I¡¯ll always have your back."


    This wasn¡¯t the first time Ji Yuanzhou had said this to her. Even though he knew Ji Yu was already married, he still spoke to her this way.


    Just like when they were kids, he hoped to always be by her side.


    Ji Yu was momentarily stunned by his words. After taking a deep breath with her eyes closed, she gave a small nod.


    The memories of her childhood seemed toe flooding back, but sadly, time had passed, and everything had already changed.


    Ji Yu had no choice but to continue heading upstairs. Before long, she ran into Mr. Ji and Madam Ji, who were about toe downstairs.


    Their conversation drifted into Ji Yu¡¯s ears.


    "Quick, go call Yuanzhou! We need to discuss what to do about Yu¡¯s matter!"


    "Alright, alright! Be careful on the stairs, though! At your age, why are you still so reckless? I¡¯ll go now, but watch your step¡ªI said watch the stairs! Why are you ring at me?!"


    "I know, I know, I¡¯ll call Yu right now..."


    The couple were busy orchestrating their respective ns,pletely oblivious to the fact that Ji Yu and Ji Yuanzhou were downstairs the whole time.


    Ji Yu had only made it halfway up the stairs and thought she¡¯d have to wait untilter toe down again after seeing her parents in such a hurry.


    Madam Ji, in her rush, failed to notice Ji Yu on the stairs. She even brushed past Ji Yu before realizing it a momentter upon hearing her voice.


    "Mom."


    Just as she was about to confirm her instincts, Mr. Ji¡¯s voice rang out from upstairs.


    "Meiqin, Yuanzhou isn¡¯t home. Did you get in touch with Yu?"


    "Huh? Yu, you¡¯re back?"


    The two back-to-back remarks made Madam Ji, who thought she might¡¯ve been imagining things, turn her head. She didn¡¯t stop hurrying downstairs, even while feeling confused.


    In the process of turning, she almost lost her footing.


    Thankfully, Ji Yuanzhou was there at the bottom of the stairs.


    "Yuanzhou¡¯s right here downstairs!"


    "Ah! Yu, you¡¯re back?"


    Mr. and Madam Ji quickly found Ji Yu and Ji Yuanzhou, and before long, the whole family was gathered in the living room.


    "Yu, what¡¯s all this stuff on the inte about?"


    "Exactly, Yu, how could something this bige up without you telling us?"


    Having gone downstairs because of the rumors online, Mr. and Madam Ji began bombarding Ji Yu with questions out of concern, one sitting to her left, the other to her right.


    Though they wanted toy some me on Gu Qixiao, knowing his difficult reputation made them hold back on openly criticizing him.


    Instead, they focused on Ji Yu¡¯s situation.


    In their hearts, however, Mr. and Madam Ji worried that the rumors online might actually be true.


    Especially since Ji Yu had been married for years now, yet they¡¯d never once met Gu Qixiao.


    This fact alone was enough to make them suspicious.


    On top of that, when simr rumors surfaced online previously, neither Gu¡¯s Group nor Gu Qixiao had addressed them or given any exnation to their family.


    Thinking about this made Madam Ji feel even more heartbroken for Ji Yu.


    She was even beginning to wonder if the rumors about Ji Yu were true. If they were, then so be it¡ªthey¡¯d just get a divorce from the Gu family!


    All they wanted was for Ji Yu to find her true happiness. As for anything else, it wasn¡¯t important.


    Even if Ji Yu really made a mistake, at worst, they¡¯d bleed a little financially or move somewhere else to start anew. Nothing was worthpromising her happiness.


    Of course, Ji Yu wasn¡¯t aware of Madam Ji¡¯s inner thoughts. Afraid that her parents might overthink things, she hurried to exin.


    "Don¡¯t worry too much about the stuff online. Xingchen is an old friend I met during graduate school when he was injured. I helped him back then, and we¡¯ve been good friends ever since. He saw the recent rumors about me online and got worried, so after returning to the country..."


    "Dad, Mom, you don¡¯t have to worry about me. These stories will disappear in a couple of days."


    Hearing her exnation, Madam Ji felt somewhat relieved.


    But Mr. Ji didn¡¯t think things were as simple as that. The look in the man¡¯s eyes in the photos online seemed all too familiar to him.


    It was the kind of look he himself had once shown in his younger days.


    "That Lu Xingchen¡ªdoes he have feelings for you?"


    Ji Yu was taken aback upon hearing her father¡¯s question, thinking all the issues had just been resolved.


    She hadn¡¯t expected Mr. Ji to reach that conclusion¡ªand to say it out loud so bluntly!


    "Um..." For a moment, Ji Yu felt conflicted.


    "Yes. But I¡¯ve already handled it."


    "Alright, as long as that¡¯s the case. Yu, you¡¯re already Gu¡¯s daughter-inw, so you need to be mindful of certain things. Make sure to exin all this to your husband tomorrow when you go home. After all, small misunderstandings like this shouldn¡¯te between your rtionship."


    Hearing her father¡¯s sincere concern, Ji Yu felt a bit embarrassed.


    To Mr. and Madam Ji, though, it simply looked like a young woman¡¯s shyness about discussing her husband, nothing more.


    The two exchanged a knowing smile and didn¡¯t press further.


    Seeing that her parents were no longer dwelling on the topic, Ji Yu seized the chance to make her exit.


    "Dad, Mom, I¡¯m heading upstairs now."


    "Go on, go on!" Mr. and Madam Ji urged her lovingly.


    After Ji Yu went upstairs and they heard the sound of her door closing, their expressions changed as they turned to Ji Yuanzhou.


    "Yuanzhou, do you know what¡¯s really going on?"

 Chapter 42 I really don’t know this time...

    <h4>Chapter 42: Chapter 42 I really don¡¯t know this time...</h4>


    "Dad, this time I really don¡¯t know..."


    Thest time news about Ji Yu¡¯s hospital surfaced, Ji Yuanzhou intentionally kept it from Madam Ji and Mr. Ji for a while. But the matter was just too big, and they ended up finding out.


    Ever since that incident, Ji Yuanzhou had be nothing more than a scoundrel in Madam Ji and Mr. Ji¡¯s eyes¡ªsomeone who only cared about his sister while keeping his parents in the dark.


    Although being misunderstood like this by his parents felt a bit unfair, Ji Yuanzhou truly didn¡¯t know anything this time.


    After all, celebrity gossip in the entertainment industry often revolves around opportunistic behavior¡ªso long as the parties involved aren¡¯t backed by an overly powerful figure, rumors will multiply endlessly.


    Initially, the news about Ji Yu didn¡¯t get suppressed with heavy-handed intervention by capital, which led those paparazzipanies to think they could exploit Lu Xingchen for ckmailing purposes.


    Unfortunately, somew-breaking ideas really shouldn¡¯t exist.


    ...


    "Hey Yuyu, are you okay?"


    After going upstairs, Feng Qinqin¡¯s call happened toe through. Having just dealt with Madam Ji and Mr. Ji, Ji Yu began recounting the events to Feng Qinqin.


    "So, what you mean is... Lu Xingchen likes you? But in reality, you have no interest in him at all?"


    "Yuyu, you¡¯ve already divorced your ex. If you think he¡¯s suitable, why don¡¯t you just give it a shot~"


    "That¡¯s Lu Xingchen, a film emperor!"


    "THE film emperor!"


    On the other end of the call, Feng Qinqin¡¯s voice was filled with excitement.


    You couldn¡¯t really me her. Anyone finding out that their best friend was confessed to by a film emperor would probably react in the same way. But Ji Yu didn¡¯t feel particrly happy about it.


    She had never imagined anything happening between herself and Lu Xingchen.


    In her view, love required mutual attraction and connection. A one-sided, overwhelming interest couldn¡¯t bring hersting happiness.


    However, because the other party was Lu Xingchen, she certainly couldn¡¯t help but share her divorce news with him.


    If she had known Lu Xingchen would behave this way upon learning about her marriage, Ji Yu would have bitten her tongue eight hundred times over before spilling the beans!


    "Alright, don¡¯t overthink this anymore. I¡¯ve never had those kinds of feelings for Xingchen. We became friends simply because, after being immersed in work, we both sought ways to recharge ourselves."


    "Yuyu, you..."


    "Qinqin, I¡¯ll call you backter! There¡¯s a calling in on my work phone."


    Feng Qinqin, who had been about to say something more, was interrupted by Ji Yu and forgot what she was going to say.


    Being used to Ji Yu¡¯s workaholic tendencies, Feng Qinqin could only sigh helplessly.


    But remembering that she originally became best friends with Ji Yu because of her unique personality, Feng Qinqin smiled in resignation.


    After hanging up Feng Qinqin¡¯s call, Ji Yu answered her other phone¡ªit was Gu Qixiao calling.


    To be honest, Ji Yu initially didn¡¯t want to take Gu Qixiao¡¯s call. After all, she didn¡¯t think they had anything particrly worth discussing.


    The moment the call connected, Gu Qixiao¡¯s voice rang out before Ji Yu could say anything.


    "I heard Doctor Ji encountered some troubles. I wonder if you¡¯d need Mr. Gu to help handle the public opinion online?"


    "I suppose Doctor Ji wouldn¡¯t want her husband to discover these matters about her and her lover, would she?"


    Ji Yu, who originally had no idea why Gu Qixiao was calling, found his words amusing.


    "Is this Gu Qixiao feeling he¡¯s being cuckolded?"


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t respond to the question on the call, instead ridiculing him silently in her mind.


    Regardless of Ji Yu¡¯sck of response, Gu Qixiao pressed ahead with his intentions.


    "As long as Doctor Ji agrees to perform surgery for me, I guarantee all online news about this matter will be dealt with. The question is, will Doctor Ji..."


    "No need to trouble yourself, President Gu."


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t wait for Gu Qixiao to finish his sentence; his meaning was already crystal clear.


    Help me with this surgery, and I¡¯ll help you eliminate the rumors online.


    I can even ensure your husband remains unaware of these things.


    If it were someone else, Gu Qixiao¡¯s approach might actually work.


    But since this involved Ji Yu, who had already divorced her husband, she couldn¡¯t care less.


    Even if the rumors eventually became true, she wouldn¡¯t feel the need to worry.


    As for Mr. Gu, she could just exin things briefly when the time came.


    Besides, her rtionship with Lu Xingchen was purely tonic. Calling him "brother" was simply a reflection of their age gap.


    Above all, it was a way of expressing respect.


    "Doctor Ji, I advise you to reconsider!"


    Gu Qixiao¡¯s threats were apparent, yet Ji Yu found them somewhatughable.


    Her impression of Gu Qixiao took another plunge.


    Leaving aside whether they were divorced, she had never seen anyone so eager to impose a cuckold narrative on themselves.


    "President Gu, there¡¯s no need to worry. Although this is something I don¡¯t need to inform you about, I¡¯ll still say it¡ªI¡¯m currently single and unmarried."


    The words "single" and "unmarried" were repeatedly emphasized by Ji Yu, and even through the phone, she could imagine how ugly Gu Qixiao¡¯s expression must be.


    In his office, reviewing contracts, Gu Qixiao was livid after hearing this. He was convinced Ji Yu was aplete liar.


    Just days ago, he saw her rejecting someone¡¯s confession by citing her marriage, even wearing a genuine wedding ring!


    Now, to avoid being threatened by him, she suddenly blurts out lies like this?


    Ji Yu naturally didn¡¯t know what Gu Qixiao was thinking, but she vaguely heard the screeching sound of something like a pen scraping paper in frustration.


    It seemed to her like the sound might be caused by the force he was exerting while writing in anger.


    "What¡¯s this guy up to, calling me?"


    Ji Yu couldn¡¯t figure out his motives and felt both curious about his behavior and exasperated by his childish threats.


    Meanwhile, in his office, Gu Qixiao¡¯s simmering rage peaked after seeing thest set of data on the report.


    Apanied by the sound of documents hitting the floor, Gu Qixiao spoke again over the phone.


    "Doctor Ji, lying like this isn¡¯t right! I¡¯ll give you half a day to think it through. I expect an answer from you before eight o¡¯clock tonight."


    If it had been anyone else, Gu Qixiao wouldn¡¯t have even granted them time to consider.


    But Ji Yu was his best chance at swiftly solving the issue involving Song Xuan, so he had no choice but to proceed this way.


    Ji Yu heard this and found his wordsughable.


    When had she asked Gu Qixiao for help?


    Clearly, it was him overthinking things and approaching her needlessly¡ªso there was really nothing to discuss.


    "No need to concern yourself, President Gu."


    "In fact, instead of worrying about me, perhaps you should pay more attention to your rtionship with your little lover. Because one day..."

 Chapter 43 President Gu should still pay more attention to his own little lover!

    <h4>Chapter 43: Chapter 43 President Gu should still pay more attention to his own little lover!</h4>


    "What did you say?!"


    President Gu was baffled by Ji Yu¡¯s words.


    "Nothing, just a friendly reminder for President Gu. Instead ofing here to show concern for me, perhaps you should pay more attention to your little lover!"


    After saying this, Ji Yu hung up the call. She wasn¡¯t some pushover willing to sit here and endure threats and anger from her ex-husband.


    Thinking about it only made Ji Yu angrier. After changing her clothes, she prepared to head downstairs for dinner.


    Before going downstairs, she didn¡¯t forget to send a message to Feng Qinqin.


    Having the call hung up on him, Gu Qixiao was already enraged due to some data issues. Now, hearing himself used of having a lover, his anger surged.


    Unable to suppress his fury, Gu Qixiao quickly dialed the internal line.


    "Assistant Li, get over here immediately!"


    Assistant Li, who had been dutifully working outside, stiffened upon hearing President Gu¡¯s tone.


    On his way from the assistant¡¯s office to the CEO¡¯s office¡ªa rtively short distance¡ªhe kept racking his brain, trying to figure out if he had made any mistakes.


    Despite his relentless pondering, Assistant Li couldn¡¯t identify any faults. Trembling, he knocked on the door, unsure of the storm he was about to face.


    "Sir..."


    Nervous, Assistant Li cautiously addressed Gu Qixiao, fearing that any slip might provoke him.


    Seeing that it was Assistant Li who entered, Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t even nce at him. Despite summoning him, he remained silent.


    All his thoughts were consumed with grudges against Ji Yu, who had just hung up on him.


    He couldn¡¯t understand. The request he had proposed earlier wasn¡¯t excessive¡ªit was evenpletely advantageous for Doctor Ji.


    Yet she hung up the call just like that?


    And had the audacity to use him of having a lover!


    Not long ago, Gu Qixiao had just divorced his wife. The divorce was mainly due to his three-year-long focus on work, during which he hadn¡¯t even met her once.


    Out of guilt, he even volunteered to allocate arger share of assets to her during the divorce, aspensation and sce.


    Thinking about how his good intentions were repaid with usations of infidelity, Gu Qixiao¡¯s rage burned hotter.


    Meanwhile, when Assistant Li noticed the file thrown on the floor, his heart sank. He had already seen the title printed on the document.


    It was the project Gu Qixiao had recently signed with Cai Xun¡¯s family after coborating with the Feng family.


    Yet the project had encountered repeated troubles, including continual financial chain disruptions, even though it hadn¡¯t beenpleted.


    Quickly scanning the data in the file, Assistant Li felt relieved that he could still stand upright after entering the room¡ªit was a miracle in itself.


    "Sir..." he cautiously called out to Gu Qixiao again.


    Gu Qixiao¡¯s gaze toward him was icy and sharp, though his presence didn¡¯t feel as intimidating as when he was deeply enraged.


    Still, Assistant Li felt as if something was ring at him from behind, causing chills to run down his spine.


    "Get everyone in this project team to the conference room immediately. We¡¯re holding an emergency meeting in ten minutes."


    "Understood."


    Assistant Li was about to notify the whole project team when Gu Qixiao¡¯s chilling voice came from behind.


    "Anyone who doesn¡¯t show up in the conference room within ten minutes can pack up their things and leave this afternoon!"


    Assistant Li froze for a second, but he didn¡¯t respond to Gu Qixiao.


    After all, Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t need him to respond right now.


    As Assistant Li left, Gu Qixiao once again found himself stewing over Ji Yu¡¯s attitude during the phone call.


    "It¡¯s obvious that Doctor Ji is the one at fault. She¡¯s a married woman, yet still indulges in such flirtatious behavior..."


    "I really don¡¯t understand how someone like her managed to climb to the top!"


    Gu Qixiao¡¯s disdain for Ji Yu had never vanished since that night they shared, even though Ji Yu had now told him she was divorced.


    This animosity persisted.


    Even though Ji Yu wasn¡¯t the one who drugged him that night¡ªin fact, she had coincidentally saved his life¡ªit still felt like a deliberate scheme in Gu Qixiao¡¯s mind.


    Especially when he saw the tabloid news about Doctor Ji and Movie Emperor Lu Xingchen again. All the onlinementary practically wished they¡¯d have a baby together. This only amplified Gu Qixiao¡¯s anger.


    He didn¡¯t understand why he felt this way. He simply assumed it was because he¡¯d had physical rtions with her¡ªespecially considering it was his first time.


    Convinced this was the reason, Gu Qixiao dismissed all other possibilities and buried himself in work again.


    With eight minutes left before the meeting, he had to quickly review and sign off on all the reports before him.


    Gu Qixiao deftly flipped through the piles of documents, swiftly scanning them line by line.


    After all, someone had already screened these files beforehand, leaving only the ones requiring urgent review for him.


    Most of the remaining documents were those requiring his signature. Gu Qixiao pushed himself to sign them as quickly as possible.


    By the time Assistant Li knocked on the door again, Gu Qixiao had signed off on most of the files.


    "Sir, all team members have arrived at the conference room."


    After signing the final document, Gu Qixiao rose from his seat and headed toward the conference room.


    As the boss, Gu Qixiao surveyed the project team members gathered in the room. None of them dared utter a single word.


    It was only after Gu Qixiao had taken his seat that everyone cautiously followed suit.


    "Can someone exin to me what¡¯s wrong with the data this time?!"


    Assistant Li had already made copies of the report and distributed them to everyone present in the room.


    Since Gu Qixiao insisted all project team members attend, some junior employees who had never seen him before were secretly thrilled.


    Unlike their group leaders, who were tense with anxiety, the juniors were excited¡ªmeeting President Gu was no trivial matter.


    Du Wei was one of them.


    Looking at Gu Qixiao sitting in the head seat, Du Wei was already daydreaming, her heart fluttering.


    With her extensive experience reading hundreds of "dominant CEO falls in love with me" novels, Du Wei believed wholeheartedly that Gu Qixiao must be the type to spoil someone endlessly once he falls for them.


    Who cared about his family background?


    CEO novels always emphasized that family background wasn¡¯t an issue for the male lead.


    Besides, wasn¡¯t she perfectly positioned to seize this opportunity, being so close to him?


    Lost in her own fantasies, Du Weipletely missed the content of the meeting. All she could think about was how to follow the blueprint in CEO novels and gradually win Gu Qixiao¡¯s heart.


    Meanwhile, over at Lu Xingchen¡¯s studio, everyone was anxiously waiting for him to return to thepany.


    His manager, Lu Ming, stared at the escting tabloid news online, suppressing his anger and avoiding further exposure to the scandal.


    The junior assistants monitored the ongoing developments online, trying their best to help shift public opinion.


    "Let the front desk know to contact me the moment Lu Xingchen arrives!"


    "Why is it taking him so long to get here..."


    Lu Ming was beside himself with worry. Still, there was no sign of Lu Xingchen.


    Just as Lu Ming was about to pick up the phone again to check, Lu Xingchen¡¯s voice finally echoed through.


    "I¡¯m back. What¡¯s the current situation?"

 Chapter 44 She Got Divorced, I Just Found Out

    <h4>Chapter 44: Chapter 44 She Got Divorced, I Just Found Out</h4>


    "What¡¯s going on now?"


    Upon hearing Lu Xingchen¡¯s voice, Lu Ming immediately dragged him into the small meeting room.


    Gathered here were all of Lu Xingchen¡¯s personal assistants, and many were former moderators in Lu Xingchen¡¯s fanmunities.


    As they heard Lu Ming¡¯s voice, they gradually looked up, and many of the girls were already crying with tears.


    Seeing his assistants in tears, Lu Xingchen was somewhat at a loss.


    However, remembering that these people were his fans, he quickly began to exin.


    "The rumors online are false. I¡¯m not in a rtionship."


    "The person in the news is indeed Doctor Ji."


    "Doctor Ji and I have known each other for a long time. I mentioned it during my live stream a few days ago."


    "This incident urred suddenly, and the private booth was fully booked, so that¡¯s why we met in public. I didn¡¯t consider much, sorry to make you worry."


    Lu Xingchen¡¯s brief exnation somewhat eased the sadness in the assistants¡¯ hearts, and their perception of him gradually changed.


    It seemed as though the person standing before them wasn¡¯t Lu Xingchen, not the film emperor Lu.


    This person was unknowingly radiating an aura like a sudden bright light in the dark night.


    However, the unchanging fact was that all the assistants were still crying.


    They were even crying more fiercely than before.


    "Please don¡¯t cry! I really am not in a rtionship! You are my assistants, others can¡¯t know, but I need to let you know!"


    Lu Ming stood aside, watching Lu Xingchen looking utterly helpless, and didn¡¯t care about his predicament at all.


    He even wore an indescribable expression when Lu Xingchen looked at him for help.


    Not until the assistants¡¯ tears were nearly dry and Lu Xingchen personally gave them water did they begin to address the handling of the news.


    "Are you sure the online stuff is really fake?"


    Lu Ming asked Lu Xingchen after having the assistants project the current online scenarios and the most trending news.


    Because Lu Xingchen had never set up a single-personality image before, he wasn¡¯t worried that a rtionship would cause a massive fallout for Lu Xingchen.


    The most important thing now was how to handle the matter.


    If Lu Xingchen was indeed in a rtionship, then he should just make it public.


    But the issue now was that Lu Ming knew Ji Yu and was aware she got married three years ago...


    "..." Lu Xingchen looked at Lu Ming, who asked him this question, his face filled with speechless exasperation.


    Thinking Lu Xingchen was silently agreeing, Lu Ming waspletely panicked.


    "My ancestor, my dear boss!"


    "What are you doing?!"


    "You¡¯re thepany boss. No one is stopping you from dating. If you are, make it public. What¡¯s all this fuss about?!"


    Lu Ming¡¯s continuous remarks made Lu Xingchen feel even more speechless.


    He clearlymunicated with his eyes, "I already exined just now, did your ears not hear any of it?"


    However, clearly, Lu Ming didn¡¯t catch Lu Xingchen¡¯s meaning.


    This time, though, he genuinely felt Lu Xingchen¡¯s wordless frustration.


    "Boss, say something!"


    Qiao Xin, who was still online retorting, couldn¡¯t bear it any longer. She responded to online trolls while exining to Lu Ming.


    "Brother Ming, Brother Chen means he already exined it."


    "..."


    Lu Ming was taken aback by the exnation and looked at Lu Xingchen again.


    "Mm."


    Finally, Lu Xingchen replied, giving an appreciative nce not far away at Qiao Xin.


    "You¡¯re sure, right?"


    Even though everyone around indicated it was true, Lu Ming was still a little uneasy.


    "I¡¯m certain, definitely."


    "Proceed with everything."


    Although it took Lu Xingchen almost half an hour to return, the actual handling required only his stance.


    Since Lu Xingchen stated there¡¯s nothing between him and Ji Yu, the matter had nothing to do with him anymore.


    If everything required his personal involvement, then hiring these well-paid assistants was pointless.


    Lu Xingchen always had a clear stance on utilizing his assistants. He never overexploited them but didn¡¯t refrain from making them work hard out of kindness.


    Such incidents didn¡¯t ur often. Since it happened now, he naturally delegated it to his assistants to handle.


    So in the end, after Lu Ming scolded him for a few sentences, Lu Xingchen returned to his office.


    He was still somewhat worried about Ji Yu¡¯s situation, but since it was gettingte, he refrained from contacting her.


    However, recalling Ji Yu¡¯s attitude when he called her earlier, it seemed like this matter didn¡¯t impact Ji Yu much.


    Meanwhile, after arranging the work for the assistants and seeing them draft and release the announcement, Lu Ming finally felt relieved.


    Leaving everything else to the assistants, Lu Ming went straight to Lu Xingchen¡¯s office.


    He¡¯s not one topletely trust what Lu Xingchen said.


    If Lu Xingchen truly regarded Ji Yu only as a friend, how could he have been so upset three years ago upon knowing she was married?


    Later, his work intensity increased significantly, to the point where if Lu Ming hadn¡¯t caught it, Lu Xingchen could have worked himself to death due to overworking.


    "My ancestor, tell me the truth."


    When Lu Ming inquired about this matter, Lu Xingchen wore a look of wanting no part in the conversation.


    But Lu Ming, determined to understand Lu Xingchen¡¯s rtionship status, had to keep probing.


    "With no one else around, give me the bottom line. What¡¯s the situation between you and Yu?"


    "No situation, same as before."


    Lu Xingchen¡¯s response was nonchnt, and Lu Ming was taken aback.


    Lu Xingchen¡¯s demeanor suggested Lu Ming¡¯s suspicions might be correct.


    "Do you like Yu?"


    "Yes."


    "Oh my god!!!"


    Lu Ming¡¯s heart pounded wildly, not from joy but from fear.


    "If you truly like Yu, the two of you? Don¡¯t you dare have an affair; Yu is already married!"


    Remembering that Ji Yu was married gave Lu Ming a headache.


    Actually, if Ji Yu weren¡¯t married, she and Lu Xingchen would have made a good match.


    Both are workaholics, both are outstanding in their respective fields.


    Moreover, Ji Yu knows boundaries, is kind-hearted, and is a great beauty!


    But unfortunately, the beauty got married early...


    "No, we don¡¯t have that kind of rtionship."


    "Good, that¡¯s good!"


    Just letting out a breath of relief and preparing to calm his heart, as Lu Xingchen was proving a bit too much for him.


    "But that¡¯s no longer important."


    "She got divorced, I just found out."


    "What?!"

 Chapter 45: After modification - 45 Entanglement

    <h4>Chapter 45: After modification: Chapter 45 Entanglement</h4>


    Lu Ming¡¯s face showed a shocked expression.


    He was trying to glean the meaning behind those words.


    In the end, he couldn¡¯t hold back, "You... you¡¯re not seriously still thinking about Yu, are you?"


    How could Ji Yu have gotten married just like that?


    Lu Xingchen rubbed his temples. "None of that matters."


    He wouldn¡¯t bring any trouble to Ji Yu.


    And he certainly wouldn¡¯t let any malicious gossip harm her.


    "How does it not matter, my dear ancestor? The only thing you haven¡¯t outright told me yet is that you want to pursue Yu and marry her!"


    Lu Ming let out a shrill exmation, deeply worried for the hit this revtion might take on his own future.


    "I¡¯m telling you, you¡¯d best not entertain such thoughts. Yu might already have someone she likes!"


    Lu Xingchen said nothing, his expression unreadable.


    He got up and stepped out to call Ji Yu.


    When Ji Yu heard about Lu Xingchen¡¯s situation, she didn¡¯t dwell on it. "Xingchen, I¡¯m already aware of what¡¯s been happening. The stuff online¡ªhalf of it¡¯s real, half of it¡¯s fake. Don¡¯t overthink it."


    But that wasn¡¯t the answer Lu Xingchen wanted.


    He calmed himself before speaking. "If anything happens, Yu, you can alwayse to me."


    He would never stand by and watch Ji Yu get hurt.


    Ji Yu chuckled softly. "Come on, our superstar, stop obsessing over this. They¡¯ll forget about it eventually."


    What truly irked her was everything rted to Gu Qixiao.


    What had gotten into himtely?


    Whenever she thought about him and Song Xuan, Ji Yu couldn¡¯t help but grind her teeth in frustration.


    "Yu, can we meet up?"


    Ji Yu, lost in her thoughts, hesitated for a moment when she heard his question. "Meet now? If we do, the media will start making up stories again. Xingchen, you don¡¯t need to overthink this either."


    But Lu Xingchen wanted to see her.


    After waiting a long time for an answer that never came, an inexplicable sense of frustration welled up inside him, with no outlet to release it.


    "If there¡¯s nothing else, I¡¯ll hang up now. Xingchen, don¡¯t let this get to you."


    As he listened to the call disconnect, a sense of loss settled in Lu Xingchen¡¯s heart, leaving him helpless.


    Some feelings of love cannot be easily expressed...


    Meanwhile, Gu Qixiao was stressed about the funding issues.


    After discovering the financial problems, no one had stepped up to address them.


    "Are you all just here to eat and do nothing?" Gu Qixiao¡¯s eyes were cold as he looked at the group before him.


    The team leaders didn¡¯t dare speak, fearing they would draw his ire.


    Who could¡¯ve guessed such a massive oversight would ur in this project?


    "Not one of you noticed such a huge mistake?" Gu Qixiao let out augh of disbelief, his gaze sweeping over each of them.


    He wanted to see who was intentionally hiding the truth.


    When Du Wei saw Gu Qixiao¡¯s eyesnd on her, she instinctively shed a sweet smile.


    "You,e here."


    Her overly conspicuous smile made her an immediate target.


    Just as Du Wei thought fortune had smiled upon her, giving her a chance to get close to Gu Qixiao,


    he coldly spat out a few words. "Did you know?"


    "What?" Du Wei froze for a moment, not understanding what he was asking.


    But Gu Qixiao had no patience to spare. "Who brought her here? Report to HR tomorrow."


    "Yes, yes, President Gu, please don¡¯t be angry. She¡¯s a neer and doesn¡¯t know the rules¡ªI¡¯ll get her out right away."


    Du Wei¡¯s face turned ashen. "President Gu, I really didn¡¯t know."


    But in this situation, Gu Qixiao had no tolerance for such employees.


    "Find out exactly what caused the financial gap. You have three days. Starting today, suspend all coboration until the Ca family provides an exnation. If they don¡¯t, the partnership won¡¯t move forward."


    He was fully aware that losses from this project were inevitable.


    But he wouldn¡¯t let the Ca family continue running rampant.


    Hearing this, Assistant Li finally exhaled a sigh of relief. "Understood."


    But Gu Qixiao¡¯s anger wasn¡¯t so easily pacified.


    The project issues coupled with Ji Yu¡¯s matters left his head throbbing.


    Yet Ji Yu acted as if nothing had happened.


    "Assistant Li, arrange dinner with Ji Yu for tomorrow."


    Assistant Li understood this matter with Doctor Ji all too well.


    He didn¡¯t know what to say. From his perspective, clearly, the trouble stemmed from Miss Song.


    But he didn¡¯t dare mention it in front of Gu Qixiao and reluctantlyplied to make the arrangements.


    "Sorry, I don¡¯t have time tomorrow. Tell your President Gu I¡¯m too busytely. If Song Xuan chose another hospital, then stoping back to ours."


    Ji Yu yawned, unwilling topromise on this matter.


    "Stop calling me about something that¡¯s a dead-end. Assistant Li, I¡¯d appreciate you showing some understanding too."


    With that, Ji Yu hung up the call, having no intention of revisiting anything rted to Song Xuan.


    But Song Xuan wasn¡¯t willing to give up. Because of the obvious w on her face, she hid behind a mask everywhere she went.


    She didn¡¯t care how busy Gu Qixiao was. She insisted on finding him to arrange her surgery.


    "Xiao, peopleugh at me the moment they see my face. I don¡¯t want to live like this anymore. Please help me¡ªwhether it¡¯s finding Ji Yu or someone else, just help me..."


    Gu Qixiao frowned slightly, the documents for his project with Cai Xun still in hand. "I¡¯m busy."


    The issues with this project had be a significant lesson for him.


    He hadn¡¯t anticipated such an oue.


    But Song Xuan showed no inclination to restrain herself.


    "Xiao, are you really okay with me going around with this face forever?" She sobbed pitifully but dared not face him directly, knowing she herself found her own appearance unbearable.


    "I¡¯ve already asked Assistant Li to arrange a meeting with Doctor Ji. Be patient and wait."


    Song Xuan¡¯s mind shed to Ji Yu¡¯s beautiful, radiant face, and an uncontroble jealousy burned within her.


    "But Doctor Ji already turned me down before. Why would she agree this time? Xiao, can¡¯t we look for another doctor? Maybe we¡¯ll get lucky and find someone who can work a miracle?"


    She didn¡¯t want Gu Qixiao and Ji Yu to have any more interactions than necessary.


    Her womanly intuition told her that Ji Yu¡¯s frequent presence was far from harmless.


    "Xiao, have you forgotten what my brother said before? Are you not even willing to meet such a small request?"


    The issue Song Xuan brought up was what Gu Qixiao worried about most. Hearing her mention it again, he couldn¡¯t hide the impatience in his gaze. "I¡¯ll take care of you ording to your brother¡¯s wishes, but I have my own matters to handle too."


    This coboration with Cai Xun had been partially driven by Song Xuan herself.


    Now that problems had surfaced, he had no choice but to shoulder all the risks.


    "Xiao, isn¡¯t my face important to you? Just the thought of standing next to you with this hideous face and being ridiculed¡ªit¡¯s unbearable for me to continue living like this."


    Her feelings for Gu Qixiao had never been a secret.


    Gu Qixiao¡¯s brows knitted even tighter.


    "Tomorrow I¡¯ll take you to Rejuvenate Hospital again. Just mind your words there."

 Chapter 46 Stimulus

    <h4>Chapter 46: Chapter 46 Stimulus</h4>


    The next day, Gu Qixiao immediately set off with Song Xuan to Chongxin.


    When Ji Yu saw the two of them, her expression was rather speechless. "Did I not make myself clear enough? I won¡¯t perform any more surgeries for Miss Song. I¡¯ve already said this before: I¡¯m not weing to those who don¡¯t follow the doctor¡¯s advice."


    The result would still be the same if they came again.


    Hearing this, Song Xuan¡¯s expression became difficult to control. "Doctor Ji, I was impulsivest time. But now, look at my face¡ªit¡¯s gotten like this. As a doctor, surely you wouldn¡¯t bear to see me continue like this?"


    Ji Yu raised an eyebrow, her stunning face full of indifference. "Sorry, I¡¯m a doctor with principles."


    Her attitude had remained the same from beginning to end.


    Song Xuan¡¯s eyes immediately filled with tears. "Since Doctor Ji is unwilling, then let¡¯s leave. We shouldn¡¯t make things difficult for Doctor Ji."


    The way she said it made it seem as if they were the ones being wronged.


    Gu Qixiao, too, was getting a headache from all the crying. "Doctor Ji, as long as you¡¯re willing to perform the surgery for Xuanxuan, I can owe you a personal favor."


    He really didn¡¯t want to listen to Song Xuan¡¯sints any longer.


    Perhaps he shouldn¡¯t think like this, but he always ended up seeing Song Xuan as a burden.


    Ji Yu let out a sneer. "President Gu, who do you think you are? What use do I have for your so-called favor?"


    Her brows were tinged with sarcasm, as if they were joking about something utterly ridiculous.


    Gu Qixiao wasn¡¯t someone who was often subjected to such mockery, and his expression darkened slightly. "So, ording to Doctor Ji, you¡¯ll never agree to this?"


    "That¡¯s correct." Ji Yu gave her answer immediately.


    She didn¡¯t want the two of them to keeping and causing trouble.


    "Doesn¡¯t the stuff online matter at all?" Gu Qixiao still remembered those awful things said by the fans.


    "Would they dare to insult me to my face? President Gu, people need to learn to take things lightly, don¡¯t you think?"


    Suchments wouldn¡¯t faze Ji Yu in the slightest.


    Anyway, the rtionship between them had always been purely friendship and sibling-like from the start.


    "You..." Gu Qixiao had never encountered a woman like this before¡ªunppable, impervious to coercion or persuasion, as though nothing in the world could affect her.


    "What? President Gu, are you trying to curse at me? Or was my earlier exnation not clear enough?"


    Saying this, Ji Yu pulled out the previous contract.


    She pointed to the uses and read them aloud, word by word: "Would you two be so kind as to open your eyes and take a good look? Isn¡¯t it explicitly written here that if Miss Song goes to another cosmetic surgery clinic for a second surgery, Chongxin will bear no responsibility and will not perform any follow-up surgeries?"


    Even if her face were to truly deteriorateter on, that would still be her own problem.


    Ji Yu¡¯s voice was cold and indifferent as her gazended on Song Xuan¡¯s face with clear disdain. "What else do you want to say?"


    With the contract termsid out in front of them, the two were left speechless.


    "Since you understand now, then kindly leave. Chongxin is not particrly weing to clients who love to cause trouble."


    Ji Yu had said these same words to them before.


    And now, they were even more fitting than ever.


    Hearing Ji Yu¡¯s refusal topromise, Song Xuan felt utterly humiliated.


    More than her face, what Song Xuan envied was Ji Yu¡¯s face.


    "If Doctor Ji is unwilling, then let¡¯s head back. Xiao, you¡¯ll help me find another doctor, right?"


    "I¡¯ll arrange one for you as soon as I can." Gu Qixiao was already starting to feel a headacheing on.


    As Ji Yu listened to the exchange between the two, she couldn¡¯t help but think how well-suited they were. Look at them¡ªeven now, Gu Qixiao wasn¡¯t the least bit repulsed. It must be true love.


    "Alright then. If the two of you wish to perform a love spectacle, please take a left at the exit. I won¡¯t see you off."


    She had other things to do and no time to deal with their nonsense.


    Gu Qixiao felt that Ji Yu had likely misunderstood something. He wanted to exin but, upon seeing her expression, suddenly didn¡¯t know where to start.


    In the end, he could only leave with Song Xuan.


    On the way back, Gu Qixiao appeared absent-minded.


    Song Xuan couldn¡¯t help but feel a pang of jealousy. "Xiao, are you still thinking about Doctor Ji? Doctor Ji is indeed very beautiful, not like my face...so disfigured."


    As she spoke, tears began to fall.


    She looked as pitiful as if someone had wronged her.


    Gu Qixiao snapped out of his thoughts, clearly frustrated.


    "Why would you think that? This has nothing to do with Ji Yu. I was thinking about the recent partnership with Cai Xun."


    After all, what Cai Xun had done was enough for Gu Qixiao to pull out his investment immediately.


    "What could possibly be wrong with your partnership? Don¡¯t you care about my face at all?"


    Her face had turned into this; how could she possibly stand beside Gu Qixiao in the future?


    Gu Qixiao sighed deeply, still holding on to a shred of their past friendship. "Your face will get better."


    "Then, Xiao, will you despise my face for being ugly?" Song Xuan looked at Gu Qixiao with teary, pleading eyes.


    She seemed desperate for him to give her an explicit answer.


    "How could I despise you?" Gu Qixiao said this sincerely.


    But in Song Xuan¡¯s eyes, it came off as mere perfunctory reassurance.


    "Really? If you don¡¯t despise me, why won¡¯t you marry me, Xiao?" Her gaze carried a hint of self-mockery.


    She was also afraid Gu Qixiao would genuinely be disgusted by her face.


    She¡¯d always known where her advantagesy.


    Gu Qixiao simply felt exhausted; this wasn¡¯t the first time this situation had arisen.


    "I don¡¯t despise your face, but as I¡¯ve said before, we¡¯ve always been like siblings. I¡¯ll try my best to find a hospital to treat your face."


    Song Xuan smiled bitterly. "So, at the end of the day, you¡¯re still disgusted by my face. If it were Doctor Ji standing here, would you agree then?"


    What did this have to do with Ji Yu?


    Gu Qixiao couldn¡¯t understand her train of thought and only found the entire situation absurd.


    "She refuses to treat you, and I¡¯ll arrange for another hospital until your face is fixed. There¡¯s no need for you to overthink things."


    Only then did Song Xuan calm down.


    But once something was set in her mind, she wasn¡¯t going to change it.


    "Xiao, why won¡¯t you marry me?" She stared at Gu Qixiao¡¯s back in a daze.


    The man she¡¯d loved for so long refused to marry her.


    It had to be because of her face.


    Gu Qixiao felt a tingling unease as she stared, but fortunately, he quickly disappeared from her sight.


    "Assistant Li, contact the best cosmetic surgery hospital. No matter the cost, make sure her face gets treated."


    He didn¡¯t want to continue living like this anymore.


    The mere thought of being trapped in this kind of life made his scalp tingle with dread.


    Perceiving the tension in the air, Assistant Li understood Gu Qixiao¡¯s intentions and hurriedly set about finding a hospital in silence.


    Meanwhile, Gu Qixiao couldn¡¯t stop pondering Ji Yu¡¯s icy demeanor. Why was she so indifferent and convinced there was some mistress in his life?


    Even he didn¡¯t know where this supposed lover wasing from.


    "Ji Yu, what are you really after...?"


    He couldn¡¯t let her go unchecked. Sooner orter, he¡¯d uncover the truth about her.

 Chapter 47 Pregnancy

    <h4>Chapter 47: Chapter 47 Pregnancy</h4>


    Ji Yu wasn¡¯t aware that she had already caught Gu Qixiao¡¯s attention.


    Since the morning, she had been feeling some difort in her stomach.


    By noon, this sensation became particrly pronounced.


    "Sister Yu, what¡¯s wrong? Why does yourplexion look so terrible?"


    Ji Yu waved her hand dismissively, "It¡¯s nothing serious. I might have eaten something bad at lunch. You go focus on your work. I¡¯ll make a trip to the hospital myselfter."


    She couldn¡¯t figure out what was happening either.


    So she decided to call a cab and go directly to the nearest hospital.


    Besides, she hadn¡¯t had her period this month.


    Thinking about this, her heart sank slightly. Worried that she might really have gotten "hit," she thought it best to hurry and get checked out.


    "Congrattions, Miss Ji, you¡¯re two months pregnant."


    When she heard these words, Ji Yu¡¯s expression froze.


    She hadn¡¯t expected her suspicion to be true at all.


    "Doctor, could the test results be wrong? I just had my periodst month..."


    "That¡¯s actually what I was about to exin to you. Miss Ji, your condition is somewhat unstable. The bleedingst month that you thought was a period was actually a mild miscarriage warning." The doctor rified her doubts.


    They also hoped Ji Yu would be more careful moving forward.


    Ji Yu¡¯s face showed disbelief.


    Eventually, it settled intoposure.


    "Miss Ji, do you have any other questions?"


    "Will this child survive?" Ji Yu didn¡¯t know how to face this unexpected child.


    "The situation has stabilized. You¡¯ll just need to avoid any intense activity and alcohol from now on."


    Holding the test results absentmindedly, Ji Yu sat on a bench outside the exam room, still unable to process what had happened.


    This child hade into her life far too abruptly.


    She had always been alone and craved family, but this child had arrived so unexpectedly¡ªbeyond any n she had ever envisioned.


    She didn¡¯t even know what to do next.


    "Yu?"


    At first, Ji Yu thought she was imagining things, but she quickly noticed someone walking toward her.


    "Yu, why do you look so pale? Are you not feeling well?" Lu Xingchen, wearing a face mask, appeared to havee for a follow-up checkup.


    He kept a low profile, but a few people couldn¡¯t help ncing in his direction.


    Ji Yu, worried that this might cause trouble for him, spoke briefly, "I¡¯m fine. Xingchen, you go ahead for your checkup. I¡¯ve already had mine, and it¡¯s nothing serious."


    She instinctively concealed the news of the child.


    By the time she realized this, she didn¡¯t want to linger here any longer.


    "Xingchen, I¡¯m going back home to rest for a bit. I¡¯m feeling a little tired."


    It wasn¡¯t just physical exhaustion¡ªit was emotional too.


    She didn¡¯t know how to face the child moving forward.


    Lu Xingchen understood that Ji Yu didn¡¯t want to exin why she was at the hospital.


    But he didn¡¯t press further and simply ruffled Ji Yu¡¯s hair, his face carrying a tender smile, "If you¡¯re tired, then take a good rest. I¡¯ll always be here for you."


    He knew life wasn¡¯t easy for a young woman like Ji Yu.


    For a brief moment, Ji Yu wanted to share her story with him, but she stopped herself at thest second.


    "Thank you, Xingchen. I¡¯m already feeling much better."


    She needed to think through what to do with this child.


    At this very moment, Gu Qixiao happened to walk over as well. When he saw Ji Yu and Lu Xingchen standing together, his expression slipped out of control.


    "Doctor Ji certainly seems to have time, managing toe to the hospital with Mr. Lu."


    Evidently, he had misunderstood something.


    But Ji Yu didn¡¯t have the mood to rify.


    Seeing Gu Qixiao made her emotions even moreplicated.


    "It¡¯s none of your business."


    She didn¡¯t want anything further to develop between herself and Gu Qixiao.


    But it seemed the situation wasn¡¯t moving in the direction she had hoped.


    Lu Xingchen, seeing this unfold, worried that Ji Yu might be bullied. He immediately stepped forward and shielded her behind him.


    "Yu and I¡ªour matters don¡¯t need President Gu¡¯s concern."


    The intimacy between the two of them made Gu Qixiao feel like an outsider.


    Realizing this, Gu Qixiao felt particrly irritable.


    He eyed Ji Yu with a half-smile, growing more certain that her past actions were driven by ulterior motives.


    "Doctor Ji, you¡¯re quite something¡ªshifting targets so quickly."


    His mocking tone meant nothing to Ji Yu.


    "Are you done talking?" Despite her paleplexion, Ji Yu refused to back down at this moment.


    "If you¡¯re done, then get out of the way. President Gu, you can¡¯t see I¡¯m in a hurry to leave?"


    She needed some quiet time alone; she didn¡¯t need to exin anything to Gu Qixiao.


    But Gu Qixiao misunderstood her intentions, thinking she resented his presence impeding her rtionship with Lu Xingchen.


    His expression darkened like the bottom of a burnt pot, "It seems Doctor Ji can¡¯t wait anymore."


    Ji Yu naturally understood his insinuation, finding it especially scornful.


    "Think whatever you want."


    She dismissed him entirely.


    Ji Yu kept a cold face, refusing to look at him.


    Lu Xingchen, worried about Ji Yu¡¯s condition and uneasy about her returning alone, decided to escort her out of the hospital.


    This time, Ji Yu didn¡¯t resist.


    She let herself be led away in a daze.


    Shepletely failed to notice that the diagnostic report she had stuffed into her purse earlier had fallen out.


    Gu Qixiao initially didn¡¯t intend to care about it, but thinking Ji Yu would return to search for the report, he instinctively picked it up.


    When he looked at its contents, his expression became indescribably dark.


    "President Gu, Chairman Gu¡¯s checkup is almostplete. What¡¯s next?"


    Assistant Li nced up and was immediately startled.


    He didn¡¯t know what had happened; everything had been fine earlier, but now Gu Qixiao¡¯s expression was so grim?


    "President Gu?" He cautiously addressed him, afraid to get caught up in the fallout.


    "Investigate this Lu Xingchen for me." He spat out Lu Xingchen¡¯s name word by word.


    He wanted to see what Ji Yu found so special about Lu Xingchen.


    Even to the point of having a child with him.


    He clenched the diagnostic report in his hand, itching to pull Ji Yu aside and demand an exnation.


    But Ji Yu had no spare energy for his affairs.


    Just knowing about the child had thrown her into turmoil.


    "Yu, is something on your mind? You can tell me anything. I¡¯ve always said¡ªI¡¯ll be here to support you."


    He never spoke empty words.


    Yet Ji Yu didn¡¯t know where to begin.


    "It¡¯s not necessary, Xingchen. Just clearing up the past for me was already enough. You don¡¯t need to help with this."

 Chapter 48: Sense of Boundary

    <h4>Chapter 48: Chapter 48: Sense of Boundary</h4>


    She always maintained the safest distance between herself and Lu Xingchen.


    Afraid that she might end up entangled in emotions she shouldn¡¯t provoke.


    However, Lu Xingchen wasn¡¯t ready to give up just yet.


    "Did something bad happen at the hospital today?"


    He even started wondering if it might be a health problem.


    But Ji Yu shook her head and smiled at Lu Xingchen, "Xingchen, don¡¯t make wild guesses. I¡¯m really fine. I¡¯m just a bit tired¡ªI¡¯ll rest well at home and I¡¯ll be fine."


    She had been dealing with numerous surgeries recently, coupled with theplications involving Gu Qixiao and Song Xuan, leaving her feeling drained.


    Hearing Ji Yu¡¯s words, Lu Xingchen refrained from pressing further.


    He sighed softly as a doctor and chose not to inquire anymore, only hoping that Ji Yu wouldn¡¯t encounter new troubles.


    "Yu, make sure you rest properly. I wanted to treat you to a meal, but seeing you look so ufortable, I think you should just take it easy."


    He didn¡¯t make things difficult for Ji Yu.


    He always ced himself where Ji Yu would feel mostfortable.


    Ji Yu couldn¡¯t help but sigh. He truly was like his demeanor ¡ª always as warm and pleasant as spring rain.


    "Xingchen, thank you so much."


    But she still had her own matters to deal with.


    After returning home, she kept tossing and turning, unsure how to resolve the problem.


    Perhaps the only person she could talk to about it was Feng Qinqin.


    When Feng Qinqin answered the call, she sounded a bit surprised, "Wow, isn¡¯t this our busy-bee Doctor Ji? What brings you to call me today?"


    Her tone carried a hint of teasing.


    It helped Ji Yu rx a little. "Qinqin, I met a patient today who got pregnant after a one-night stand. Should I advise her to keep it or terminate it?"


    Feng Qinqin didn¡¯t associate the issue with Ji Yu.


    "I¡¯ve seen this kind of thing too many times. Yuyu, I¡¯d advise you not to interfere. After all, no one can truly predict how things will turn out in situations like this."


    After all, they couldn¡¯t possibly be concerned about the one-night stand partner.


    "Me? I¡¯d say that this patient was being foolish. Since the one-night stand partner certainly wouldn¡¯t take responsibility, and she can¡¯t support a child on her own, why not just terminate it?"


    Ultimately, ites down to personal choice.


    Ji Yu gently ced her hand on her still t abdomen, her mind a whirlwind of thoughts.


    She was lost about what steps to take to change everything.


    "You¡¯re quite right. I won¡¯t get involved in this matter."


    Feng Qinqin still couldn¡¯t understand why Ji Yu was suddenly interested in this sort of topic.


    "Yuyu, don¡¯t tell me you¡¯re hesitating about men again, worried about what trouble might follow. Bute on¡ªyou already have Lu the superstar as such a premium resource. Don¡¯t waste time thinking about anyone else!"


    Sheughed with a teasing edge.


    "I think Lu the superstar obviously cares about you. He must like you! Trust me¡ªif you just express your feelings, it¡¯d definitely work out."


    She was already fantasizing about what it would be like to chase stars up close.


    "You know what this would be? My bestie ends up with my idol¡ªthen I can get close to my favorite celebrity!"


    Just imagining it filled her with excitement.


    "Please don¡¯t ruin things for Lu the superstar. I¡¯ve told you before¡ªwe¡¯re just friends."


    Feng Qinqin snorted, "Well, if you don¡¯t believe me, test it yourself. You¡¯d be surprised."


    Ji Yu had no energy left to drag the conversation further. She responded with a faint "Mm," and then hung up.


    Leaving Feng Qinqin curious about what could possibly upset Ji Yu to such an extent.


    But this time, it wasn¡¯t just Ji Yu who was conflicted.


    Even Gu Qixiao was tossing and turning because of the same issue.


    "What¡¯s wrong? Still worried about Cai Xun¡¯s matter? You already know Cai Xun is unreliable. This coboration serves as a lesson. Next time, you¡¯ll need to think twice before getting involved in something like this."


    Mr. Gu had long foreseen the situation and didn¡¯t intend to reprimand Gu Qixiao.


    He was aware that theing days might be troublesome, although the Gu family could afford to take the hit.


    "Dad, I know I¡¯ve made mistakes. Next time I¡¯ll think carefully before deciding."


    He was already paying the price for his error.


    He knew he had to fix the issue with the funds quickly.


    "If you understand that, then why are you still tossing and turning like this? Someone might think something¡¯s seriously wrong with you."


    How could he not be agitated?


    Who would have imagined that Ji Yu would quickly cozy up to Lu Xingchen, even having a child, as though he didn¡¯t exist?


    When he thought of that test result, he felt an overwhelming frustration.


    "It¡¯s rare to see you with this kind of expression. Why not say what¡¯s on your mind¡ªperhaps we can tackle it together?"


    Gu Qixiao remained silent, clearly not wanting more people to know.


    "President Gu, Miss Song is here."


    Hearing those words only made Gu Qixiao more irritated. How could he not know why Song Xuan hade?


    "Send her back," he ordered.


    He didn¡¯t want to see Song Xuan creating a scene at the hospital.


    But Song Xuan¡¯s temper ensured nobody could stop her once she was there.


    Ignoring Assistant Li, she strode in with gifts.


    "Xiao, why didn¡¯t you tell me Uncle Gu was ill? I could¡¯ve prepared some gifts for him in advance."


    Song Xuan wore a mask this time, presenting herself as dignified.


    But Gu Qixiao knew full well who she was underneath the fa?ade.


    "Xuanxuan, you should head home. This isn¡¯t the right ce for you."


    He knew exactly why Song Xuan was here.


    Song Xuan couldn¡¯t help but feel aggrieved. "Xiao, don¡¯t you want me here? I thought you¡¯d be happy to see me. Uncle Gu will find out about us sooner orter anyway."


    She looked at Gu Qixiao with a pitiful expression, as if there actually was something between them.


    Gu Qixiao frowned slightly. "Xuanxuan, don¡¯t talk nonsense."


    Mr. Gu was intrigued by the exchange and seemed interested in learning what was going on between them.


    He studied Song Xuan with a probing nce.


    Unfortunately, Song Xuan failed to notice the nuance.


    "Xiao, are you really rejecting me because of my appearance? My face will heal eventually. My brother even said..."


    No matter the asion, whenever Song Xuan mentioned her brother, Gu Qixiao found himself at a loss.


    This time was no exception.


    "Just head home first. Once I¡¯ve sorted things here, we can discuss your face, alright?" He was close to snapping under the pressure.


    If only he had known this would happen, he would¡¯ve prevented Song Xuan from undergoing the second surgery at all costs.


    "Xiao, can¡¯t I stay a while longer?" She wanted a chance to win over his affections.

 Chapter 49: The Child’s Stay or Departure

    <h4>Chapter 49: Chapter 49: The Child¡¯s Stay or Departure</h4>


    Gu Qixiao really didn¡¯t have the energy to exin all of this.


    "Xuanxuan, go home first. This is a hospital."


    He didn¡¯t want Song Xuan causing a scene here.


    Song Xuan¡¯s eyes were brimming with tears, making her look incredibly pitiful.


    Unfortunately, Gu Qixiao¡¯s expression was cold and indifferent, unmoved by the situation before him.


    Left with no choice, Song Xuan could only follow Assistant Li out.


    "Assistant Li, does Xiao think my face brings him shame?"


    Assistant Li felt his scalp tingle under her gaze. "How could that be? Miss Song, you¡¯re overthinking. Chairman Gu isn¡¯t in good health, and President Gu¡¯s mood isn¡¯t good about that matter. It doesn¡¯t have anything to do with you."


    "Really?" Then why wasn¡¯t she allowed to stay just now?


    Song Xuan touched her cheek, appearing lost in thought.


    If her face was the reason, then maybe if she turned herself into Ji Yu, she could win Gu Qixiao¡¯s heart?


    At home, Ji Yu was resting when she suddenly sneezed, feeling even more conflicted about the decision concerning the child.


    Coincidentally, the Ji parents called Ji Yu toe home for dinner. Ji Yu hesitated. "Mom, Dad, I won¡¯t being home tonight. There¡¯s still some unresolved matters here at Xin Xin."


    Ji Yuanzhou sighed inwardly, thinking his little sister didn¡¯t even bother preparing a proper excuse.


    The three of them had been waiting downstairs at Xin Xin¡¯s building¡ªthey knew perfectly well that Ji Yu wasn¡¯t there.


    Even so, they didn¡¯t n to expose her lie.


    After hanging up the phone, they instructed Ji Yuanzhou to visit Ji Yu more often.


    "Your sister¡¯s been in bad spiritstely. As her brother, you should at least check on her asionally."


    Ji Yuanzhou felt resigned. "Mom, Dad, you both know this girl is always set on her ways. What can I actually do to help?"


    Ji Yu had always taken care of herself and grown increasingly hard for him to understand.


    "Stop arguing. It¡¯s probably you who bullied her so much she doesn¡¯t want toe home anymore!"


    This somehow became his fault?


    Ji Yuanzhou sighed but had no choice other than to grab the dinner their parents packed and take it to Ji Yu.


    At least this way, he wouldn¡¯t have to hear them nagging anymore.


    When Ji Yu saw him, she seemed surprised, though she quickly regained herposure.


    "Are you sick? Your face looks terrible." He handed her the lunchbox, then noticed her paleplexion and grew a little concerned.


    Unprepared earlier, naturally she looked unwell.


    "It¡¯s nothing. I¡¯ve just been really tired. How did you even know I was home?" She hadn¡¯t just imed to be at Xin Xin?


    "Mom and Dad were waiting for you at Xin Xin earlier. Since you weren¡¯t there, you were obviously at this apartment. Now tell me¡ªwhat¡¯s bothering you?"


    He naturally sat beside Ji Yu, looking every bit the caring elder brother ready to hear out his younger sister¡¯s troubles.


    But Ji Yu knew some things couldn¡¯t be said aloud.


    At least not until she made her decision; the matter of the child had to remain concealed.


    "Brother, I¡¯m really fine. If I look pale, it¡¯s just because I¡¯ve been busier than usualtely. You know how I¡¯ve been trending online for days now."


    Ji Yuanzhou frowned slightly, recalling the matter between her and Lu Xingchen. "You¡¯re upset because of Lu Xingchen, aren¡¯t you?"


    The possibility left a bitter taste in his heart.


    Yet, if Ji Yu¡¯s unhappiness were indeed rted to Lu Xingchen, it would be the lesser worry. The weight of the child in her womb was the real burden she couldn¡¯t figure out how to handle.


    "It has nothing to do with Lu Xingchen. We¡¯re just friends."


    She felt helpless, knowing the issue with the child would trouble her for quite some time.


    "Then what¡¯s so important you can¡¯t tell the family?"


    Ji Yuanzhou sounded a bit stubborn.


    He seemed to still see Ji Yu as the young girl who couldn¡¯t manage anything on her own.


    Ji Yu sighed lightly. "Brother, just give me some time, okay? When the timees, I promise to tell you everything."


    She couldn¡¯t hide the child¡¯s existence from the family forever.


    But it had to wait until she was certain this child could stay.


    Her gaze was earnest, coupled with her pale, delicate features. Ji Yuanzhou eventually relented.


    "You little rascal. You always get tangled up in mysterious things. No matter what, the family is here for you. Nobody¡¯s going to bully you while we¡¯re around."


    He instinctively wanted to ruffle Ji Yu¡¯s hair, but she dodged him reflexively.


    For a moment, the two of them felt awkward.


    Some things, ultimately, couldn¡¯t go back to how they once were.


    Ji Yu smiled faintly at him. "Brother, everything¡¯s in the past now. Let¡¯s go home together."


    She had calmed down. Since the child¡¯s sudden arrival, she¡¯d decided to let things take their course and not fight against fate.


    "I¡¯m sure Mom and Dad miss me too." She spoke casually, but Ji Yuanzhou couldn¡¯t shake the feeling she was hiding something from them.


    Meanwhile, at the hospital, Gu Qixiao tried multiple times to reach Ji Yu on the phone, but each attempt only led to her line being turned off.


    Assistant Li was able to connect, though his calls were always hung up.


    Assistant Li gave Gu Qixiao an ufortable look, suspecting there was a high chance Gu Qixiao had been blocked.


    "President Gu, do you need something from Miss Ji? How about leaving her a message? Maybe she¡¯ll reach out once she sees it?"


    He carefully suggested apromise.


    Yet Gu Qixiao¡¯s expression stayed grim.


    "I¡¯d like to see when she¡¯ll contact me on her own initiative."


    Despite everything on his te recently, Ji Yu¡¯s pregnancy kept lingering in his mind, no matter how he tried to dismiss it.


    "Has the stic surgeon I asked you to reach out to responded yet?"


    The thought of Song Xuan¡¯s face annoyed him further. It seemed like he was experiencing a streak of bad lucktely, constantly encountering bizarre situations.


    "I¡¯ve made contact with an expert in the field. Apparently, they¡¯ve trained several highly skilled surgeons."


    "Schedule a meeting as soon as possible." He needed to resolve the matter with Song Xuan quickly.


    "Understood."


    Gu Qixiao made an effort to calm his emotions, then turned back into the hospital room.


    Mr. Gu looked at his son with a faint smirk. "What¡¯s this? Got yourself tangled up in a love debt recently?"


    From the moment he¡¯d seen Song Xuan, he knew there was nothing simple about their rtionship.


    The current situation only confirmed that suspicion.


    "Dad, things between me and Song Xuan aren¡¯t like what you think."


    The weight of Song Xuan¡¯s feelings felt suffocating to him.


    Ever since that incident, he couldn¡¯t help but remember. Now he wished Song Xuan could find her own happiness.


    Why cling to him for redemption?


    "You really don¡¯t get it, do you? The girl¡¯s feelings are inly obvious¡ªhow can you not sense it?"


    He knew his son¡¯s personality well. If Gu Qixiao felt this way, it likely meant he didn¡¯t reciprocate those feelings.


    "Dad, whatever happens, I owe their family a life."


    The events of that day would stay with him forever.

 Chapter 50 Deficit

    <h4>Chapter 50: Chapter 50 Deficit</h4>


    "This sense of debt can¡¯tst a lifetime. You¡¯ve done so much for this young girl already¡ªhaven¡¯t you repaid enough?"


    Mr. Gu didn¡¯t entirely agree with his approach.


    But now that it hade to this, the choice was still his to make.


    "You, sometimes, are far too stubborn¡ªmore stubborn than me, an old man. One day, you¡¯ll regret it."


    Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t quite understand what his father meant.


    He only knew that he was a man of principles.


    "Dad, I¡¯m nning to cut off the coboration with Cai Xunpletely. Since their financial chain can¡¯t be filled, waiting for them will only be a waste of time."


    Moreover, the issue of Cai Xun cutting corners has yet to be addressed.


    Ending the partnership with them is the best decision.


    Mr. Gu had already made his stance very clear. "I already said before, carefully vet your new partners. You¡¯d better talk things through with the Feng family; otherwise, there will definitely be conflictter."


    The Feng family wouldn¡¯t agree to cooperate so easily.


    What was agreed upon before has now run into issues, putting the Gu family clearly at fault no matter how you look at it.


    "You can¡¯t assume that just because the Feng family previously needed this partnership, they¡¯ll certainly agree to cooperate with you now. It¡¯s best to set aside such naive thinking."


    Smiling, he looked at Gu Qixiao, seemingly wanting to use this situation as a lesson for him.


    "But before, the Feng family¡¯s attitude clearly leaned toward coboration. There shouldn¡¯t be any major problems."


    "Oh? Looks like you, boy, still need some proper training." Mr. Gu still didn¡¯t seem prepared to intervene.


    "I¡¯ll be recovering quietly at the hospital next. How you proceed is up to you." Trusting thepany to Gu Qixiao, he hoped this process would help him grow and mature.


    Gu Qixiao nodded. "I understand, Dad."


    He wouldn¡¯t let himself make such rookie mistakes again.


    But first, he needed to apany Song Xuan to meet the reconstructive surgeon; there was simply no way he could rush over to the Feng family right away.


    Early the next morning, Assistant Li had already arranged everything. "President Gu, this expert is very approachable. However, she mentioned that typical cases can be addressed, but there¡¯s no absolute guarantee for anything too severe."


    This all depended mainly on the expert¡¯s skills.


    Thinking about Song Xuan¡¯s recent behavior, Gu Qixiao decided to give it a try. Desperate times called for desperate measures.


    "Let¡¯s go check it out."


    He knew Song Xuan had been increasingly unreasonabletely and was growing more obsessed with her face. But ironically, the more she obsessed over it, the worse the restoration became.


    He didn¡¯t know how tofort Song Xuan anymore.


    When they met this time, Song Xuan wore a hat and mask, fully hiding her face.


    "Xiao, this time my face will definitely be healed, right?" Her tears welled up uncontrobly at the thought of the scars on her face.


    Gu Qixiao had grown numb to tears like these. His sword-like brows furrowed slightly; this felt even harder than signing a contract.


    "It¡¯ll be fine. This expert has treated many simr cases before. You don¡¯t need to worry too much."


    Song Xuan rekindled hope, eagerly arriving with anticipation at the hospital where the expert was stationed.


    Gu Qixiao had already arranged everything in advance, so as soon as they arrived, they were directly escorted to the office.


    "You¡¯re the ones scheduled for this morning, right?"


    Teacher Shen saw how Song Xuan was dressed, and instantly understood everything.


    "Yes, Doctor Shen, could you take a look and evaluate how her face might be restored? Costs and equipment are not an issue."


    From the outset, they exuded wealth and confidence, but Teacher Shen didn¡¯t immediately agree.


    "First, let me see her face so I can make an assessment." She sat patiently to the side.


    In sharp contrast to Ji Yu from before.


    "Apparently, not every doctor has the same fiery temper as Ji Yu." He couldn¡¯t help but mutter under his breath.


    This time, however, the oue was somewhat unexpected, even leaving Teacher Shen visibly surprised upon seeing the situation.


    "Has this face undergone surgery before?"


    "It¡¯s been operated on twice. The first recovery was fairly decent; the second attempt didn¡¯t go so well." Gu Qixiao showed Teacher Shen the prior recovery records.


    Teacher Shen frowned deeply. "After the first surgery was so sessful, why undergo a second one?"


    Before Gu Qixiao could exin, Song Xuan already appeared impatient.


    "Doctor Shen, can my face still be treated? I was ignorant before."


    She simply wanted to end this discussion quickly.


    And she hoped to hear a definitive answer from Teacher Shen.


    "I¡¯m afraid I can¡¯t help with your face." Teacher Shen shook her head with a sigh.


    Faced with this condition, she seemed at a loss for how to start.


    "Much of your facial structure is so fragile that even minimal interference could cause deformation. With my current skills, it¡¯s extremely difficult to guarantee full restoration. At most, it can be reconstructed into a normal face with scars."


    Teacher Shen was pragmatic about such things.


    It¡¯s essential to clearly exin what cannot be guaranteed.


    Song Xuan¡¯s glimmer of hope dimmed again. She couldn¡¯t resign herself to having an unattractive face while standing by Gu Qixiao¡¯s side.


    She stubbornly believed that Gu Qixiao¡¯sck of affection toward her was solely because of her face.


    "Doctor Shen, is there absolutely no alternative? Or could you rmend another specialist in this field? Money and equipment are not an issue."


    Gu Qixiao also understood how much this situation affected Song Xuan.


    He knew she would likely feel greatly disappointed about this.


    Teacher Shen thought carefully. "Your face, in fact, still has hope, but only if you find the right person."


    She took out a business card from her bag. "This is my student. Her skills have now surpassed mine. If you can have her handle the surgery, the likelihood of sess will certainly be higher."


    Song Xuan took the card with anticipation.


    But upon noticing the name, Ji Yu, she began to lose herposure.


    Her ability to control her expression faltered. "Aren¡¯t you Ji Yu¡¯s teacher? Are you saying your skills aren¡¯t even better than your student¡¯s?"


    She refused to believe this and stared at Teacher Shen insistently, hoping for her to confirm otherwise.


    But Teacher Shen didn¡¯t think there was anything shameful about it.


    "A doctor¡¯s skills depend on talent. It¡¯spletely normal that I¡¯m not as proficient as my student. She¡¯s destined to go further down this path than I."


    She felt more pride andfort in this than embarrassment.


    But Song Xuan didn¡¯t understand; she simply thought Teacher Shen was saying it on purpose.


    "If your skills are this poor, why even call yourself an expert!"


    Gu Qixiao stopped her shouting, knowing that Song Xuan¡¯s emotions were fraying, which was why she spoke so harshly.


    "I¡¯m sorry, Doctor Shen. Xuanxuan is a bit emotionally overwhelmed. Could you help us schedule an appointment with the Doctor Ji you mentioned?"


    Startled by Song Xuan¡¯s agitation, Teacher Shen didn¡¯t take offense.

 Chapter 51: Only She Alone Can

    <h4>Chapter 51: Chapter 51: Only She Alone Can</h4>


    "Even if youe to me, it¡¯s useless. My student¡¯s surgery schedule is lined up for the next three years. It depends on whether this youngdy can wait."


    She had no intention of giving them any special treatment either.


    Besides, seeing their demeanor, Teacher Shen found it somewhat strange.


    She simply decided not to say anything further, waiting to see if they could secure an appointment on their own merits.


    Gu Qixiao felt a headacheing on. Knowing Ji Yu¡¯s temperament, he simply took Song Xuan and left straight away.


    Once outside, Song Xuan, exhausted from crying, looked pitifully at Gu Qixiao. "Xiao... do you despise me as well now? I knew it; I¡¯ll never be able to return to normal in this lifetime."


    Her bitter smile looked as though she was on the brink of copse.


    "Xiao, even if I stay like this forever, would you still marry me?"


    The veins on Gu Qixiao¡¯s forehead throbbed. "Xuanxuan, don¡¯t overthink it. The reason I won¡¯t marry you isn¡¯t because of your face¡ªit¡¯s because I only see you as my sister."


    Not wanting to provoke Song Xuan further, he simply focused on getting her back home.


    But Song Xuan was unwilling to let it go. "Xiao, since everyone says only Doctor Ji can save me, could you talk to her again for me?"


    She envisioned a bright future where her face was restored, and she could deal with that "bitch" afterward.


    Song Xuan¡¯s fantasies were borate, but Gu Qixiao had no way to reach Ji Yu.


    After what happenedst time, Ji Yu had blocked all of his contact details.


    "I¡¯ll think of something, but please stop overthinking things."


    Her endless overthinking was close to breaking Gu Qixiao.


    After achieving her goal, Song Xuan acted somewhat obedient, merely hoping her recovery could proceed smoothly.


    Meanwhile, Ji Yu received a call from her mentor. "Teacher, since you¡¯ve given them my contact information, whether theye to me or not is up to them. You don¡¯t need to worry about it."


    She wasn¡¯t nning on taking on too many surgeries anyway.


    She was pregnant now, and no matter what, she needed to take a break.


    "Teacher, I¡¯ve recently had the idea of taking some time off. I just haven¡¯t found the right moment yet."


    Teacher Shen was a little surprised but quickly expressed understanding. "To have achieved so much as a stic surgeon, you certainly deserve to rx for a bit. Sometimes, too much negativity can crush you."


    They routinely dealt withints from patients¡ªthis kind of pressure was a regr urrence.


    "Since they haven¡¯t taken the initiative to seek you out, they might be ready to give up. But actually, that youngdy had recovered quite well after the first round of correction. What a shame..."


    Ji Yu couldn¡¯t help but think about the past after hearing Teacher Shen¡¯sments, pausing momentarily before dismissing the coincidence and deciding not to dwell on it further.


    "I have some things to handle here. When you¡¯re back, I¡¯ll talk to you more about this."


    In truth, Teacher Shen hoped Ji Yu would take on the surgery, as the resources behind Gu Qixiao could undoubtedly elevate Ji Yu¡¯s career.


    After ending the call, Ji Yu wasn¡¯t particrly inclined to leave the house. She gazed at her still-t belly in a daze, as if the child woulde into being just through its own will.


    "Yu, Qinqin is here to see you."


    Madam Ji, knowing the strong bond between Feng Qinqin and Ji Yu, hoped her visit might lift Ji Yu¡¯s spirits.


    Feng Qinqin had heard that Ji Yu hadn¡¯t been herselftely, though she hadn¡¯t anticipated such dismal negativity.


    "Yuyu, what¡¯s going on? Has someone bullied you?"


    She looked at Ji Yu with concern, worried she might have been mistreated.


    Ji Yu shook her head. "Who would dare bully me? It¡¯s just that I¡¯ve had a lot to deal withtely, and it¡¯s tiring."


    Lately, she¡¯d been dealing non-stop with Gu Qixiao¡ªhow could she not be exhausted?


    Knowing her friend¡¯s personality, Feng Qinqin figured the idea of Ji Yu being bullied was unlikely.


    "If you¡¯re so worn out, why not take a break? Want to head to our usual spot?"


    Winking at Ji Yu, she obviously wanted to drag her to a bar for some fun.


    Ji Yu thought about it and decided to consider the baby in her belly. "Let¡¯s just grab a meal first, and then see about the rest."


    "Alright, I actually have some serious business to talk to you about."


    She had been wanting to rant to Ji Yu about this matter for a while now.


    Now that she had the chance, she wasn¡¯t about to let it slip.


    "Oh, by the way, Yuyu, I have good news to share first: my family¡¯s financial crisis has been resolved."


    No wonder she seemed so relieved.


    Ji Yu was genuinely happy for the Feng family.


    "The Gu family resumed their coboration with you?"


    Feng Qinqin nodded. "Of course. Who else has the capabilities to pull us back from the brink so quickly?"


    The thought of it still filled her with some resentment.


    However, Ji Yu thought Gu Qixiao¡¯s character was decent enough.


    At the very least, his decision this time seemed entirely correct.


    "Since the coboration issue is resolved, Gu Qixiao might not be as cold-hearted as we thought. He seems like a decent guy."


    Feng Qinqin sneered, her delicate face tinged with mockery. Clearly, she held little regard for Gu Qixiao.


    "Yuyu, clearly, you¡¯re not in the know. Do you think they willingly came back to work with us? It was only because their new partner ran into problems that they had to turn back to us."


    The thought of it left her feeling indignant.


    But her family had no choice but to ept the coboration.


    "You don¡¯t know how outrageous their family can be. But we¡¯re no match for the Gu family, so we had to finalize the coboration."


    She sighed, clearly unimpressed with Gu Qixiao.


    Ji Yu, who had been about to sing Gu Qixiao¡¯s praises, suddenly found her words stuck in her throat, leaving her feeling ufortable.


    "I suppose this means Gu Qixiao is trying to make up for his past mistakes through your family."


    That was one way to look at it.


    Feng Qinqin had no fondness whatsoever for Gu Qixiao. "Good thing you divorced him. Imagine how unlucky you¡¯d be if you were still married to him."


    Thinking about how Ji Yu hadn¡¯t even seen Gu Qixiao for three years during their marriage, she felt indignant on Ji Yu¡¯s behalf.


    But Ji Yu wasn¡¯t particrly moved.


    "That¡¯s all in the past already. There¡¯s no possibility of anything between us anymore."


    The only thing tying her up inside now was this child.


    She gently ced a hand on her t belly, involuntarily recalling everything from before.


    "Yuyu, why do you seem so distracted? You¡¯re not still stewing over what I said just now, are you? Rx, that¡¯s all behind us now."


    The Feng family¡¯s crisis had passed, so there was no need to dwell on it anymore.


    Ji Yu smiled faintly. "As long as everything¡¯s okay."


    Still, she found herself increasingly conflicted about whether to keep the child.


    If Gu Qixiao wasn¡¯t such a good person, this child absolutely could not have any connection to him.


    The problem was, biologically, Gu Qixiao was still this child¡¯s father, making everything all the moreplicated.

 Chapter 52: Something Is Not Right

    <h4>Chapter 52: Chapter 52: Something Is Not Right</h4>


    "Yuyu, what¡¯s wrong? Ever since we went out today, you¡¯ve been distracted. This isn¡¯t like you."


    She had been worried about Ji Yu¡¯s condition before, and now it seemed things had indeed taken a serious turn.


    Even when speaking, she was drifting off¡ªhow serious could this matter be?


    "I¡¯m fine." Ji Yu forced a bitter smile; she wasn¡¯t ready to tell anyone about the matter with the child just yet.


    After the dinner, Feng Qinqin couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that Ji Yu was acting strangely, though she couldn¡¯t pinpoint exactly what was off.


    She could only plead sincerely, "Yuyu, if anything¡¯s bothering you, please don¡¯t keep it to yourself. I¡¯m here for you. You can talk to me about anything."


    Ji Yu was amused. "Do I seem like the kind of person who¡¯d do something reckless?"


    She had been very clear about her stance from the beginning.


    Only then did Feng Qinqin feel reassured.


    "Alright, I¡¯ll head back first."


    Just as Ji Yu was about to get into her car, she heard her phone ring. Initially thinking it was her parents urging her to return, she answered the call, only to realize it was Gu Qixiao.


    "Don¡¯t hang up."


    He knew Ji Yu wouldn¡¯t answer his calls, so he¡¯d gone to the trouble of using another number.


    "I have something I want to talk to you about¡ªjust a proper discussion, no ulterior motives."


    His tone was somewhat urgent, though Ji Yu¡¯s thoughts drifted to her diagnosis report.


    Recalling Feng Qinqin¡¯s earlier words, Ji Yu became more convinced that he wasn¡¯t a good person.


    "Are you done? If you are, I¡¯m hanging up."


    Seeing that Ji Yu still had no intention of meeting, Gu Qixiao brought up the diagnosis report from thest time.


    "I found your diagnosis report earlier. Don¡¯t you want to take it back?"


    The diagnosis report?


    Ji Yu thought about how she hadn¡¯t seen her diagnosis report in her bag. Initially, she figured she must¡¯ve thrown it into the trash, but now it seemed likely that it had ended up there.


    "I don¡¯t need it. You can keep it."


    With that, Ji Yu hung up the call, solidifying her belief that Gu Qixiao was nothing but trouble.


    After all, who would use someone¡¯s diagnosis report to threaten them?


    However, judging by Gu Qixiao¡¯s tone, he likely still didn¡¯t know about the child.


    She couldn¡¯t help feeling a bit troubled. For now, she hadn¡¯te up with any new ns.


    Yet, Dion¡¯s matters still required her attention.


    Even if she didn¡¯t want to go out, she had no choice but toe.


    "Ji Yu!"


    She froze for a moment when she heard Gu Qixiao¡¯s voice.


    She quickly snapped back, "Mr. Gu, I¡¯ve said before¡ªthere¡¯s nothing for us to discuss. Youing to me won¡¯t change my mind."


    Her face, delicate and refined, bore an expression of disdain, as if dealing with someone like him was an absolute burden.


    Gu Qixiao¡¯s face turned as sour as if he¡¯d swallowed a fly.


    Even hisposure was faltering.


    "Doctor Ji, I want to talk to you about Song Xuan¡¯s face."


    He genuinely cared about Song Xuan¡¯s matter.


    Seeing a crowd starting to gather nearby, Ji Yu didn¡¯t want to create too much of a spectacle.


    "Let¡¯s discuss this in the office. I still have matters to handle. If you can wait, then wait; if not, leave sooner rather thanter."


    She understood how valuable Gu Qixiao¡¯s time was, curious to see if he was truly willing to go all out for his little lover.


    Gu Qixiao frowned but eventually followed her to the office.


    Dion¡¯s condition had improved significantly, and he couldn¡¯t help but greet Ji Yu with a smile when she arrived.


    "Recovering this quickly is all thanks to Congxin."


    It had given him hope for a full recovery.


    Ji Yu smiled back. "The main reason is that you¡¯ve been cooperative. Our hospital has always focused on patients who follow instructions."


    As she spoke, she nced pointedly in Gu Qixiao¡¯s direction, seemingly unintentionally.


    Gu Qixiao frowned slightly. He understood perfectly who she was referring to.


    Nheless, Dion¡¯s recovery did give him hope.


    If Song Xuan¡¯s face could regain its previous state, perhaps she wouldn¡¯t continue causing trouble.


    "I trust Congxin¡¯s expertise and won¡¯t make any rash moves. However, I still can¡¯t use exaggerated facial expressions yet¡ªDoctor Ji, when do you think I¡¯ll fully recover?"


    "Your face doesn¡¯t appear to have changed muchpared to before. However, the prior damage is irreversible. I hope Mr. Zhou can prepare himself mentally for that." Ji Yu genuinely felt regret for his once wless face.


    Such a naturally beautiful face, now permanently marred.


    Dion seemed a bit dejected, but he appeared to understand that physiological constraints couldn¡¯t be ovee by technology.


    "Got it."


    He was also aware of the rumors circting online and couldn¡¯t help but feel indignant on Ji Yu¡¯s behalf. "Doctor Ji, do you need me to speak out for you online?"


    "No need. This matter has already passed. If you make another statement, it might stir up trouble again, with more peopleing to our hospital to kick up a fuss."


    She had grown ustomed to these sorts of things.


    Besides, wasn¡¯t someone already here to cause trouble?


    Her gaze turned to Gu Qixiao, filled with impatience.


    Gu Qixiao couldn¡¯t help but feel uneasy under her look.


    Why was her demeanor so gentle toward others, yet so prickly toward him?


    Finally, after Dion left, Gu Qixiao couldn¡¯t wait any longer. "Alright, tell me¡ªwhat do I have to do to get you to treat Song Xuan¡¯s face?"


    Ji Yu¡¯s expression carried a hint of irony. "President Gu, my skills aren¡¯t that great. I might not be able to treat Miss Song¡¯s condition. Why don¡¯t you ask someone else instead?"


    Her expression was innocent, but there was no way Gu Qixiao was going to believe her.


    "You just don¡¯t want to help, right? Is it about money?" He was deeply suspicious of Ji Yu¡¯s intentions.


    Ji Yu, on the other hand, simply didn¡¯t want to be involved in Song Xuan¡¯s business.


    "President Gu, it¡¯s in writing¡ªMiss Song¡¯s future procedures with other providers have no connection to us at Congxin. If you¡¯re here to see me, you should get back in line."


    She didn¡¯t relent at all. From the very start, she had been crystal clear, yet they acted as if they hadn¡¯t heard a word.


    Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t want toe across as ignorant himself.


    The main issue was Song Xuan¡¯s incessant nagging, pushing him to seek Ji Yu¡¯s help¡ªeven if he didn¡¯t want to.


    Knowing this, he felt frustrated, but Ji Yu was undeniably the most qualified for the task.


    "Doctor Ji, Song Xuan was in the wrong before. If you¡¯re willing to reconsider and perform surgery for her, I¡¯ll agree to any condition you have."


    His straightforwardness indicated that if Ji Yu agreed, everything would quickly fall into ce.


    Yet Ji Yu¡¯s demeanor remained indifferent. "Apologies, but I have my principles. I don¡¯t work with people whock them."


    And with that, the two remained at an impasse.


    Ji Yu had long since deemed him untrustworthy, leaving no room forpromise.


    "President Gu, if you¡¯ve run out of arguments, why not step aside? There are others waiting to see me¡ªI can¡¯t spend all my time on you."


    Her gaze toward Gu Qixiao resembled that reserved for refuse.


    That look tested Gu Qixiao¡¯s patience, making him restless. "Ji Yu, I¡¯m giving you onest chance¡ªwill you agree or not?"


    "And if I refuse? What then? Is President Gu nning to resort to violence?" Ji Yu sneered coldly, her voice tinged with irony.

 Chapter 53: Don’t Want Children

    <h4>Chapter 53: Chapter 53: Don¡¯t Want Children</h4>


    Ji Yu had run out of patience with Gu Qixiao, "Since President Gu doesn¡¯t want to hit me, shouldn¡¯t you be leaving?"


    She never intended to help Song Xuan from the start.


    Now, the sins shemitted must be repaid by herself.


    Gu Qixiao gritted his teeth, it was clear Ji Yu was doing this on purpose, and for a moment he felt a little unwilling.


    But in such aplex situation, he could only leave for now.


    However, just as he was leaving, he suddenly remembered Ji Yu¡¯s pregnancy.


    He couldn¡¯t help but return, wanting to ask Ji Yu why she was so quickly together with Lu Xingchen, even having a child.


    "Doctor, please help me schedule a surgery, I don¡¯t want this child anymore."


    She couldn¡¯t be sure how much contact this child would have with Gu Qixiao in the future.


    Thinking about how seriously Gu Qixiao treated this little lover, even if the child were born it wouldn¡¯t have a father¡¯s love.


    "Ji Yu, are you so irresponsible?"


    When Gu Qixiao heard Ji Yu say she didn¡¯t want the child, he inexplicably grew furious.


    Seeing Gu Qixiao lose his mind in front of her, Ji Yu couldn¡¯t help but roll her eyes, "Then let¡¯s leave it at that, thank you very much."


    After hanging up the phone, Ji Yu finally had time to deal with Gu Qixiao, "Did President Gue back because I haven¡¯t scolded you enough?"


    She never holds back.


    But Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t want Ji Yu to have an abortion, "Ji Yu, how can you be so irresponsible? Your husband treats you so well, don¡¯t be ungrateful."


    Ji Yu just felt it was inexplicable.


    Where on earth does this man get such confidence?


    But she was already a bit impatient, already unwilling to listen to Gu Qixiao¡¯s sermon, and now being used of irresponsibility.


    "President Gu really has a lot of free time. Does this child have anything to do with President Gu?"


    She didn¡¯t want to argue with Gu Qixiao about these things, and regarding the husband she hadn¡¯t seen for three years, Shen Qingqing didn¡¯t want to say anything else.


    "To put it bluntly, whether this child stays or I have an abortion, what¡¯s it to you?"


    Gu Qixiao never expected her to be so blunt, all the words of persuasion were stuck in his throat, unable toe up or go down.


    Regarding other matters, Ji Yu didn¡¯t n to say much, "Didn¡¯t President Gu already leave? Surely you didn¡¯te back just because I was going to have an abortion?"


    Ji Yu hadn¡¯t had any good feelings towards Gu Qixiao from the start.


    Now seeing him so anxious about Song Xuan, naturally made her even more annoyed.


    "Shouldn¡¯t President Gu be rushing to see your little lover? Wasting so much time here with me, your little lover might get upset."


    If Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t have something he needed from Ji Yu, he wouldn¡¯t have been so tolerant.


    "Doctor Ji, I need you to treat Song Xuan, I won¡¯t mind about your child, but you must handle Song Xuan¡¯s matter."


    This sentence made Ji Yuugh in anger.


    "Haha, impossible."


    He could forsake his child, but he must care about his lover¡¯s life or death.


    Truly devoted indeed.


    Thinking about it made Ji Yu nauseous.


    "President Gu, stop pretending to be so affectionate. Why not ask other doctors for help instead of wasting time with me."


    Such a scoundrel should be tied to Song Xuan.


    Wasting such a handsome face.


    Ji Yu nced at Gu Qixiao¡¯s face, feeling a bit of pity in her heart.


    "As long as you¡¯re willing to treat Song Xuan, I can agree to anything you want."


    It was obvious Gu Qixiao suspected Ji Yu of having other motives from the start, and now he wanted to see if Ji Yu had any demands herself.


    Ji Yu smiled, "Is that so? It seems President Gu is indeed deeply in love, but unfortunately, I don¡¯tck anything."


    Her smile seemed capable of melting hearts, but her words were cold.


    Gu Qixiao had never seen someone with such a contrast.


    Smiling on the outside, yet with eyes colder than anyone else¡¯s.


    "What, does President Gu want to stay and watch me eat lunch?"


    She was bing impatient, pondering why this ex-husband of hers was like stubborn glue.


    Having already reunited happily with his little lover, why bothering here to make his presence known?


    "Others can¡¯t perform this surgery, I can offer you a higher price, or provide resources, as long as you agree to this, I can pay any price."


    He didn¡¯t want to continue owing this favor.


    Hearing this, Ji Yu suddenly changed her mind, "Really? That could work, but I¡¯m afraid President Gu can¡¯t do it."


    Gu Qixiao watched Ji Yu¡¯s suddenly bright smile, feeling a bad premonition.


    Could Ji Yu have other intentions?


    The thought made him ponder deeply.


    "What, is President Gu afraid? Or you don¡¯t want to save Miss Song?"


    Her eyes were filled with provocation, and a hint of probing.


    Wanting to see if Gu Qixiao was truly willing to do anything.


    "Fine." Gu Qixiao took a deep breath, eventually agreeing to the demand.


    A trace of disappointment flickered in Ji Yu¡¯s eyes, "If so, President Gu, bring me a star from the sky. If you can do that, Miss Song¡¯s face can be saved."


    She seemed serious, but her request almost made Gu Qixiao rage.


    "You¡¯re doing this on purpose?" His cold eyes were filled with anger, appearing ready to fight.


    But Ji Yu wasn¡¯t afraid, "Yes, I¡¯m doing it on purpose. If you want me to treat Miss Song, exchange it for a star from the sky. Can¡¯t President Gu do anything?"


    Her behavior was entirely beyond Gu Qixiao¡¯s control.


    Gu Qixiao, fueled with rage, couldn¡¯t help but suspect Ji Yu wanted to anger him to death.


    Fortunately, Tian had an issue and came to Ji Yu, diverting the topic.


    "President Gu, why are you still standing here? Hurry and go pick a star."


    Ji Yu¡¯s lips curled into a mischievous smile, seemingly ready to see if Gu Qixiao could really bring back a star.


    The anger that had subsided slightly was once again provoked.


    Gu Qixiao¡¯s expression turned frighteningly cold, "Ji Yu, you¡¯d better not push people too far."


    "What do you mean by pushing too far? President Gu, you call a demand you can¡¯t meet ¡¯pushing too far¡¯? That¡¯s a bit excessive."


    She wanted to see if Gu Qixiao would indeed do anything for Song Xuan.


    Unfortunately, Gu Qixiao left in a rage.


    Ji Yu suddenly felt a bit unfulfilled.


    "Sister Yu, why did you press this President Gu so hard?"


    They knew Ji Yu, though often bad-tempered, would never casually toy with people.


    Ji Yu rubbed her temples, her small face tinged with annoyance, "Nothing, just that this person is too clingy, it¡¯s good to let him back off."


    So he wouldn¡¯te looking for her to treat Song Xuan againter.


    In any case, the conditions are set. Let¡¯s see if Gu Qixiao can manage it or not.

 Chapter 54 Concerns

    <h4>Chapter 54: Chapter 54 Concerns</h4>


    However, Ji Yu didn¡¯t dwell too much on this matter.


    She knew Gu Qixiao couldn¡¯t fulfill this request. As for the child¡¯s situation, she had already made up her mind.


    But unexpectedly, before heading to the hospital, she received a call from the director mom.


    "Yu, Granny Li, who always cared for you before, is sick. She lived her whole life without children, and the only ones she worries about are you kids. I hope you can find time toe back and see her."


    Ji Yu¡¯s heart trembled. Back at the orphanage, Granny Li had showered her with care, and now hearing such news made her feel deeply saddened.


    "Director Mom, what illness does Granny have?"


    She wondered if there was still a chance for recovery.


    But the director mom sighed, saying that Granny Li¡¯s condition was beyond relief. "It¡¯s cancer, and the doctor said she won¡¯t have much time left."


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t say anything else and simply replied that she understood.


    After hanging up, she stared nkly at her phone, never imagining time would pass so fast. Even Granny Li, who was once rtively healthy, was now nearing her end.


    She exined the orphanage situation to Tian and prepared to stay at the orphanage for a while.


    "Sister Yu, if President Gues back again..."


    "Ignore him. Just tell him if he can¡¯t meet my request, he doesn¡¯t need toe looking for me anymore." Ji Yu didn¡¯t have the time to waste on him.


    Besides, Granny Li¡¯s situation had left Ji Yu¡¯s mind in chaos. She needed to return quickly to see her.


    The drive to the orphanage wasn¡¯t far, but Ji Yu felt this stretch of road was especially heart-wrenching.


    The director mom spotted Ji Yu immediately and waved at her with a smile.


    "Why did youe so quickly, my girl?"


    Ji Yu looked at the wrinkles on her face and suddenly felt bittersweet. Time had flown by so fast, and now, she even had a little life waiting inside her...


    "Director Mom, I¡¯m nning to stay here for a few days, take care of Granny Li, and also check on the kids in the orphanage."


    She had endured the pain of being without parents, and now she wanted to bring some warmth to these children.


    Upon hearing this, the director momughed lightly, "That¡¯s good. It¡¯s wonderful that you have this in your heart. How¡¯s life outside?"


    A wave of warmth swept over Ji Yu¡¯s heart. "Everything is fine."


    She no longer had to worry about basic needs, and the Ji family treated her very well.


    But right now, her heart was more drawn to the children in the orphanage.


    "Director Mom, has the number of children been increasingtely?"


    The director mom looked at the little lives around her, her kind face carrying a trace of sorrow. "These children were either abandoned at birth or have lost both parents. I try to help whenever I can, which is why I¡¯ve kept all of them here."


    At the very least, they would have a ce to stay.


    Ji Yu understood the director mom¡¯s kindness and knew she cared deeply about these children.


    "How¡¯s Granny Li¡¯s condition?"


    She was worried that Granny Li¡¯s situation wouldn¡¯t look good.


    But to her surprise, the elderlydy appeared quite spirited, though she couldn¡¯t escape the ravages of illness, looking frail and thin.


    "Yu, you¡¯vee?" Granny Li still recognized Ji Yu.


    "You¡¯ve always been such a pretty child, and now you¡¯re even more beautiful." She had always been kind to Ji Yu and now hoped they could chat properly.


    But Ji Yu could hardly muster happiness in the face of the current situation.


    "You two chat; I¡¯ll go outside to check on the children."


    The director mom knew they must have many things to talk about.


    But Ji Yu didn¡¯t know how to start the conversation for a moment.


    Granny Li, however, wasn¡¯t too concerned about her illness. "There¡¯s no need to worry about me, silly girl. I¡¯m old now. What old person doesn¡¯t get sick?"


    She smiled as usual, but Ji Yu couldn¡¯t help but worry about her condition.


    "Granny, your health isn¡¯t improving. Why don¡¯t I take you to the hospital for another checkup? There might still be a chance for treatment."


    But Granny Li waved it off, "Getting old means there¡¯s no need to waste money anymore. An old woman like me doesn¡¯t have much reason to live; my only concern is about you kids."


    She had spent most of her life volunteering at the orphanage, and seeing Ji Yu and the others doing well now brought her joy.


    "Don¡¯t trouble yourself over my treatment. I know my own body. Since things havee to this, there¡¯s no need to think about unnecessary things anymore."


    She lived freely.


    She didn¡¯t regret spending her life without children.


    Looking at Ji Yu was akin to looking at her own child.


    "Don¡¯t waste that money on me. Hospital time means dealing with the smell of disinfectant, which I hate the most."


    She had always liked living in clean ces.


    The more Granny Li spoke this way, the harder Ji Yu found it to calm down her feelings.


    But she also understood¡ªGranny Li¡¯s choice wasn¡¯t necessarily a bad one.


    "Yu, I watched you grow up. You¡¯ll be doing better and better. You¡¯re a child with good fortune."


    Granny Li held Ji Yu¡¯s hand and told her about the orphanage¡¯s recent events.


    Ji Yu listened patiently and asionally asked if there was anything she could help with.


    "The environment now is much better than before. Most peoplee to donate food and toys, and the children don¡¯t have to go hungry. It¡¯s pretty good."


    They were satisfied with the current situation.


    Ji Yu couldn¡¯t help but smile along. "These kids will have wonderful futures too."


    She believed the children would be well taken care of.


    But she still hoped Granny Li wouldn¡¯t face any danger.


    "Yu, don¡¯t feel sad anymore. Ever since you came in, you¡¯ve been holding back tears. You¡¯re a grown-up now, so why are you still so prone to crying?"


    Granny Li gently rubbed Ji Yu¡¯s head, as ifforting her just like when she was a child.


    Ji Yu couldn¡¯t hold back anymore, "Granny, I¡¯ll step out for a moment. I¡¯lle back to see youter."


    After stepping outside, Ji Yu¡¯s tears finally fell uncontrobly.


    She seldom cried, but seeing the Granny who had cared for her so much now on the verge of leaving broke herposure.


    "Sister, why are you crying?" A sweet voice sounded next to Ji Yu.


    Ji Yu turned around to find, to her surprise, a little girl with braids standing behind her. In a daze, Ji Yu seemed to see a vision of her younger self.


    "Sister, what happened? Are you upset? Here, have some candy." The little girl smiled brightly and held out a lollipop to Ji Yu.


    Ji Yu nkly epted it, feeling a little lost.


    "After eating my candy, you shouldn¡¯t be sad anymore." The little girl smiled at Ji Yu as if yfully reminding her that she was an adult being consoled by a child.


    Ji Yu wiped her tears away, finally stopping herself from dwelling on what had just happened.


    "Little one, do you know Granny Li?"


    "Yes! Granny Li has always been with us. But the director mom said Granny Li has been tiredtely and needs to rest."


    The little girl spoke with a hint of sadness.

 Chapter 55: Revised - 55 Melancholy

    <h4>Chapter 55: Revised: Chapter 55 Mncholy</h4>


    They¡¯re still young, unaware of birth, aging, illness, and death.


    But Ji Yu already understands.


    Hearing such words, it¡¯s hard not to feel sentimental.


    "How about I take you to visit Granny Li?"


    This time, Ji Yu had a little girl with her. When Granny Li saw the two of them, she couldn¡¯t help but smile.


    "You two little girls really look alike. In the future, if there¡¯s a chance, you should spend more time together."


    She liked both of the girls very much.


    And she appreciated the ways Ji Yu had grown.


    "You don¡¯t have to worry so much about the things in the orphanage, child. I¡¯ve heard from the director that even when you don¡¯te back, you still send things."


    She knew Ji Yu repaid kindness, but sometimes, such things should be done in moderation.


    Ji Yu smiled lightly, "Isn¡¯t this my way of thanking you all? Besides, no matter how much I give, it can never repay all the care you gave me before."


    Thinking about the past, she couldn¡¯t help but feel sentimental.


    Now that she thought about it, she really was thankful to Granny Li and the others for looking after her for so long.


    "You child, I really don¡¯t know what to say about you. Xiu, why don¡¯t you take Sister Yu around the orphanage for a stroll?"


    Only then did Ji Yu learn the little girl¡¯s name.


    But she felt a bit reluctant to leave Granny Li, worried that something might happen once she stepped away.


    "You don¡¯t need to worry about me. My body can still carry on for a while. I¡¯m just a bit tired and need a good sleep."


    She knew she might not have much time left, but she still hoped the children could live well.


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t say anything further and left the room with Xiu.


    Xiu could sense that Ji Yu was feeling down. "Sister Yu, are you unhappy after seeing Granny Li?"


    This wasn¡¯t a matter of being happy or unhappy.


    It was just that the situation felt a bit helpless.


    Of course, Ji Yu wouldn¡¯t pass on such emotions to a child. "How about Sister takes you to y for a while? Introduce your little friends to me."


    "Okay!"


    Xiu cheerfully dragged Ji Yu along to meet her little friends.


    The director was busy worrying about a few mischievous kids.


    Seeing Ji Yu didn¡¯t surprise her.


    "This is the age when children are particrly naughty. Even if they¡¯re a little sensible, it¡¯s impossible to change a child¡¯s nature."


    But she was already ustomed to looking after them.


    "Since Granny Li¡¯s health isn¡¯t well, maybe we should get a few more volunteers."


    Ji Yu also knew the director had a hard time running things, so she decided to help find some volunteers.


    "We¡¯ve already arranged for some, but it¡¯ll take time before they arrive." She, too, felt reluctant about Granny Li.


    But birth, aging, illness, and death¡ªit¡¯s a cycle no one could escape.


    "You don¡¯t need to be overly worried about Granny Li¡¯s condition. She¡¯s more optimistic than anyone else; she doesn¡¯t need you to worry."


    Deep down, the director understood why things hade to this.


    Still, Ji Yu was a little distracted. While ying with the kids, she could feel that they were all quite well-behaved.


    "Sister Yu, you¡¯re so pretty. When I grow up, I want to be as beautiful as you."


    Ji Yu was amused by thepliment. "You¡¯re already beautiful. Every person has their own unique beauty; there¡¯s no need to look like anyone else."


    Such words might be too profound for them to grasp, but Ji Yu understood clearly. Every face is a unique work of art¡ªwhether it¡¯s beautiful or wed, there¡¯s no need to worry.


    "Since you like Sister, how about Sister helps you doll up a little?"


    With that, Ji Yu took out her makeup bag. Inside were some simple skincare products. She started tying little braids for them one by one. Even the boys who wanted to try something weren¡¯t rejected by Ji Yu.


    "Sister Yu, you¡¯re so kind."


    "Everyone has things they¡¯re interested in. Even boys can enjoy these." Ji Yu applied a little light makeup for them.


    The way they looked now waspletely different.


    "Sister Yu, you¡¯re so talented. I want to be like you when I grow up and make people look beautiful."


    It was great that they showed interest.


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t mind their enthusiasm for such things.


    "If you enjoy it, feel free to try it out. Don¡¯t overthink it. If you need anything, you cane and talk to Sister Yu."


    She wouldn¡¯t tell anyone theycked talent. At the very least, people learn what interests them faster than what doesn¡¯t.


    The children all liked Ji Yu, crowding around her, saving the director quite a lot of trouble.


    "Yu, keep an eye on the kids for me while I go meet the representatives of the donation organization arriving this afternoon."


    "Sure." Ji Yu knew some organizations regrly donated money and supplies to the orphanage, which wasn¡¯t unusual.


    "Sister Yu, can we still y with these pretty looks?"


    They were a little torn, afraid their makeup would get dirty.


    "Of course, you can. If it gets smudged, Sister Yu will redo it for you."


    She patiently soothed the kids.


    Even while ying games like "Catch the Chickens," Ji Yu was seriously engaged.


    "Sister Yu, I caught you!"


    "Xiu, you¡¯re amazing." Ji Yu praised her generously, her earlier heavy mood somewhat relieved.


    The children were like little angels.


    Meanwhile, the director quickly went to greet the arrivals.


    "Mr. Gu, thank you so much for your generosity toward our orphanage."


    She always had positive feelings toward people like this.


    Gu Qixiao had originallye to the area for a project. Stopping by the orphanage was just a convenient detour.


    Hearing the familiarughter from inside surprised him.


    "Are people ying in the courtyard?"


    "Yes, one of the children who grew up here came back to visit. She¡¯s ying with the kids now." At that, the director¡¯s face lit up with pride.


    Clearly, she was proud of Ji Yu¡¯s character.


    Gu Qixiao found the voice increasingly familiar.


    He decided to follow the director to have a look.


    And he discovered it truly was Ji Yu.


    This version of Ji Yu was very different from the one in his memory.


    She was smiling, ying games with the children. Even when they dirtied her clothes, she didn¡¯t show a hint ofint.


    "Yu has been spending time caring for the kids since she returned. She¡¯s undoubtedly the orphanage¡¯s most sessful girl."


    The director knew a bit about Ji Yu¡¯s current situation. She was aware that Ji Yu had built a little world of her own with her skills.


    Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t speak but recognized just how impressive Ji Yu was. Coming from an orphanage and reaching such heights was no easy feat.


    Unconsciously, he found himselfughing along with her.


    "President Gu, thank you for your charity toward these children. It seems you like them a lot."


    Only then did Gu Qixiao realize he had been smiling along.


    Thinking about it, Ji Yu didn¡¯t seem as unpleasant as before.


    "I¡¯m just a businessman and don¡¯t understand these things. I only hope the donations are used in the right ces."

 Chapter 56 Donation

    <h4>Chapter 56: Chapter 56 Donation</h4>


    Ji Yu had no idea who wasing to the orphanage this time to make a donation.


    All she knew was that this time it seemed to be a particrly generous gesture.


    "Alright, that¡¯s it for today. You all need to nap now, okay? Big sister wille y with you again tomorrow, alright?"


    She could stay here and wait for the new volunteers to arrive before heading back.


    She was well aware that the orphanage¡¯s director couldn¡¯t handle everything alone.


    The children obediently prepared to rest.


    Meanwhile, Gu Qixiao had gone to the director¡¯s office. "Director, I¡¯d like to learn more about your orphanage. I¡¯m considering making an additional donation¡ªwhat do you think?"


    The director was a bit surprised; she hadn¡¯t expected Gu Qixiao to say that.


    She hesitated inwardly. "Since you¡¯ve mentioned it, President Gu, why don¡¯t youe with me to look over the children¡¯s profiles first?"


    She genuinely hoped for a better life for the children.


    But she would never dream of exploiting anyone¡¯s goodwill deliberately.


    Gu Qixiao had his own motives. If he donated more to the orphanage, perhaps Ji Yu would agree to help treat Song Xuan¡¯s face.


    Ji Yu, however, waspletely unaware of this. She was still chatting with Granny Li.


    "Why are you wasting time here with me, child? You have your own affairs; go take care of them. Why linger with this old bag of bones?"


    Ji Yu shook her head. "It just so happens that I¡¯m feeling a bit losttely, unsure of what choices to make. Granny, you¡¯re sick too. Staying here to care for you feels just right."


    She had always wanted to stay at the orphanage.


    Granny Li frowned. "What¡¯s troubling you so deeply? Why don¡¯t you share it with this olddy? Maybe then, you won¡¯t have to wrestle with it anymore."


    Ji Yu, however, didn¡¯t want to tell anyone about the pregnancy.


    "Granny, I wouldn¡¯t know where to begin. It¡¯s just that making a decision has been difficult. I don¡¯t know when I¡¯ll be able to truly make up my mind."


    The thoughts of not wanting this child had already softened during her time with the children.


    She didn¡¯t even know what kind of life this child would have after being born, nor could she guarantee being responsible for them¡ªand that was why she felt conflicted.


    "You, my dear, think too much. Sometimes, it¡¯s best to follow your heart and not oveplicate things."


    Granny Li had taught Ji Yu this from the beginning, but now Ji Yu couldn¡¯t shake the mncholy of the current situation.


    "Granny, I feel like I¡¯ve lost myself."


    She didn¡¯t understand why things had turned out this way.


    Granny Li remained smiling. "Silly girl, you¡¯re still you¡ªhow could you ever lose yourself?"


    She patientlyforted Ji Yu, hoping the girl wouldn¡¯t agonize over this anymore.


    Ji Yu¡¯s heart felt unsettled, but she also understood whaty ahead.


    "I understand, but Granny, won¡¯t you really let me take you to the hospital for an exam?"


    She couldn¡¯t bear to see Granny Li leave like this.


    Granny Li sighed deeply. "Child, why trouble yourself with all this? Life and death are natural cycles. Remember how I educated you before? Now that I¡¯ve be like this, I just hope I won¡¯t burden you all anymore."


    With no children of her own, she had no concerns about these things.


    "What I cannot let go of are you kids. If I continued treatment, I¡¯d only drag you down¡ªisn¡¯t that a sin?"


    She had made these matters abundantly clear to herself.


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t know how to respond.


    While she knew Granny Li¡¯s words were reasonable, from her own perspective, she still wished Granny Li could live on fully.


    "Don¡¯t think too much, silly girl! You always overthink everything; at this rate, you¡¯ll turn into a fool,"


    Granny Li chuckled as she ruffled Ji Yu¡¯s hair, reminding her not to be weighed down by such thoughts.


    Ji Yu stayed in Granny Li¡¯s room all night, taking care of her without rest.


    Only during the quiet of night did she realize how serious Granny Li¡¯s condition was: even breathing was painful, sounding like a machine on the verge of breaking down¡ªexisting on borrowed time.


    This time, Ji Yu finally understood how fleeting and unpredictable life could be¡ªeven with the best intentions, you still couldn¡¯t hold onto lives fated to slip away.


    "Yu, why are you still here?"


    Granny Li, who slept fitfully, noticed her and couldn¡¯t help but look over at Ji Yu.


    Ji Yu smiled. "I couldn¡¯t sleep, so I stayed here to check on you."


    "Silly child, why waste your time on an olddy like me?"


    Granny Li couldn¡¯t help but cough, finding the night exceptionally hard to endure.


    Seeing Granny Li in this state, Ji Yu felt a pang of sorrow and didn¡¯t know how to ease her pain.


    "I don¡¯t feel well, and yet, you seem even more distressed than I am. Do you know why I don¡¯t stay in the hospital? It¡¯s because I don¡¯t want to suffer anymore. Departing like this is fine by me."


    She was determined to forego treatment, not wanting to be a burden to anyone.


    Ji Yu had juste to understand this concept, and her heart ached with longing for Granny Li. "Granny, I¡¯ve been thinking about my childhoodtely."


    People couldn¡¯t stay young forever.


    Ji Yu spent the entire night lost in silent contemtion.


    The next morning, news spread that a wealthy businessman had donated a substantial sum to the orphanage.


    "What a kind-hearted gentleman,"


    The director remarked cheerfully while talking about the donor, clearly delighted.


    "Mr. Gu even arranged for medical personnel to examine the children. Not only that, he¡¯s preparing prosthetics for them¡ªI don¡¯t know how to properly thank him."


    When Ji Yu heard the name "Mr. Gu," she already had a hunch.


    Looking up, sure enough, she saw Gu Qixiao standing among the medical team, his gaze fixated directly on her.


    She raised an eyebrow, surprised that Gu Qixiao could have such apassionate side.


    "Director Mom, you should be wary of certain people using this opportunity to do deceitful things,"


    She quipped.


    The director gave her a helpless look. "How can you say things like that, child? Mr. Gu has actually been a consistent donor to our orphanage. But this time, he¡¯s gone above and beyond, arranging this entire event¡ªI don¡¯t know what caused it."


    What else could it be? It was clearly for her, to secure her help with surgery.


    Ji Yu couldn¡¯t pretend not to understand Gu Qixiao¡¯s intentions.


    However, Ji Yu remained calm, her mind free from unnecessary distractions.


    "Doctor Ji, long time no see."


    They had just metst week.


    Ji Yu coldly nodded, acting as though she didn¡¯t know him well.


    Gu Qixiao wasn¡¯t bothered; he knew Ji Yu always treated him this way.


    "I didn¡¯t expect Doctor Ji to be so caring."


    "Not nearly as generous as President Gu," Ji Yu responded politely.

 Chapter 57 Barely a Good Person

    <h4>Chapter 57: Chapter 57 Barely a Good Person</h4>


    Ji Yu wasn¡¯t the kind of unreasonable person.


    Seeing Gu Qixiao make such an effort, her impression of him changed slightly. At the very least, he didn¡¯t seem as detestable anymore.


    "Sister Yu, look, Sweetie Lin has legs now!"


    Previously, this child had lost his parents and one of his legs in a car ident. Now, this moment was a different kind ofpleteness.


    Sweetie Lin¡¯s eyes sparkled. "Sister Yu, I¡¯m so happy."


    From now on, he could walk like a normal child.


    He eagerly tried to stand up but, unused to the new prosthetic, nearly fell to the ground.


    Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t mind Sweetie Lin¡¯s restlessness. After steadying him, he patiently instructed, "Even with legs, you can¡¯t be careless when walking. Otherwise, you¡¯ll make people worry, understand?"


    Sweetie Lin nodded obediently. "Thank you, Uncle."


    That "Uncle" nearly made Gu Qixiao lose hisposure.


    "Do I not look more like an older brother?" They called Ji Yu "Sister," but called him "Uncle." Did he really look so old?


    Ji Yu couldn¡¯t help but find it amusing. It was the first time she saw Gu Qixiao being this petty.


    "Sweetie Lin can call him whatever he likes. Uncle or Brother, it¡¯s all the same."


    Sweetie Lin scratched his head shyly. "Alright then."


    Sometimes, he really didn¡¯t understand why adults were so fixated on forms of address.


    Gu Qixiao sighed helplessly. Seeing the smile on Ji Yu¡¯s face, he couldn¡¯t stop himself from smiling as well.


    The children¡¯s joy was infectious and filled him with a sense of aplishment he had never felt before.


    After spending some time with the children, Gu Qixiao noticed how well-behaved they all were. "Did you used toe here often?"


    Ji Yu hadn¡¯t visited frequently before, as work kept her busy. This time, it was Granny Li¡¯s illness that made her stay for so long.


    "What does that have to do with you, President Gu?"


    Her dislike for Gu Qixiao had faded a bit. At the very least, he seemed to barely qualify as a decent person.


    "Doctor Ji, I have my own reasons for this. I believe you know what I¡¯m getting at."


    His gaze toward Ji Yu was filled with hope.


    But Ji Yu felt her temper re. So all his maneuvering was ultimately about Song Xuan?


    "President Gu, you¡¯re really invested in this, aren¡¯t you?"


    Gu Qixiao frowned slightly but refrained from expressing any irritation. "I¡¯m simply taking responsibility for my life."


    If Song Xuan¡¯s issue wasn¡¯t resolved, he wouldn¡¯t have peace for the rest of his days.


    But Ji Yu misunderstood, thinking he just wanted his little paramour to look better. "I didn¡¯t realize President Gu had such high aspirations."


    Without realizing it, the two of them had walked to the music room. Though the equipment here was basic, all the essentials were present.


    "Did you set this up?"


    "Yeah." Ji Yu hoped that even in such an environment, the children wouldn¡¯t give up on the things they loved in their hearts.


    "You always have to give children something they like. They can¡¯t stay here forever."


    She firmly believed that these children would eventually find their own paths.


    For a moment, Gu Qixiao felt as if Ji Yu was glowing.


    Meanwhile, Ji Yu didn¡¯t pay his thoughts any mind, instead teaching a child to y the piano. Before long, the tune was finished.


    Yet, Gu Qixiao couldn¡¯t help but want to hear more.


    "You seem to be very good at this."


    "Not really. I was interested in it for a while before." Ji Yu wasn¡¯t particrly skilled, though.


    "Sister Yu is amazing at everything," Little Xiu said, tilting her head to praise her.


    Ji Yu pinched Little Xiu¡¯s cheek. "You¡¯re such a sweet talker. Alright, the song¡¯s done. Go have lunch now."


    She could tell Gu Qixiao had more to say.


    Little Xiu obediently ran off with her friends to eat.


    Gu Qixiao lingered by Ji Yu¡¯s side, wanting to get a sense of her day-to-day self.


    "Doctor Ji doesn¡¯t seem to have that big of a temper usually."


    Thatment nearly made Ji Yu roll her eyes. In the end, she held back. "What does that have to do with you? Besides, wouldn¡¯t my bad temper be because of how excessive you all were?"


    If they had even a shred of decency, things wouldn¡¯t have escted so much.


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t say more, but her furrowed brow betrayed how strongly she felt about the matter.


    "We were in the wrong before, but Xuanxuan already knows she was wrong. She definitely won¡¯t go to another hospital for surgery again. I hope you can give her another chance."


    If not, he feared he¡¯d be driven mad.


    Ji Yu raised an eyebrow, utterly unconvinced. "A person¡¯s character is shaped as they grow up. It¡¯s impossible for one incident to change that."


    As the saying goes, a leopard doesn¡¯t change its spots. Isn¡¯t that the truth?


    Her judgments of people were generally urate. Song Xuan was sure to stir up trouble again in the future.


    "I never said I wouldn¡¯t help. Convince her first, and we¡¯ll see. I prefer coborative efforts."


    Ji Yu never intended to make things difficult for Song Xuan.


    "Really?" Gu Qixiao seemed to grasp a glimmer of hope.


    Unfortunately, Ji Yu was already done entertaining him.


    Carrying her lunch, she headed straight to Granny Li¡¯s room.


    This was the first time Gu Qixiao had met Granny Li.


    Her figure looked increasingly frail, and her frequent coughing sounded worse. "Yu, why are you bringing me lunch again? I can manage on my own."


    She still tried to remain self-sufficient, though she could barely hold her chopsticks, let alone pick up her meal.


    Ji Yu held back tears as she set the meal on the table. "It¡¯s a rare chance for me to be home. You should make the most of bossing me around."


    She worried that Granny Li might overthink things and didn¡¯t dare mention her worsening condition.


    But it soon became clear to Ji Yu that Granny Li had already stopped reacting emotionally to such concerns.


    Or rather, her mental state had begun to deteriorate.


    "Granny, eat a little more. Today¡¯s meal is really hearty."


    Yet despite the sumptuous meal, Granny Li could only manage a few spoonfuls of porridge before setting it aside.


    "You don¡¯t need to keep bringing food for this old woman. It¡¯s too wasteful."


    Her mind was still preupied with frugality.


    This only made Shen Qingqing¡¯s heart ache even more.


    Looking at the frail old woman before her, she felt an unbearable sadness.


    "By the way, Yu, who is this young man? He¡¯s been standing here for a while. I don¡¯t seem to recognize him?"


    She mistook Gu Qixiao for one of the children she had cared for before.


    But after thinking for a moment, she still couldn¡¯t recall who he was.


    "Granny, you don¡¯t need to mind him."


    Ji Yu had no interest in addressing anything rted to Gu Qixiao.


    She helped Granny Li to sit on the bed and patiently wiped her mouth.

 Chapter 58 He is not close to me

    <h4>Chapter 58: Chapter 58 He is not close to me</h4>


    Granny Li smiled, "You¡¯ve always been like this, girl. This young man knows you, doesn¡¯t he?"


    But Ji Yu didn¡¯t want to answer that question.


    "Granny, please don¡¯t ask anymore. You need good rest."


    She didn¡¯t want to see Granny Li continue to worry herself.


    Granny Li¡¯s body was bing more frail, and she fell asleep very quickly.


    Just a second ago, she had been chatting with Ji Yu, but the next moment, she was already asleep.


    Ji Yu carefully closed the door and silently led Gu Qixiao out of Granny Li¡¯s room.


    "Why not take her to the hospital?" Gu Qixiao was curious about this.


    But Ji Yu understood Granny Li¡¯s thoughts well, "A condition with no cure is only torture for someone already at the end of their life."


    So Granny had chosen to face it calmly and forego treatment.


    "You don¡¯t need to wonder why she doesn¡¯t go to the hospital, or why no one is taking care of her. These are all her own choices."


    One¡¯s choices are never something to regret.


    But Ji Yu¡¯s heart ached for Granny Li.


    This time, Gu Qixiao got to witness it. So Ji Yu had this gentle side too¡ªwhen she interacted with the elderly and children, it seemed like all her sharp edges retracted.


    "I didn¡¯t expect you to be so patient with the elderly and kids."


    But Ji Yu didn¡¯t think this was anything worth praising. "They are very important to me. How could I bring my bad moods to them?"


    She had a kind heart for the kids and held a feeling of gratitude toward the elderly.


    Watching the gentleness in Ji Yu¡¯s eyes, Gu Qixiao couldn¡¯t help but feel his own heart soften, and his view of her unexpectedly began to change.


    "I thought you¡¯d always be quick-tempered, but it seems you¡¯re only like that when things frustrate you."


    Ji Yu rolled her eyes. "Any normal person would be. And besides, don¡¯t you think your previous demands were a bit excessive? You all practically treat me, a doctor, as some kind of miracle worker."


    Such matters were, of course, their own responsibility.


    Hearing this, Gu Qixiao looked a bit embarrassed, as if resigned to the matter.


    "I¡¯m sorry," he finally apologized.


    In that instant, Ji Yu suddenly felt that he wasn¡¯t as unbearable as before.


    "If you had apologized sooner, wouldn¡¯t this whole ordeal have been avoided? But as for this matter, I still need to think it over."


    She had said this before, and now it required careful consideration.


    Having glimpsed a glimmer of hope, Gu Qixiao was determined not to let it slip away.


    The entire afternoon, he put in earnest effort in front of Ji Yu.


    Ji Yu could only sigh at the situation. "You really don¡¯t need to go to such lengths."


    And anyway, knowing it was all for Song Xuan, Ji Yu couldn¡¯t derive any enjoyment from it.


    It even felt like a thorn stuck in her throat.


    But Gu Qixiao, unaware of Ji Yu¡¯s feelings, simply thought that his sincerity would eventually reach her.


    The nearby children pressed their faces against the window, watching the two adults bustling around, curious about what was going on between the "big kids."


    "I know! The two of them are in love," Sweetie Lin dered with utmost confidence, her face beaming with pride.


    But Xiu adamantly disagreed, "Absolutely not! Sister Yu doesn¡¯t like Uncle Gu."


    The two began to argue over this.


    Each presented their own reasoning, and for a while, there was no clear winner.


    Meanwhile, Ji Yu¡¯s expression grew awkward, nearly enough to make her want to dig a hole to hide in.


    "Kids say the darnedest things," she mumbled, the only exnation she could offer.


    Gu Qixiao cleared his throat, equally surprised by theirment that Ji Yu didn¡¯t like him.


    But judging by Ji Yu¡¯s expression, she did seem quite distressed.


    And considering Ji Yu had a husband, maybe there really wasn¡¯t much else to think about.


    "Don¡¯t worry, Doctor Ji, I won¡¯t overthink it."


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t respond, instead grabbing Sweetie Lin, "Sweetie Lin, tell me, who taught you about people dating?"


    Sweetie Lin scrunched up her little face. "They say it that way on TV."


    Looks like they¡¯d need to watch less TV in the future.


    "Sister Yu, you can¡¯t stop us from watching TV! We only watch a little to learn stuff."


    But if all they were watching were shows about domineering CEOs falling in love, what could they possibly learn?


    Ji Yu couldn¡¯t help but feel a headache forming. Pinching Sweetie Lin¡¯s cheek, she said, "You really know everything, don¡¯t you?"


    Still, Ji Yu wasn¡¯t in a hurry. She remained patient with them.


    "Alright, no more pairing me up with your Uncle Gu in the future. Go y now."


    Gu Qixiao gave Ji Yu a conflicted look.


    He couldn¡¯t understand why Ji Yu wanted to create such a distance between them.


    As far as he remembered, Ji Yu should have been set on him before.


    "What? Are you nning to stand there forever?"


    Ji Yu noticed he hadn¡¯t moved and assumed he had something to say.


    But Gu Qixiao was hesitating on how to bring it up.


    "If you don¡¯t leave, I¡¯m not going to care about you anymore. Don¡¯t think donating money gives you the right to boss me around."


    She wasn¡¯t about to indulge Gu Qixiao.


    Gu Qixiao sighed helplessly. "That¡¯s not what I meant. I¡¯m just curious why you¡¯re so intent on drawing a line between us."


    Ji Yu raised an eyebrow, as if not understanding why he would even ask. "Isn¡¯t it obvious? You have your life and your lover, I have mine. It has nothing to do with you."


    Hearing the word "lover" from Ji Yu again, Gu Qixiao couldn¡¯t hold back any longer. He took a step forward. "What are you talking about? When did I have a lover?"


    He grabbed Ji Yu¡¯s wrist tightly, determined to get to the bottom of this.


    But Ji Yu seemed indifferent to the situation. "You can¡¯t just deny it after doing something. Having a lover isn¡¯t a big deal. I never said anything about it."


    After all, their marriage was already over, and there was no point in revisiting these matters.


    "I didn¡¯t even say anything bad about your lover, and you¡¯re already this worked up. Won¡¯t you lose your mindter on?"


    She didn¡¯t like speaking ill of others, but Song Xuan truly left a bad impression.


    Just as Gu Qixiao was about to reply, they heard the orphanage director calling Ji Yu¡¯s name from not far away.


    "Xiao Yu,e quickly!"


    Ji Yu caught the trembling voice of the director and knew that something must have happened. Without sparing Gu Qixiao another thought, she hurried over.


    "Director, what¡¯s wrong?" Ji Yu anxiously asked, worried something serious had urred.


    The director looked at Ji Yu, tears streaming down her face. "Granny Li¡¯s condition isn¡¯t good; the doctor is already here."


    It could happen at any moment now.


    Ji Yu couldn¡¯t believe it.


    Just this afternoon, everything seemed fine. How did things turn so dire all of a sudden?


    "Go and see her, Xiao Yu. Granny Li has been calling your name. It¡¯s best if you go."


    Though she had already prepared herself for this eventuality.


    Ji Yu had never thought it woulde so quickly.


    The weight of the situation felt unbearable in her chest. Even as she stepped into Granny Li¡¯s room, her heart grew heavier.

 Chapter 59: Granny Li Passes Away

    <h4>Chapter 59: Chapter 59: Granny Li Passes Away</h4>


    "Yu is here..." Granny Li¡¯s mind was already unclear, and she looked as if she was holding on to her veryst breath.


    Ji Yu¡¯s heart was a storm of emotions, unsure of how to define her feelings, only knowing that the situation before her made her heart clench tightly.


    "I¡¯m here."


    She held Granny Li¡¯s hand, hoping she could encourage her to hold on just a little longer.


    But Granny Li had already reached her final moments. Even if she harbored a desire to live, there was no chance left for her.


    Granny Li gazed at Ji Yu with eyes full of tenderness, saying, "You¡¯ve always been so strong-willed since you were little. At least now, you finally have someone to rely on."


    Her memory had already blurred long ago.


    Looking at Ji Yu, she seemed to see the same child from years ago.


    She gently stroked Ji Yu¡¯s hair, though her hands barely had any strength left.


    "Granny, I¡¯m no longer the little child I used to be. I can take care of myself now. I can even take care of you. Can¡¯t you hold on just a little longer?"


    This time, Ji Yu couldn¡¯t hold back any longer, and tears slid down her cheeks.


    It was the first time Gu Qixiao had seen Ji Yu cry.


    In such an atmosphere, he had no idea what he could do to alleviate Ji Yu¡¯s sorrow.


    "Yu, if you¡¯re living well, then I can rest assured. You need to live a good life with this young man. He seems to care about you a lot. You two must take good care of each other."


    Clearly, Granny Li mistook Gu Qixiao for Ji Yu¡¯s husband, urging them to live a good life together.


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t speak. She stubbornly clung to Granny Li¡¯s hand, as if doing so could keep Granny Li with her.


    "I will take good care of Yu," Gu Qixiao suddenly said, surprising everyone.


    They all knew Gu Qixiao¡¯s identity but never thought there could be any connection between the two.


    Even Ji Yu was stunned by his response. "You don¡¯t have to..."


    Before she could finish, Gu Qixiao had already grabbed her hand, looking as serious as ever. "I will take good care of Yu, Granny Li. You can rest easy."


    Granny Li finally broke into a smile.


    Her face seemed to regain a touch of color, but everyone knew that such vitality was merely a sign of terminal lucidity, not actual recovery.


    Ji Yu¡¯s heart ached even more deeply. Though she could see that Gu Qixiao was trying to help, she didn¡¯t resist his firm grip this time.


    "Seeing you two live well gives this old woman peace of mind. I¡¯ve always worried that Yu, being so strong-willed, might not find someone who understands her warmth and her struggles in life. Now that you¡¯re here, I feel reassured."


    Granny Li continued to smile, as if she saw herself in the days when she was younger and full of vitality.


    Ji Yu¡¯s tears flowed uncontrobly as she watched Granny Li. Her heart felt as if it was pierced, the pain impossible to disentangle from her soul.


    "Why are you crying like this, child? Granny won¡¯t need to endure this pain anymore. Isn¡¯t that a good thing?"


    Even at herst moments, Granny Li remembered the unbearable pain of her illness.


    If she could simply pass away like this, it seemed like a form of release.


    But those who are dying may seek release, while those left living find it impossible to let go.


    Ji Yu understood this truth, but now that the burden was hers to bear, it felt impossible to find sce in it.


    "I won¡¯t be able to walk alongside you anymore, but take the time to see, to see more of the world..."


    Her speech was bing difficult, and she began to cough violently.


    Her expression turned strained with pain. Her once-kind face was now gaunt from the torture of illness, while even the light in her eyes slowly dimmed.


    Ji Yu was at aplete loss before this heartbreaking scene.


    Gu Qixiao, kneeling beside Ji Yu, suddenly said, "Granny Li, don¡¯t worry. I will take good care of Yu and the child. They will have a life filled with happiness."


    After saying this, even Gu Qixiao was momentarily stunned by his own words.


    But upon closer thought, it seemed emotions had brought him to this point. Even if difort lingered in his heart, this was all he could do.


    When he turned to look at Ji Yu, there was a helplessness in his gaze. But Ji Yu no longer had the bandwidth to notice him.


    Granny Li¡¯s smile was brighter than ever this time, though it froze on her face forever.


    Ji Yu¡¯s sobs were uncontroble as she instinctively leaned into the embrace of the person beside her.


    Gu Qixiao felt Ji Yu¡¯s tears soak into his shirt as he patientlyforted her, "Granny Li has gone to a ce she wanted to be. She won¡¯t be tormented by pain anymore."


    But Ji Yu still couldn¡¯t let go¡ªshe couldn¡¯t bear to part from the woman who had cared for her so deeply.


    The feeling was akin to cutting away a piece of her own heart.


    "Granny never had the chance to enjoy life. To get sick like this toward the end¡ªdoes Heaven just refuse to let honest people live well?"


    Her words, between sobs, revealed how deeply she felt the unfairness of Granny Li¡¯s fate.


    Ji Yu had been pondering this even before, but now, the weight of these thoughts overwhelmed her.


    Why must there be people who face such cruel circumstances?


    It seemed this entire life had deprived Granny Li of true happiness.


    "Foolish child, Granny Li was happiest when she saw you before she passed. She truly loved you most."


    They all knew how much Granny Li loved and cared for Ji Yu.


    The director of the orphanage tried to lighten the heavy atmosphere with soothing words. "Don¡¯t let this grief consume you, Ji Yu. Granny Li wouldn¡¯t want to see you so sad. You know how much pain she endured recently, but..."


    She didn¡¯t finish her sentence.


    But how could Ji Yu not understand?


    "If I had known that Granny was enduring such pain because of me, maybe I shouldn¡¯t have stayed here all the time."


    The thought weighed heavily on Ji Yu¡¯s heart.


    Her attention turned to the suffering Granny Li had endured, and she couldn¡¯t help but feel guilty and disturbed by it.


    Yet no one ced me on Ji Yu.


    "What are you saying, child? Granny Li felt nothing but joy when you were here. Yesterday, she even said that seeing you made her pain seem less unbearable."


    Those words made Ji Yu¡¯s tears flow anew.


    Her chest felt as though it was being crushed under a heavy stone.

 Chapter 60: Protection

    <h4>Chapter 60: Chapter 60: Protection</h4>


    Ji Yu had been troubled by the matter, and even Gu Qixiao could see it.


    After leaving Granny Li¡¯s room, Gu Qixiao wanted tofort Ji Yu.


    "No need. This has nothing to do with President Gu. You should leave as soon as possible."


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t want to inconvenience anyone today.


    As for the things Gu Qixiao had said earlier, she treated them as if she hadn¡¯t heard a word.


    "Why do you have to act so indifferent? If you¡¯re feeling ufortable, you should say it out loud."


    He looked at Ji Yu, hoping she would exin herself.


    "But I don¡¯t want to discuss this matter with a stranger. Please don¡¯t make things difficult for me, President Gu."


    Calling him a stranger stung Gu Qixiao.


    Still, noticing her distress, he didn¡¯t take it to heart.


    "I¡¯lle and see Granny Li off too."


    A kind person like her deserved it.


    Even though Gu Qixiao had only met Granny Li twice, he could feel how genuinely kind she was.


    Ji Yu watched Gu Qixiao walk away, then turned back into the room where the doctor had already prepared Granny Li¡¯s remains.


    "Keeping the body here isn¡¯t ideal, especially with so many children around. What does Miss Ji think?"


    "Did Granny Li leave any instructions beforehand?" Ji Yu knew Granny Li wouldn¡¯t have overlooked this detail.


    Sure enough, the doctor remembered Granny Li¡¯s words from before, "Granny Li wanted to be cremated immediately, but we were concerned about the emotions of you family members."


    Ji Yu looked at the body covered in white cloth and finally managed a faint smile. "We will respect Granny Li¡¯s wishes."


    She knew Granny Li wanted to see them smiling as they bid her farewell.


    When Granny Li was taken away, the orphanage was solemnly quiet, as if even the children sensed the sorrow.


    Xiu looked at Ji Yu and couldn¡¯t help but ask, "Sister Yu, where is Granny Li being taken?"


    In their hearts, they were unsettled and wanted to see Granny Li.


    But Ji Yu stopped them in their tracks, "Granny Li has gone to a ce far away for rest. Soon, new aunties and sisters wille to take care of you."


    She knew these things shouldn¡¯t be shared with the children.


    However, Sweetie Lin, who had been quiet, suddenly spoke up, "I know, Granny Li has died."


    She stared directly at Ji Yu, as if seeking confirmation of her words.


    It wasn¡¯t until then that Ji Yu remembered this child had experienced loss before, so she already understood the reality of life and death.


    "Yes, but Granny Li was very happy."


    She didn¡¯t want the children to dwell too much on the matter. Granny Li had clearly desired for everything to remain calm.


    The children nodded. "We know Granny Li has to leave. We just want to say goodbye to her."


    They waved obediently, as if bidding her farewell.


    Ji Yu turned away, keeping her tears hidden from the children.


    "Alright, since you¡¯ve said your goodbyes to Granny Li, go y with the orphanage director now. I still have a few things to take care of."


    She had to go with them.


    Granny Li¡¯s arrangements were simple and low-key, yet every detail was tinged with sorrow.


    The next meeting was at Granny Li¡¯s funeral.


    Gu Qixiao spotted Ji Yu in a ck dress but found himself at a loss for words tofort her.


    "Thank you, President Gu, foring to pay respects to Granny Li."


    Ji Yu quietly expressed her gratitude, but her gaze reflected a numbness toward the situation.


    Gu Qixiao sighed softly, "The dead can¡¯te back to life. You have to take care of yourself."


    He could understand Ji Yu¡¯s emotions, but being overly stubborn was not healthy.


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t say a word, simply standing there, as if unwilling to let go.


    It wasn¡¯t until noon that Ji Yu joined the group and returned home.


    Sitting beside her, Gu Qixiao noticed her pale and weary face. "Granny Li hoped you¡¯d be happy and wouldn¡¯t continue being sad. She¡¯d feel hurt knowing this."


    "Yes, I understand." Ji Yu acknowledged.


    But some things couldn¡¯t just be forgotten.


    After going home, Ji Yu remained in low spirits.


    Even when Feng Qinqin invited Ji Yu out, she was promptly refused.


    "Yuyu, you can¡¯t keep being like this. It¡¯s as if you¡¯re apletely different person after what happened."


    Ji Yu shook her head, "It¡¯s just hard to cheer up. Granny Li¡¯s passing was so unexpected."


    It also served as a reminder of life¡¯s unpredictability.


    The people around us could leave at any moment.


    Even if one clings to someone dearly, there¡¯s no way to prevent them from departing.


    "Yuyu, you really can¡¯t keep going like this. If you¡¯re upset, vent it out. Don¡¯t bottle everything up inside."


    Ji Yu understood this reasoning, but nothing seemed to spark her interest.


    "Let¡¯s talk about itter."


    "Your attitude is worrying those who care about you. Uncle Ji and Auntie Ji asked me toe check on you specifically because they¡¯re afraid you might do something foolish." Feng Qinqin knew her good friend well.


    Mentioning her family made Ji Yu hesitate.


    She realized perhaps her behavior had been too despondenttely.


    "Yuyu, your face is so pale. Even though our beautiful girl still looks good sickly, I much prefer your usual self."


    Feng Qinqin tried her best to cheer Ji Yu up, and Ji Yu felt it.


    Ji Yu managed a helpless smile. "I¡¯m not as bad as you all think. It¡¯s just that this incident really hit me hard."


    Those who pass have already gone; the living must move forward.


    No matter how much Ji Yu held onto the sadness, she couldn¡¯t remain like this forever.


    When the two went downstairs, the Ji family couple and Ji Yuanzhou were visibly relieved.


    "When you got home, you looked as if you¡¯d lost the will to live. You really scared me and your dad."


    The couple cared deeply for Ji Yu, reminding her that she had more beyond her immediate sorrow.


    "Mom, I¡¯m fine. Look, I¡¯m perfectly okay."


    Ji Yu had worked through many thoughts, and now at least, she wouldn¡¯t do anything reckless.


    "It¡¯s good to see you¡¯re thinking straight. Since Qinqin is here today, let¡¯s all have a meal together."


    It had been a while since they¡¯de together like this.


    Ji Yu could sense that everyone was carefully tending to her emotions. To keep being so downcast would be unfair to their efforts.


    "Don¡¯t worry. From now on, I won¡¯t behave like this anymore. You don¡¯t have to worry about me being unhappy."


    She made a solemn promise, assuring them.


    Only then did they feel at ease.


    "Yu, whatever happens, you can always talk to your family. We¡¯ll always be here for you."


    Ji Yuanzhou added awkwardly.

 Chapter 61 Soft Grinding and Hard Soaking

    <h4>Chapter 61: Chapter 61 Soft Grinding and Hard Soaking</h4>


    Ji Yu naturally knew they all meant well, so she nodded to show she understood.


    She had almost fully recovered on her end.


    But Gu Qixiao was already getting fed up with Song Xuan¡¯s incessant drama.


    "President Gu, Miss Song wants us to contact Doctor Ji as soon as possible."


    This was just one of those things that showed how difficult she could be.


    Gu Qixiao¡¯s expression was unreadable, as if this matter had little effect on him.


    "Tell her it¡¯s not possible right now."


    He knew this incident had deeply impacted Ji Yu, so he hadn¡¯t brought up the surgery with her yet.


    Every time he thought of Ji Yu¡¯s swollen, tearful eyes that day, he simply couldn¡¯t bring himself to broach the subject.


    But Song Xuan, of course, couldn¡¯t wait any longer.


    Even when he was in the office, she managed totch onto him.


    "Xiao, do you find my face disgusting? Do you think it¡¯s humiliating for me toe to you looking like this?"


    This wasn¡¯t the real issue.


    No one around Gu Qixiao would dare say such things.


    But her attitude was making Gu Qixiao feel mentally exhausted.


    "I already said I¡¯d arrange it soon. Why won¡¯t you listen to me?"


    He looked at Song Xuan, his tone faintly tinged with irritation.


    Song Xuan knew her tactics weren¡¯t the best approach, but seeing Gu Qixiao hold back his temper only made her feel smug.


    To her, getting Gu Qixiao to endure her without snapping was already a victory.


    "Xiao, I just don¡¯t want to keep living with this face. People look at me with judgmental eyes¡ªI feel like I can¡¯t go on anymore."


    Her eyes welled up with tears, making her seem pitiful.


    But Gu Qixiao was already mentally worn down by situations like this due to PTSD.


    "What exactly do you want?"


    He had promised to arrange it, so why did Song Xuan act as if he were lying?


    "I want to have a good talk with you. Ever since this project started, you¡¯ve be so indifferent about this. Don¡¯t tell me, Xiao, you¡¯ve fallen for someone else?"


    She didn¡¯t know who Gu Qixiao had been with recently, but something seemed off to her.


    She stared directly at Gu Qixiao, trying to gauge his reaction.


    When he heard her usation, Ji Yu¡¯s image instantly shed in Gu Qixiao¡¯s mind.


    "There¡¯s no such thing. This time it was just a charity event for the orphanage, nothing romantic."


    His tone was already exasperated, but he understood Song Xuan¡¯s temperament too well. "If you keep this up, I won¡¯t be able to set up an appointment with Ji Yu. She agreeing to the surgery is already a very rare opportunity."


    But to Song Xuan, Ji Yu was just some lowly doctor. What was so impressive about her?


    "Xiao, why don¡¯t youe with me to ask again? If things really don¡¯t work out, we can figure it out then."


    She could no longer stand being stuck with this face for even a second.


    Gu Qixiao knew Ji Yu must still be focusing on repairing her emotional state. She wouldn¡¯t take on this task right now.


    But he also knew that if he didn¡¯t go, Song Xuan would keep pestering him. Reluctantly, he took her to look around, hoping she¡¯d get the hint and stop pursuing this.


    "Sister Yu hasn¡¯t been here for a week. She said she needed some proper rest."


    This didn¡¯t surprise Gu Qixiao. He was well aware of how much Granny Li¡¯s passing had affected Ji Yu.


    "Why? Don¡¯t tell me you guys are lying to us?" Song Xuan didn¡¯t believe it and assumed Ji Yu was deliberately avoiding her.


    Tian found her reaction baffling. "What¡¯s that supposed to mean? Why would Sister Yu avoid you? And besides, Sister Yu never nned to take your surgery anyway."


    Everyone knew how obnoxious Song Xuan was, and as a result, even Gu Qixiao wasn¡¯t looked upon favorably by them.


    Gu Qixiao rubbed his temples. "Song Xuan, since she¡¯s not here, let¡¯s leave already. What¡¯s the point of all this drama?"


    But Song Xuan stubbornly believed Ji Yu was hiding from her.


    "Xiao, don¡¯t you feel sick looking at my face? I know everyone¡¯s just trying tofort me, but I just want a normal face!"


    All she wanted was a normal face¡ªwas that too much to ask?


    "Xiao, my brother always told me he¡¯d make sure my face got fixed..."


    "Enough." Gu Qixiao felt a splitting headache whenever anything regarding her brother was mentioned.


    He regretted ever getting involved with this mess.


    But now that she was in his care, he couldn¡¯t just abandon her.


    "Your face can definitely be repaired. After waiting all these years, can¡¯t you handle a few more days?"


    What really worried him was whether Ji Yu was willing to do it.


    Just as Song Xuan seemed ready to escte things further, a cold voice interrupted, "Here at Congxin, we don¡¯t wee unreasonable and disruptive customers. If this continues, I¡¯ll have to call security."


    Nobody had noticed when Ji Yu had arrived at the doorway.


    She looked at their behavior, her expression distraught with distaste.


    Seeing hope for her face again, Song Xuan instantly softened her stance. "Doctor Ji, if you¡¯d arrived earlier, this wouldn¡¯t have happened. You must¡¯ve already decided to take my surgery, right?"


    She couldn¡¯t believe Ji Yu would turn down the money.


    Her earlier performance was nothing short of calcted restraint.


    Ji Yu sneered coldly, "We¡¯ll talk about the surgeryter. Do you have an appointment today?"


    Her simple question immediately forced Song Xuan to swallow back whatever she¡¯d intended to argue.


    It left her in an awkward limbo, unsure what to say.


    "If you don¡¯t have an appointment, then please leave. I don¡¯t repeat myself."


    They only served clients with reservations.


    Their presence was just wasting others¡¯ time.


    "What¡¯s that supposed to mean?" Song Xuan red at Ji Yu, jealousy shing in her eyes. All she wanted was to look like Ji Yu¡ªwhy was it so difficult?


    "Exactly what I said. Congxin has always operated this way. Don¡¯t tell me you didn¡¯t know?"


    Plenty of wealthy stars and businessmen had sought treatments here before; Ji Yu no longer felt any pressure from dealing with them.


    "You¡¯re just refusing to treat me, aren¡¯t you? Do you want my Xiao to keep chasing you down?"


    Ji Yu rolled her eyes. "Seems like you¡¯ve got quite the imagination. Why don¡¯t you spin around and take another guess? If you¡¯re so afraid of losing Xiao, then why don¡¯t you take him home and stop dragging me into this?"


    It really was that simple.


    But Song Xuan couldn¡¯t let go of the scars on her face.


    The way she looked at Ji Yu was filled with loathing, but when her gaze shifted to Gu Qixiao, that resentment disappeared.


    "Xiao, I¡¯m sorry. I know I got a bit worked up. I don¡¯t even know what¡¯s wrong with metely¡ªevery time I look at my face, I can¡¯t control myself."


    Anyone whose face had been disfigured like hers would be emotional, which, she figured, was normal.


    Gu Qixiao expressed a semnce of understanding for her outburst.


    "Doctor Ji, I sincerely apologize for this. We¡¯lle back another time with an appointment."


    He knew Ji Yu must still be emotionally fragile right now.


    Ji Yu reluctantly epted his apology. "Now that you understand, please leave. I¡¯d rather not make this uglier than it already is."

 Chapter 62: Anxious

    <h4>Chapter 62: Chapter 62: Anxious</h4>


    After the two left, Song Xuan still seemed very anxious.


    Unfortunately, this time nobody was going to indulge her anymore.


    "Song Xuan, I told you before, I¡¯ll help you resolve the issue with your face as soon as I can. You don¡¯t trust me?"


    Song Xuan paused briefly, "It¡¯s not that I don¡¯t trust Xiao. It¡¯s just the scars on my face have been affecting my emotions. I really don¡¯t know what to do."


    But truthfully, she had never beenposed about this.


    "I¡¯m sorry, Xiao. It¡¯s just that I like you too much. I know with the scars on my face, you definitely won¡¯t marry me."


    She looked pitifully at Gu Qixiao, hoping he would understand the underlying meaning.


    But Gu Qixiao was already tired of exining, so he decided not to bother anymore, "Get some rest."


    He didn¡¯t want to talk about the topic of marriage any longer.


    Speaking of marriage, it made Gu Qixiao think about the promise he made in front of Granny Li before.


    "Why..."


    Even he didn¡¯t know why he said that at the time.


    Meanwhile, Ji Yu hadposed herself and took the initiative to meet with Gu Qixiao.


    "I can agree to what you mentioned before, but you have to cooperate properly. If there¡¯s any other funny business, don¡¯t me me forpletely backing out."


    She was just going to perform a surgery, not participate in some pce intrigue.


    Gu Qixiao was overjoyed and naturally agreed to her conditions a hundred thousand times over.


    "Alright, as long as you can do this, I¡¯ll definitely find a way to show my gratitude."


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t respond, once again realizing that while he seemed caring, this care was meant for a mistress, not anything more.


    Thinking about this idea brought a twinge of negativity to Ji Yu¡¯s heart.


    "Now that everything is clear, let¡¯s meet again before the surgery. In the meantime, I hope you keep your family member in check."


    She didn¡¯t feel the need to say anything more to Gu Qixiao; after all, indulging in such emotions wasn¡¯t helpful.


    However, Gu Qixiao felt inexplicably puzzled, "If I¡¯m inviting you for dinner, why not stay and eat before you leave?"


    But Ji Yu directly shook her head, "Sorry, I don¡¯t feel like it. I have another appointment. Excuse me."


    As she left, she was also thinking about it in her heart: once Song Xuan¡¯s face recovered, they¡¯d probably go straight to marriage.


    Thinking of this, Ji Yu couldn¡¯t help but curl her lips into a faint cold smile.


    "Well, they do seem like a match."


    No matter, they could stop seeing each other after that.


    "Yuyu, I¡¯m over here! Why are you walking so slow?" Feng Qinqin spotted Ji Yu and quickly rushed over.


    Seeing Ji Yu¡¯s somewhat frosty expression, she grew curious about what was going on.


    "What¡¯s wrong? Did someone bully you earlier?"


    That didn¡¯t seem right.


    Thinking about Ji Yu¡¯s personality, Feng Qinqin felt this situation didn¡¯t seem simple.


    But Ji Yu immediately changed the subject, "Nothing. Didn¡¯t you say you wanted to see the concert? We¡¯re going to bete soon."


    She had also been dragged along reluctantly.


    During this time, Ji Yu had managed to make herself somewhat familiar in the entertainment circle, but she still had to wear a mask when entering venues. Who knows what kind of unpleasant things people would say if they recognized her?


    Fate or coincidence, Lu Xingchen happened to be there as well.


    "Yu?" He recognized Ji Yu, even with the mask, at a nce.


    Ji Yu was a bit surprised, "Xingchen, you¡¯re here too?"


    But thinking about it, celebrities in the entertainment industry knowing each other wasn¡¯t so strange.


    She didn¡¯t have much curiosity about this event, though Feng Qinqin had already started shipping the CP.


    "Emperor Lu, why don¡¯t you sit here next to me? I¡¯ll go over there to snap some photos."


    Her excuse came naturally, leaving Ji Yu a bit exasperated.


    She also caught Lu Xingchen¡¯s grateful nce.


    At this point, Feng Qinqin was totally convinced¨Cthis guy truly liked their Yuyu.


    She gave Ji Yu an encouraging gesture, quickly leaving to avoid being a third wheel.


    "I didn¡¯t expect you¡¯d like rock music."


    "I¡¯m here apanying Qinqin." Honestly, Ji Yu was familiar with all these people.


    Whenever she spotted a good-looking face, she couldn¡¯t help but take a second look.


    Throughout the event, Ji Yu never dared make any big movements, maintaining a respectable distance from Lu Xingchen, praying they wouldn¡¯t be caught on camera.


    But this time, Ji Yu¡¯s prayers came to nothing. The two of them were still photographed and posted online.


    [Oh my god, this is so perfect. Watching a concert together? That¡¯s too smooth.]


    [Ladies, hand me a bottle of instant heart-relief pills. My CP is so sweet it¡¯s killing me.]


    [Take the person above away! All heart-relief pills are sold out today.]


    The CP fans, despite it being the holidays, quickly pushed the topic onto the trending list.


    Gu Qixiao stared grimly at the trending topic on his phone, thinking about Ji Yu¡¯s "appointment" from earlier, his eyes practically lit on fire.


    "President Gu, is there something wrong?"


    Assistant Li was puzzled, unsure why Gu Qixiao suddenly erupted in anger.


    Was it a message that crossed some line?


    Imagining this possibility, Assistant Li decided to act as inconspicuous as possible.


    But this time, he couldn¡¯t avoid it.


    "Look into the band and Lu Xingchen for me."


    He wanted to know exactly how important this "appointment" was, so much so that even dinner couldn¡¯tpete.


    At this time, Ji Yu was still unaware she¡¯d been misunderstood, insteadining to Feng Qinqin about herck of loyalty earlier.


    "How could you leave me alone with Xingchen? If the paparazzi caught us, I¡¯d be sshed across the headlines again."


    Feng Qinqin looked at Ji Yu sheepishly.


    Ji Yu instantly had a bad feeling.


    Sure enough, after opening her phone, their video was already trending.


    For a moment, Ji Yu really wanted to ask those paparazzi how they could even identify her through such blurry footage.


    "Yuyu, this is actually a good thing. Look, ever since you distanced yourself from your trashy ex-husband, all the men you¡¯ve met are quality stocks. Lu Xingchen is so handsome!"


    Thinking about Lu Xingchen¡¯s smile, her eyes sparkled brightly.


    "If you end up getting together with Lu Xingchen, the two of you would definitely have gorgeous kids."


    In just moments, Feng Qinqin had already nned out their future family.


    Ji Yu rubbed her forehead helplessly, "It¡¯s only because you¡¯re my best friend. Otherwise, I¡¯d make sure to teach you a lesson today."


    This kind of talk couldn¡¯t be thrown around so casually.


    Besides, Lu Xingchen¡¯s feelings were a bit obvious; the best n was to avoid dragging him into this.


    "You don¡¯t know how lucky you are, Yuyu. If I had your luck in love, I¡¯d be married on the spot!"


    Ji Yu was well aware of Feng Qinqin¡¯s obsession with romance. Seeing her enthusiasm for handsome faces had not lessened, Ji Yu was temporarily reassured.


    "Yuyu, why don¡¯t we go to a bar tonight? Let me set you up with someone amazing!"


    Her eyes sparkled as she looked at Ji Yu.


    But Ji Yu had trouble on her te already. Why go to a bar?


    "Forget it. Thest time you set me up was enough to keep me mortified for life."


    Thinking back to that time, Ji Yu couldn¡¯t help but feel second-hand embarrassment.

 Chapter 63 Treatment

    <h4>Chapter 63: Chapter 63 Treatment</h4>


    Ji Yu simply found an excuse to slip away.


    In any case, what happened before absolutely wouldn¡¯t happen again.


    Of course, she didn¡¯t forget about Song Xuan¡¯s matter.


    This time, however, Ji Yu had notified Gu Qixiao in advance.


    "If Miss Song keeps making trouble, it might affect my mood. If I decide not to do the surgery, don¡¯t me me."


    She had long since gauged the situation with Song Xuan¡¯s face.


    If the surgery wasn¡¯t done soon, recovery might be difficultter.


    Gu Qixiao felt a faint sense of displeasure but held it in for the time being. "You went to see a concert yesterday?"


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t expect him to change the topic so quickly. "I apanied Qinqin to see a concert. Do you have a problem with that?"


    With Feng Qinqin?


    He found it hard to believe, but he also knew Ji Yu might be in a bad mood, so he didn¡¯t press further.


    "About Granny Li¡¯s matter..."


    "I know you said those things to get me to help at the time, so there¡¯s no need to exin," Ji Yu said indifferently.


    She had never entertained other thoughts about it.


    But this time, Gu Qixiao¡¯s intentions weren¡¯t the same.


    He opened his mouth several times but didn¡¯t know how to exin.


    "Since there¡¯s nothing else, then bring Miss Song tomorrow. I¡¯ll only give you this one chance. If you miss it, I won¡¯t bother with the matter again."


    She had many other patients to save and couldn¡¯t afford to waste too much time on Song Xuan.


    Learning about this matter, Song Xuan was ted and pulled Gu Qixiao aside to celebrate. "Xiao, my face is finally going to recover! Aren¡¯t you happy?"


    She could finally stand openly by Gu Qixiao¡¯s side.


    But Gu Qixiao¡¯s mind wasn¡¯t on that. He was still thinking about what he had said to Granny Li that day.


    And to this day, he didn¡¯t regret saying those words.


    "Rest well. Talk after your face has recovered. And don¡¯t offend Doctor Ji in the future¡ªher skills are indeed remarkable."


    Song Xuan, consumed by her happiness, didn¡¯t pay much attention to this.


    "I know, Xiao. I¡¯ll sort everything out afterward. But you must promise to stay by my side during the surgery."


    Actually, she didn¡¯t need to ask¡ªGu Qixiao had already decided to stay by her side.


    Thinking about how it would be, an unsettling irritation gripped his heart.


    "Alright, just rest well tonight. I have other matters to take care of."


    He then turned and left,pletely ignoring Song Xuan.


    Song Xuan wasn¡¯t worried though. She knew that once her face recovered, Gu Qixiao would surelye back to her.


    It seemed her good mood even carried into the next day when she met Ji Yu. Her attitude was unexpectedly cordial.


    "I¡¯ll have to trouble Doctor Ji," she said with a smile, as though she¡¯d truly changed.


    Ji Yu remained indifferent, not caring whether her behavior was genuine or an act. "Your surgery will be a major operation and might take a while. Please be prepared."


    She only did what she had to do.


    But Song Xuan felt Ji Yu was putting on airs. Otherwise, why would she talk in such a detached tone?


    "Xiao, why is Doctor Ji so cold? Is she still holding onto grudges from before?"


    Gu Qixiao knew Ji Yu wasn¡¯t like that at all and naturally sided with her. "Perhaps she¡¯s just eager to get the surgery done. Your operation might dy her quite a bit."


    She was pregnant after all. Performing such aplex procedure wouldn¡¯t be easy.


    With that thought, Gu Qixiao looked at Ji Yu with a hint of pity, silently nning how to make it up to herter.


    "Xiao, are you close with Doctor Ji? Why are you always standing up for her?"


    Song Xuan dug her nails into her palm, forcing herself to maintain aposed smile. Yet jealousy churned within her¡ªthe intense urge to tear Ji Yu¡¯s face apart boiled under the surface.


    "Doctor Ji isn¡¯t as vtile as you imagine. Let¡¯s not overthink this. Just focus on preparing for the surgery."


    Unexpectedly, during this surgery, Song Xuan cooperated very well¡ªperhaps frightened by what had happened before.


    Ji Yu was relieved to have an easier time.


    After finishing the operation, she ced the cleaned silicone imnts in front of Song Xuan. "These two things are what ruined your face. I hope you¡¯ll think twice before doing any simr procedures in the future."


    She didn¡¯t insist on telling her what to do.


    Yet she still found all this exhausting.


    Song Xuan looked at the silicone imnts with hatred in her eyes. "Someday, I¡¯ll make that doctor pay."


    She shouldn¡¯t have trusted that doctor so carelessly before.


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t respond but instead called Gu Qixiao aside. "You¡¯d better arrange someone to properly care for Miss Song afterwards. At least make sure nothing goes wrong this month; otherwise, even I won¡¯t be able to help."


    She handed him a list of precautions and didn¡¯t bother saying more, only hoping the matter would be settled soon.


    But Gu Qixiao worried about her health. "Are you okay?"


    He was aware of her pregnancy and felt uneasy.


    "I¡¯m fine." Ji Yu¡¯s gaze toward Gu Qixiao became somewhatplicated, puzzled at his sudden concern.


    At least she didn¡¯t find him as off-putting as before.


    "There¡¯s no need for this. Just take good care of Miss Song."


    His deep attachment to this little lover meant they¡¯d part ways with no further debts between them.


    But Gu Qixiao felt differently¡ªhe was distracted and restless even upon returning to the hospital room.


    "Xiao, did Doctor Ji say something to you? Why do you seem preupied?"


    Song Xuan observed his expression and immediately suspected that his rtionship with Ji Yu was anything but a normal doctor-patient dynamic.


    "Nothing. From now on, be careful and follow instructions. Avoid any injuries." Gu Qixiao shook off his thoughts, intending to find a way topensate Ji Yuter.


    But Song Xuan perceived his behavior as guilt.


    If there truly weren¡¯t any deeper feelings involved, why would he feel guilty?


    "Okay, Xiao. You¡¯ll always take care of me, won¡¯t you?"


    The bandages on her face hid her expression from Gu Qixiao.


    But Gu Qixiao knew he couldn¡¯t look after Song Xuan forever.


    "I treat you as my little sister. I¡¯ll take care of you properly until you get married."


    Just then, Assistant Li brought in the caregiver Gu Qixiao had arranged, so he decided to head back to the office and deal with work, ignoring whatever reaction Song Xuan might have.


    He didn¡¯t notice the malice brewing in Song Xuan¡¯s gaze.


    "Assistant Li, I don¡¯t want a caregiver¡ªI only want Xiao to take care of me."


    She stubbornly refused the caregiver and angrily knocked over the nearby medication.


    Themotion startled everyone nearby.


    "Miss Song, you surely understand that President Gu has work to attend to; he can¡¯t always stay by your side," Assistant Li said evenly.

 Chapter 64 Splashing Water

    <h4>Chapter 64: Chapter 64 Sshing Water</h4>


    Assistant Li felt helpless. Knowing that Miss Song had a bad temper, he could only temporarily resort to such a tactic to cate her.


    But Song Xuan refused to let it go.


    "Go tell Xiao. He¡¯ll definitelye and stay with me."


    Unfortunately, this time Assistant Li¡¯s call resulted in only one answer¡ªGu Qixiao was in a meeting.


    This made Song Xuan once again realize that maybe Gu Qixiao wasn¡¯t as fond of her as she had imagined.


    Otherwise, how could he disappear at such a time?


    Just thinking about it felt like a knife slicing through her heart.


    "In that case, let Doctor Ji take care of me. I only trust her."


    Assistant Li, feeling helpless and not wanting to see her continue causing a scene, immediately sought out Ji Yu to find a way to handle the matter.


    Ji Yu looked at Assistant Li with a slightly speechless expression. "I¡¯ve said before that your Miss Song should behave herself and stop doing inexplicable things. Can¡¯t she understand that?"


    And now she wants me to take care of her¡ªisn¡¯t that what the caregivers are for?


    "Doctor Ji, this situation might be a bit different. Could you please take a quick look? We absolutely won¡¯t waste your valuable time."


    But Ji Yu couldn¡¯t even bother to go nce at the situation.


    "Tian, go check on Song Xuan¡¯s situation. If she continues to cause trouble, just arrange for her discharge."


    After finishing her sentence, she decisively hung up, clearly unwilling to listen to the mor any longer.


    "Is there anything else, Assistant Li?"


    Assistant Li was at a loss for words.


    Assistant Li felt like jumping off a building.


    He thought bitterly to himself that both sides were hard to offend, and today he might as well getpletely crushed here.


    "Perhaps you could reconsider? We¡¯re willing to pay extra."


    "Assistant Li, your President Gu¡¯s time is money, but a doctor¡¯s time isn¡¯t infinitely avable either." Ji Yu understood this clearly.


    Only, while Gu Qixiao¡¯s time may be money, her time was life.


    "There¡¯s no need to say anything else. I advise you to return quickly and not test my patience."


    Her patience for this matter hadpletely run dry.


    And she hoped the issue could be resolved smoothly.


    But things didn¡¯t seem as simple as Ji Yu had hoped.


    Song Xuan endlessly found things to make a fuss about.


    Even when Gu Qixiao arrived, she still looked aggrieved.


    "Xiao, they¡¯re all bullying me. I trust Doctor Ji¡¯s skills¡ªcan¡¯t you have her take care of me, please?"


    She appeared genuinely concerned that these people wouldn¡¯t be capable.


    But Gu Qixiao was already thoroughly annoyed by her constant drama. "Stop causing trouble already. Didn¡¯t we agree to cooperate with the new arrangements? What are you doing?"


    He had bent over backwards before, doing so many things to secure this opportunity for Song Xuan, only for her to now squander it without any appreciation.


    Song Xuan clenched her teeth. "But Xiao, only Doctor Ji understands my situation¡ªhow could I not go to her?"


    She was determined to give Ji Yu a hard time.


    Ji Yu did appear at the door to the hospital room but didn¡¯t seem at all inclined to be bossed around.


    "You all need to discuss things properly. If you want to stay in the hospital, behave. If not, you¡¯re wee to leave anytime."


    She didn¡¯t want someone like Song Xuan in the ward either.


    Who knew if there¡¯d be more trouble toe?


    "If you keep this up, you¡¯ll only disturb the other patients. This is a hospital, not a ce for random acts of madness."


    If not for Gu Qixiao¡¯s involvement, Ji Yu would¡¯ve already had them evicted.


    Gu Qixiao understood this, but the people around him still refused to relent.


    "Doctor Ji, I just want you to be responsible for my face¡ªis that too much to ask? Are you scared?"


    Song Xuan was determined not to let Ji Yu escape so easily.


    "If you don¡¯t trust me, you¡¯re wee to leave right now."


    Ji Yu was exasperated and uninterested in further conversation, but some people simply couldn¡¯t take a hint.


    "Doctor Ji, it¡¯s because I trust you so much that I feel this way. We¡¯ve spent so much money on the surgery¡ªyou wouldn¡¯t just ignore us, would you?"


    She firmly believed the cost of the surgery must have skyrocketed.


    "I haven¡¯t charged you a single extra penny. This matter is me repaying a favor, but I¡¯m absolutely not someone to be bullied."


    Ji Yu had her own stance on the matter. Seeing Song Xuan cause endless trouble had long drained her patience.


    And with Gu Qixiao present, there was no way she would let this be pinned on her.


    "I¡¯ve told you¡ªI don¡¯t like dealing with people like you. I¡¯m just a doctor. Now, could you leave the hospital?"


    She didn¡¯t understand Song Xuan¡¯s behavior.


    But Song Xuan had long regarded Ji Yu as an enemy.


    "If you don¡¯t leave, I won¡¯t bother with your follow-up treatments. What to do next is up to you to figure out."


    Her words had been spoken¡ªnow it was up to them to understand the message.


    Seeing Ji Yu about to leave, Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t care about Song Xuan anymore and hurriedly chased after her to apologize.


    "I¡¯m sorry. This time, I handled things poorly. I¡¯ll take Song Xuan back as soon as possible."


    He knew Ji Yu hadn¡¯t been in a good moodtely, yet now she had to deal with this mess. His eyes revealed a trace of tenderness.


    But Ji Yu wasn¡¯t moved by his gaze. "Go take care of Song Xuan. I don¡¯t need you meddling here."


    Whatever connection they had was already spoken for¡ªthere was no need to keep pondering over it.


    Ji Yu coldly and indifferently looked at Gu Qixiao, as if he was a stranger.


    It left Gu Qixiao at a loss for words.


    "Do you really hate me that much?" He had always believed they were at least friends.


    But the current Ji Yu was far too indifferent,pletely unlike the person from the orphanage.


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t deliberately say anything, but her detached attitude made Gu Qixiao ufortable.


    "President Gu, I¡¯m just a small-time doctor. Why must you make things hard for me? The surgery¡¯s done, the reasons have been exined¡ªwhy continue to entangle this further?"


    Was her stance not clear enough?


    Besides, didn¡¯t he already say their lives wouldn¡¯t intersect?


    "President Gu, please do the charitable thing and don¡¯t drag me into your matters anymore. I need proper rest."


    She had a child to consider, but Gu Qixiao was far from being a qualified father.


    "Alright." Gu Qixiao felt a surge of irritation, but he couldn¡¯t pinpoint its source.


    Clearly, he had doubted Ji Yu¡¯s intentions all along, yet now he couldn¡¯t find satisfaction in the situation.


    "President Gu, thank you."


    She expressed thanks for this, but Gu Qixiao felt a distinctck of joy.


    Returning to the ward and looking at the restless Song Xuan, his heart brimmed with frustration.


    "Xuanxuan, starting tomorrow, you¡¯ll rest at home."

 Chapter 65: Conflict

    <h4>Chapter 65: Chapter 65: Conflict</h4>


    Ji Yu had already deeply influenced their affairs.


    Song Xuan, on the other hand, held immense hatred toward her previous cosmetic surgeon. "Xiao, can you help me deal with that stic surgeon? If it weren¡¯t for him, how could my face end up like this?"


    Tears gleamed in her eyes, as though this incident had dealt her a tremendous blow.


    "Calm down first. This might not be the way you think. Some materials are things you inherently cannot use. I¡¯ll thoroughly investigate the matter."


    Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t like investigating people on a whim, but since Song Xuan was this furious, he couldn¡¯t avoid putting on a show.


    "Xiao, I don¡¯t want to be discharged so quickly. My face hasn¡¯t healed yet. What if something goes wrongter?"


    Though she didn¡¯t like Ji Yu, she knew Ji Yu was at leastpetent. For now, Ji Yu was the only one who could treat her face.


    Gu Qixiao, irked by her constant pestering, understood she was right. "Then you must promise there won¡¯t be any more actions like this after."


    He was frustrated by the things Song Xuan did but was powerless to do anything about them.


    This matter had always been his responsibility.


    Seeing Gu Qixiao agree, Song Xuan broke into a joyful smile.


    The following time was rtively calm, with no further outbursts of temper.


    Ji Yu, on Gu Qixiao¡¯s behalf, didn¡¯t t-out order them to leave.


    "Doctor Ji, my face seems to hurt a bit. Could you check if I need to change my medication?"


    It wasn¡¯t yet the time for a change; Ji Yu certainly wasn¡¯t about to adjust her treatment on a whim. "In your condition, you¡¯ll improve over time. But if we remove the gauze on your face too soon, it could lead to permanent disfigurement. Are you willing to take that risk?"


    This statement directly hit Song Xuan¡¯s sore spot.


    She cared most about her face¡ªhow could she casually take risks with it?


    "That¡¯s not what I meant."


    Seeing Ji Yu¡¯s attitude, she felt increasingly frustrated.


    "Doctor Ji, once my face is fully repaired, can I continue doing projects?"


    She wanted to transform herself into a beauty like Ji Yu.


    But Ji Yu was somewhat incredulous. "You¡¯re not afraid of ending up like before? I¡¯ve already told you to be cautious with projects. Many things aren¡¯t suitable for you."


    After experiencing such incidents, daring to continue was a bold move indeed.


    "Can I have you as the lead surgeon this time? I just want to look better. You understand, don¡¯t you? Xiao and I are bound to get married; I want to look prettier to match him better."


    So, they were already nning marriage.


    Ji Yu¡¯s hand holding the medication paused briefly before lowering her eyes to conceal her turbulent thoughts.


    "Someone who truly loves you wouldn¡¯t care about the way your face looks." For him, the chance of this being true was minimal.


    Recalling what Gu Qixiao had done for Song Xuan before, Ji Yu kept her thoughts to herself.


    "Although I trust Xiao will treat me well, I still want to look prettier."


    Her eyes carried an expectation of a blissful marriage, as though their union was inevitable.


    Ji Yu¡¯s emotions wereplex¡ªit was unclear what kind of feelings stirred within her. She should have been indifferent to these matters.


    "Do as you wish, but I won¡¯t perform stic surgery for you. What I do is repair work."


    She only hoped to return people suffering from issues to a state of normalcy. Cosmetic surgery? They had to decide for themselves.


    Of course, Ji Yu didn¡¯t support such practices; she had made this clear in the past. If they chose not to listen, it was their problem.


    "Doctor Ji, you must agree that Xiao treats me well, right?"


    "Mm." Ji Yu¡¯s hands continued moving as she finally wrapped up her work.


    When she left, she didn¡¯t nce at Song Xuan¡¯s face, as if the matter had no impact on her at all.


    However, she ended up bumping into Gu Qixiao at the doorway on her way out.


    Seeing Ji Yu, Gu Qixiao¡¯s gaze carried a hint of amusement. "Doctor Ji, thank you for everything during this time."


    He worried about Ji Yu being overly fatigued and had prepared some snacks for her.


    But recalling his past scummy behavior, Ji Yu had lost her appetite for anything he offered long ago.


    "Sorry, I don¡¯t like sweets."


    Saying this, she turned away without hesitation and left directly.


    Gu Qixiao¡¯s hand, holding the container of snacks, hung frozen in the air, his expression showing tant disappointment.


    Not far away, Song Xuan saw everything unfold. Her jealousy burned, almost impossible to suppress.


    "Xiao, why are you still standing at the door?"


    She was intent on figuring out what made Ji Yu so capable of pulling Gu Qixiao¡¯s attention.


    Gu Qixiao turned his gaze back, cing the snack box on the table. But he didn¡¯t ultimately offer those snacks to Song Xuan.


    "Xiao, weren¡¯t these for me?"


    "Doctor Ji has taken such good care of you; these are a gift of thanks for her." He replied without raising his head.


    But Song Xuan easily noticed Gu Qixiao¡¯s strange expression just now.


    Something had definitely transpired between them¡ªhow could there be such a change otherwise?


    "Xiao, I feel like eating something sweet. Could you give these to me?"


    Sweetly coaxing him, she wanted Gu Qixiao to hand over the snacks.


    But Gu Qixiao frowned and rejected her. "These are for Doctor Ji. If you want snacks, there are more in the food container."


    Yet what she wanted wasn¡¯t merely snacks.


    Although Song Xuan didn¡¯t say much outright, she had already deeply ingrained this matter in her heart.


    Her dislike for Ji Yu grew even stronger; she now considered Ji Yu a conniving seductress vying for Gu Qixiao¡¯s attention.


    The next time she encountered Ji Yu, her demeanor was overtly arrogant. "Doctor Ji, this hospital bed of yours seems problematic. I woke up with arm pain from sleeping on itst night. Can you change it for me?"


    This was the first time Ji Yu had heard such a petty request.


    "Our hospital doesn¡¯t provide such services. I already warned youst time when you made a fuss. If you stir up trouble again, you¡¯ll have to leave; we don¡¯t wee such patients here."


    There should be at least a minimum level of respect.


    "Performing surgery on you doesn¡¯t obligate me to anything. The surgery fees you pay are what I deserve, and if you want to create problems, then just go home. That way, you won¡¯t feel uneasy seeing me."


    Ji Yu acted as though she only had her best interests in mind, yet Song Xuan felt the underlying sarcasm in her words.


    "Doctor Ji, this isn¡¯t appropriate. Even if you are interested in Xiao, you shouldn¡¯t speak to me like this."


    Looking pitifully at Ji Yu, Song Xuan saw through their interactions as if she already knew everything between them.


    Ji Yu, though, couldn¡¯t help but recall what Gu Qixiao had previously said to Granny Li. Knowing his insincerity, why did she keep dwelling on it?


    "I don¡¯t like Gu Qixiao, nor will there ever be anything between us. The person you cherish might not mean the same to others."

 Chapter 66: Tossing and Turning

    <h4>Chapter 66: Chapter 66: Tossing and Turning</h4>


    "Sister Yu, there¡¯s a patient over there who needs you for surgery."


    Tian rushed over in a hurry, indicating that the situation over there must be serious.


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t bother to give additional instructions about the matters on this side and hastily left together with Tian.


    However, this surgery left Ji Yu feeling ufortable. She didn¡¯t know if it was because of the child, but whenever she saw such bloody scenes, she couldn¡¯t help feeling nauseous.


    "Sister Yu, you don¡¯t seem to be in a good state today. Do you want to take another break?"


    In the eyes of those around her, Ji Yu was seen as being pitiful, as though being forced by Gu Qixiao and the others to perform surgeries.


    Now, they hoped Ji Yu could take the time to rest peacefully.


    But Ji Yu understood the situation well. Lately, Song Xuan had been purposely causing trouble. If she wasn¡¯t in the hospital, it would only escte further.


    "You don¡¯t need to worry about me. I¡¯ve already told them¡ªthey¡¯d better leave as soon as possible."


    The way they handled things was absolutely appalling.


    When Ji Yu saw Gu Qixiao again, she straightforwardly expressed her thoughts, "I don¡¯t want Song Xuan staying in the hospital causing trouble any longer. My time is precious."


    She had already said this many times before: if they couldn¡¯t behave, they should get out. But it seemed like they hadn¡¯t understood the meaning behind her words at all.


    Gu Qixiao looked a little awkward. He had thought Ji Yu was in a better mood and they could finally talk calmly. He hadn¡¯t expected such a situation to arise.


    "I understand what you mean."


    There was no way he would allow Song Xuan to continue making a scene here.


    Seeing how decisively Gu Qixiao agreed, Ji Yu also rxed. "You¡¯re not as unreasonable as I thought. I hope you won¡¯t let things like this happen again in the future."


    She wasn¡¯t in a rush to push them to leave but hoped they¡¯d have some self-awareness.


    Gu Qixiao wanted to have a proper conversation with Ji Yu, but then he noticed Ji Yuanzhou not far away, waiting for Ji Yu. The way he waited looked almost as though he were waiting for his girlfriend to finish work.


    For some reason, a wave of irritation rose in Gu Qixiao¡¯s heart, and his gaze grew impatient.


    "Hey, big brother, how do you have time to pick me up today?"


    Ji Yu was surprised that Ji Yuanzhou hade.


    "You little brat. Have you been too busytely? Mom and Dad are waiting for you toe home for dinner. Tomorrow is Dad¡¯s birthday¡ªdon¡¯t tell me you¡¯ve forgotten."


    For a brief moment, Ji Yu¡¯s expression became guilty.


    Ji Yuanzhou pretended not to notice, understanding that Ji Yu likely had too much on her te to remember this.


    "Come home for dinner today, and tomorrow, don¡¯t you dare forget."


    "Don¡¯t worry, big brother. I¡¯ll pick out a perfect gift." She knew she should take the time to go home as well.


    Lately, Ji Yu had been caught up in her own thoughts. She needed to step out of them and see the people around her.


    When she returned home, the Ji family parents were visibly delighted, showering Ji Yu with tenderness. For a moment, Ji Yu forgot her recent troubles.


    "Yu, we know you¡¯ve been busytely, but no matter how busy you are, you have to take care of yourself. Just look at how thin your face has gotten."


    Lately, Ji Yu had no appetite for anything, which led to this situation.


    But since she had already decided to keep the child, she was prepared for pregnancy-rted symptoms.


    "Mom, Dad, I¡¯ll visit you more often. My work isn¡¯t as exhausting as you think."


    She just needed some time to process everything.


    Recently, Ji Yu had poured too much energy into dealing with Song Xuan. It was time topletely resolve that problem as soon as possible.


    What Ji Yu didn¡¯t know was that Song Xuan had already found out that the doctor who previously performed surgery was actually Ji Yu¡¯s senior. After learning this, her expression turned sour.


    "It must be Ji Yu. Yes, it¡¯s her!"


    She had already decided in her heart that this was Ji Yu¡¯s doing and wasn¡¯t nning to tell anyone about it.


    Song Xuan didn¡¯t sleep at all that night, turning this over in her mind. Her hatred for Ji Yu had reached its peak.


    Even when she saw Gu Qixiao, she carried a palpable resentment, angry that he wasn¡¯t taking her side.


    "Xiao, why has it been so long since you visited me? Do you not like me anymore?"


    Gu Qixiao sighed helplessly. He knew there was nothing wrong with Song Xuan¡¯s face. "Why do you insist on dwelling on these things? Focus on your recovery."


    He had no intention of indulging her further. Now, he only wanted to resolve this issue quickly.


    He was waiting for Ji Yu.


    But Ji Yu always treated him coldly¡ªso much so that she looked at her patients with more tenderness than she ever did at him.


    "Doctor Ji, can I have a word with you?"


    Ji Yu massaged her temples. Her delicate face carried a touch of frustration. "What exactly do you want to say? You promised to make Song Xuan leave."


    Yet Song Xuan was still here.


    The look Ji Yu gave Gu Qixiao carried a trace of reproach.


    Gu Qixiao knew exactly what Ji Yu was thinking.


    But what he wanted even more was to have a proper conversation with Ji Yu.


    "I¡¯m sorry. I don¡¯t know why Song Xuan is doing all this. I canpensate for the trouble she¡¯s caused you."


    As he spoke, he pulled out a bank card from his pocket.


    But Ji Yu didn¡¯t even spare it a nce. "Thanks for the kind gesture, but the money you¡¯ve already donated to the orphanage is more than enough. There¡¯s no need for extrapensation."


    Besides, this matter couldn¡¯t really be pinned on Gu Qixiao.


    Ji Yu understood this clearly and had no intention of holding it against him.


    "I know you¡¯re stuck in a difficult position. Since that¡¯s the case, there¡¯s no need for you to apologize. Just make sure to take Song Xuan away quickly."


    She made her stance perfectly clear.


    Gu Qixiao stared at Ji Yu¡¯s indifferent expression, unable to bring himself to truly walk away.


    He wanted to ask Ji Yu if what she had said before was still true but didn¡¯t even know how to begin.


    At that moment, Ji Yuanzhou arrived at the door. After waiting for Ji Yu for a long time outside, he decided toe in and see what was going on.


    "Yu, who is this?"


    "A patient¡¯s family member," Ji Yu said coldly, brushing past Gu Qixiao and walking toward Ji Yuanzhou as though eager to get away.


    Gu Qixiao¡¯s heart burned with dissatisfaction, though he maintained his polite demeanor on the surface. "And who is this?"


    "My brother." Ji Yu offered no further exnation, focusing on acting even closer to Ji Yuanzhou.


    This behavior left Gu Qixiao feeling an unbearable bitterness in his chest. He was certain that what he had once said to his mother-inw waspletely sincere.


    But Ji Yu acted as though she had forgotten every bit of it.


    "If Doctor Ji has a husband, then you should maintain some boundaries with other men."


    Watching Ji Yu hold Ji Yuanzhou¡¯s hand, his heart throbbed with jealousy, though he was careful not to let it show.


    Ji Yu raised an eyebrow, entirely unimpressed. "My husband¡¯s not a good man. Whoever I¡¯m with, he probably couldn¡¯t care less."


    Besides, that marriage was something that had happened ages ago; there was no need to revisit it.

 Chapter 67: No Good Stuff

    <h4>Chapter 67: Chapter 67: No Good Stuff</h4>


    Gu Qixiao paused for a moment, unsure whether to feel happy or to say something else.


    However, seeing Ji Yu being so close to Ji Yuanzhou, he couldn¡¯t help but feel extremely displeased.


    "Is it possible you misunderstood something? Maybe you two can talk and clear up the misunderstanding."


    Ji Yu gave Gu Qixiao a half-smile, recalling their less-than-friendly conversations in the past. Suddenly, she found his current demeanor somewhat baffling.


    "No need to exin. I¡¯m crystal clear about what he¡¯s done. He¡¯s been quite generous to his little lover."


    Isn¡¯t he still guarding her right now?


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t spell it out directly, but the sarcasm in her eyes was impossible to hide.


    Gu Qixiao inwardly cursed that man for being so despicable, not even cherishing a wife like her. "Still, you should settle the matter of your marriage first before saying anything else, especially since you also have..."


    "Stop." She didn¡¯t want to hear anything about the child.


    Yet Ji Yu also had no intention of discussing this marriage further.


    "I just think, if you don¡¯t want this child, you don¡¯t have to keep it. After all, you said your husband is a scumbag..."


    Before he could finish, he was met with Ji Yu rolling her eyes. "Yes, you¡¯re absolutely right. He¡¯s a real scumbag. But this matter has nothing to do with you. We¡¯ve already divorced long ago."


    She didn¡¯t even know what to say to her ex-husband at this point. Recently, Gu Qixiao had been acting unusually foolish.


    Thankfully, she hadn¡¯t made this clear earlier, or things might have been even more awkward.


    Gu Qixiao was briefly stunned, his mind overwhelmed with the fact that Ji Yu was already divorced.


    "D-Divorced?" He sounded a little agitated, his voice even cracking slightly.


    He seemed genuinely shocked by this revtion.


    "What¡¯s wrong? Are you happy about my divorce?" Ji Yu looked at his now-upturned lips in exasperation, unsure what kind of performance this was supposed to be.


    But deep inside, Gu Qixiao couldn¡¯t contain his joy.


    He had been dwelling on this matter for a long time. Now that Ji Yu admitted it herself, there was no describing how he felt.


    "That¡¯s not what I meant. I just think it¡¯s a shame about the child."


    Ji Yu nced away from him. "Brother, let¡¯s go home."


    She didn¡¯t want to waste time on a fool like him.


    Gu Qixiao seemed momentarily frozen, clearly lost in some thoughts.


    Ji Yu pulled the still-stiff Ji Yuanzhou into the car. Judging by his expression, she figured he had just heard about the divorce and was thoroughly shocked.


    "Yu, are you pregnant?"


    After a long silence, Ji Yuanzhou finally regained his voice.


    The look in his eyes as he stared at Ji Yu was filled with curiosity, as if trying to understand how things hade to this.


    Ji Yu nodded. "I wasn¡¯t nning to hide it from you all. I just hadn¡¯t decided whether or not to keep the baby."


    Ji Yuanzhou didn¡¯t know how to express the emotions brewing within him, but after thinking it over, her pregnancy wasn¡¯t all that surprising.


    After all, it hadn¡¯t been that long since the divorce.


    "Yu, are you nning to keep this child?" He knew that Ji Yu wouldn¡¯t talk about it unless she had already made up her mind.


    "Yes, even if this child¡¯s timing isn¡¯t ideal, it¡¯s still a life. I can¡¯t just casually get rid of it."


    Ji Yu had thought about it for a long time. Now, she felt that since this child hade into her life, maybe it was destiny.


    On the way home, Ji Yuanzhou remained silent, appearing as if deeply affected.


    Even after they arrived home, he seemed to be grappling with the news.


    "Yu, what¡¯s wrong with your brother?"


    "Maybe he encountered something earlier and is still processing it," Ji Yu replied, unsure how to exin. In any case, now that the words were out, it was up to him toe around on his own.


    Ji Yuanzhou didn¡¯t know what to say about the situation.


    However, the way he looked at Ji Yu¡¯s belly became increasinglyplicated, to the point that even the Ji family parents noticed.


    "Yu, are you feeling unwell in any way?"


    Ji Yu shook her head. "No, it¡¯s nothing. I¡¯m just pregnant."


    Now that everything was out in the open, there was no need to hide it from her parents. As she spoke about it, a glimmer of light appeared in her eyes.


    To her, this child was like an angel.


    "What? Yu, you¡¯re pregnant?"


    The Ji family parents were equally shocked but quickly came to terms with it.


    "No wonder you¡¯ve seemed a little offtely. So it¡¯s this little one causing trouble. But don¡¯t worry about anything. If you want to keep the child, our family can provide for you."


    They were fully supportive of Ji Yu¡¯s decision.


    Even if this child didn¡¯t have a father, they would still shower it with love as a family.


    "Thank you for understanding, Mom and Dad." Ji Yu had been somewhat conflicted about breaking the news, worried her parents might have objections to the child.


    But seeing how easily they epted it brought her immense relief. She resolved to raise and educate the child well, without relying on any help from Gu Qixiao.


    The whole family was thrilled about the baby, but Ji Yuanzhou remained the exception, grappling with a storm ofplicated emotions regarding the little life.


    "Brother, it¡¯s Dad¡¯s birthday today. At least try to be happy."


    Ji Yu smiled at Ji Yuanzhou.


    Realizing that his expression might have been too grim, Ji Yuanzhou quickly came to his senses. Even Ji Yu and the others had noticed his peculiar reaction.


    "I¡¯m fine." Ji Yuanzhou finally managed a smile. Although he couldn¡¯t fully ept the situation yet, he chose to support Ji Yu regardless.


    "Yu, don¡¯t worry. I¡¯ll take good care of you and the child."


    The Ji family parents assumed he was speaking purely out of sibling affection, but Ji Yu knew better. She could see that Ji Yuanzhou had other feelings buried within.


    She wasn¡¯t sure what emotionsy behind his words.


    "Thank you, brother." But she knew their rtionship would always be one of siblings.


    She didn¡¯t say it outright, but her gaze conveyed everything.


    As for Gu Qixiao, Ji Yu had already started treating him like an ordinary person.


    Although she was still irritated by his earlier remark about not wanting the child.


    That night, she couldn¡¯t help but dwell on the matter.


    "Baby, even though your daddy doesn¡¯t know you¡¯re his child, what he said was really too much."


    She was furious about it but found herself powerless. Was she supposed to point at Gu Qixiao¡¯s head and dere, "This child is yours"?


    Ji Yu couldn¡¯t do that, nor would she.


    Unbeknownst to her, Gu Qixiao, after hearing her admission of their divorce, spent the entire night sleepless, agonizing over how to win back her favor the next time they met.

 Chapter 68 Favorability

    <h4>Chapter 68: Chapter 68 Favorability</h4>


    He was already quite sure that his feelings for Ji Yu were not innocent.


    He clutched his rapidly beating heart, unable to stop thinking about every moment he had spent with Ji Yu.


    In the end, he faced a cruel reality: Ji Yu didn¡¯t seem to have much affection for him.


    With this thought in mind, he didn¡¯t sleep a wink all night.


    By the time he arrived at thepany the next morning, dark circles were evident under his eyes.


    "President Gu, could it be that you didn¡¯t sleep wellst night because of Miss Song¡¯s situation?"


    Assistant Li was concerned about Gu Qixiao¡¯s condition, but also wanted to quickly resolve the issue with Song Xuan.


    "You take care of it. If she keeps causing trouble, just send her straight back home."


    He was already fed up with the matter. He had previously advised her to behave, to stop acting out, yet now her actions were growing increasingly outrageous.


    Assistant Li hesitated. "President Gu, someone of my insignificant status might not be able to make Miss Song listen to me."


    "If she refuses, then just send her home directly. Do I really need to teach you how to handle this?" Gu Qixiao was used to dealing with such situations.


    After all, Song Xuan had disyed this kind of attitude more than once before, and he was nearly driven mad by it.


    With a sigh, Assistant Li had no choice but to give it a try, though the result was predictable.


    "I want to see Xiao! Who do you think you are to talk to me like this?"


    Though insulted, Assistant Li dared not show his anger, fully aware of the high regard Song Xuan held in Gu Qixiao¡¯s heart.


    So, he simply recorded a video and sent it to Gu Qixiao.


    Having no other choice, Gu Qixiao had toe in person to see what was happening.


    "Xiao, you finally came."


    The moment he appeared, Song Xuan tearfully clung to his arm, looking as though she had been gravely wronged.


    "Song Xuan, I¡¯ve told you many times¡ªAssistant Li is my personal assistant, not your servant. Why can¡¯t you understand this every time?"


    Seeing how Song Xuan treated Assistant Li, a trace of displeasure flickered in his heart.


    But Song Xuan showed no intention of exining herself. "Xiao, I know it must be Ji Yu who¡¯s responsible for what happened to my face. She¡¯s so malicious¡ªshe must want us to spend money at her hospital."


    She was utterly convinced of her own reasoning.


    Handing over the cosmetic surgeon¡¯s details to Gu Qixiao, she continued tearfully, "Xiao, this surgeon is Ji Yu¡¯s senior colleague. They must have had contact long before this."


    She poured out her grievances, her heart heavy with resentment.


    But Gu Qixiao couldn¡¯t wrap his head around her logic at all.


    "Didn¡¯t you go to that hospital on your own?"


    The beauty clinic was her choice¡ªhow could it possibly have anything to do with Ji Yu?


    "Besides, you should be very clear that Doctor Ji warned you earlier not to seek surgery from others. Did you listen to her?"


    No matter how he looked at it, he couldn¡¯t believe that Ji Yu had anything to do with this.


    After all, he already had a clear understanding of the previous events.


    The cosmetic clinic was Song Xuan¡¯s own decision, and now she was trying to put the me on Ji Yu. How could such a logic hold?


    "But they¡¯re colleagues! Why didn¡¯t Ji Yu tell me about this before? It¡¯s because she¡¯s guilty¡ªshe¡¯s hiding something! Xiao, don¡¯t you believe me?"


    Her hatred for Ji Yu ran deep, so there was no chance she¡¯d say anything favorable about her.


    Yet Gu Qixiao still didn¡¯t believe a word Song Xuan said.


    The atmosphere grew awkward.


    This only strengthened Song Xuan¡¯s belief that Gu Qixiao must secretly have feelings for Ji Yu. Otherwise, why would he say such things?


    "Xiao, are you falling for Ji Yu? How can you like someone like her? Is it just because she¡¯s prettier than me?"


    She had always been sensitive about her appearance.


    Seeing Gu Qixiao¡¯s reaction today only reinforced her conviction.


    "This has nothing to do with appearances."


    Even if Ji Yu¡¯s face were scarred, his feelings for her wouldn¡¯t change.


    Not to mention, he had never despised the scars on Song Xuan¡¯s face.


    "Song Xuan, you need to understand¡ªI only see you as a sister. The possibilities you¡¯re talking about simply don¡¯t exist."


    There was no need for anyparison between them.


    Looking at Song Xuan, his eyes were filled with helplessness but carried none of the affection she desired.


    At this moment, Song Xuan¡¯s patience had reached its limit.


    She couldn¡¯t ept that this had nothing to do with Ji Yu.


    "It must be Ji Yu¡¯s fault! That¡¯s why you¡¯re rejecting me, isn¡¯t it? Xiao, you weren¡¯t like this before."


    Despair filled her eyes.


    And even more, an overwhelming hatred toward Ji Yu.


    "I¡¯ve already told you¡ªthis has nothing to do with Doctor Ji. I never said I would marry you, not even from the beginning."


    He had exined this countless times, but Song Xuan never listened.


    Maybe she had clung to hope before, thinking it was because of her face. But now, that hope had shattered, leaving nothing but debris.


    She refused to believe the oue.


    She threw herself at Gu Qixiao, holding on tightly. "Xiao, you can¡¯t just abandon me like this!"


    She clung desperately to his hand, but Gu Qixiao only let out a defeated sigh. "I don¡¯t have those feelings for you. I¡¯ve made it clear before¡ªit¡¯s you who keeps holding on."


    Looking at her, Gu Qixiao¡¯s face showed only weariness and frustration, his heart having already grown numb to the situation.


    "Xiao, how can you do this to me? You *will* love me. We¡¯ve been together all this time¡ªyou *must* have feelings for me. You¡¯re just blinded by Ji Yu¡¯s beauty!"


    She had managed to cling to this reasoning¡ªit was herst excuse to hold on.


    "And didn¡¯t you once say you¡¯d take care of me? Have you forgotten that you owe me a life? My brother died saving you, Xiao!"


    At her words, Assistant Li couldn¡¯t help but mutter, "Even if your brother were alive, he wouldn¡¯t have been able to provide you with such a life."


    Over the years, the lifestyle she enjoyed was surely enough to repay that debt.


    Gu Qixiao never intended to abandon Song Xuan¡ªhe only ever saw her as a younger sister.


    "Song Xuan, you need to understand that the bond between us is purely sibling-like. What I owe your brother, I will repay, but it won¡¯t be through this kind of arrangement."


    He wasn¡¯t noble enough to sacrifice his own lifetime of happiness as repayment for a debt of gratitude.


    Gently wiping away her tears, he softly said, "Get some rest. Your face still needs recovery¡ªcrying too much might causeplications."


    But this tenderness was no more than the concern of an older brother.


    In this moment, Song Xuan¡¯s hatred swelled to its fullest.


    "Xiao, can¡¯t you learn to love me? You don¡¯t even have someone you like¡ªwhy can¡¯t we give it a try?"


    She lowered her expectations again and again, desperate only for Gu Qixiao to look her way.

 Chapter 69 Prayer

    <h4>Chapter 69: Chapter 69 Prayer</h4>


    She looked at Gu Qixiao with a pleading gaze, hoping he could forget about the past and stay by her side.


    But all Gu Qixiao gave her was resignation, "Song Xuan, feelings cannot be forced. I¡¯ve never disliked you for your looks, but I will never like you either."


    To him, Song Xuan would always be a responsibility, not a lover.


    He had lost interest in the current situation and only hoped that Song Xuan would wake up soon.


    "It¡¯s not because of looks? Then why are you so special to Ji Yu? Can you honestly say you don¡¯t have any feelings for her?"


    Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t answer this question, only giving Assistant Li a look.


    Understanding instantly, Assistant Li said, "Miss Song, you should rest. Being too emotional isn¡¯t good for your wound healing."


    Everyone treated her with politeness, but there wasn¡¯t a trace of love.


    At that moment, the emotions piled up in Song Xuan¡¯s heart eruptedpletely.


    Everyone seemed displeasing to her; she picked up a cup and hurled it at Assistant Li, and he narrowly dodged it, else his head would have been cut open today.


    He didn¡¯t dare linger any longer and could only let Song Xuan cool down on her own, "Miss Song, please call if you need anything."


    After saying this, he followed Gu Qixiao out of the room, thinking that he must at least protect his life first.


    They left hurriedly, leaving Song Xuan crying hysterically in the room.


    After getting in the car, Gu Qixiao remainedposed. He was clear about his own feelings, and at the very least, he couldn¡¯t let go of Ji Yu yet.


    "Ji Yu..."


    He recited Ji Yu¡¯s name, thinking of her words about being single.


    Since she was single, didn¡¯t he have the right to pursue her?


    "President Gu, are you heading back to thepany or...?"


    "Back to thepany. Leave the household matters to the nanny for now, and as for the hospital matters, have the caregiver handle them." His meaning was clear, and Assistant Li sighed in relief, knowing he didn¡¯t need to deal with Song Xuan¡¯s affairs anymore.


    But Assistant Li never imagined.


    Gu Qixiao was actually thinking of pursuing Ji Yu.


    With a somewhatplex expression, he stood holding a bouquet of roses at the entrance of the hospital, enduring countless nces from passersby.


    "Is Doctor Ji not here today?" Unable to withstand the gazes any longer, he approached the cleaningdy at the entrance for information.


    Thedy nced at Assistant Li in surprise, "Young man, you¡¯re looking for our Doctor Ji? I advise you to go back quickly. Have you seen the kind of people around her? You can¡¯tpete with them."


    Thedy was kind, and Assistant Li¡¯s smile almost faltered.


    "I¡¯m delivering for someone else." He could only extricate himself tactfully.


    "Oh, Doctor Ji is right behind you."


    Ji Yu looked at Assistant Li with some familiarity, "Are you here to see me for something?"


    Especially since he was holding roses, it might seem to others there was something between them.


    "President Gu asked me to deliver these, with a letter from him inside." Assistant Li was mortified but maintained a professional smile, hoping toplete this daunting task quickly.


    Ji Yu raised an eyebrow, a hint of confusion on her delicate face, "Your President Gu sent these?"


    For Gu Qixiao to send such things, something must be wrong with his head?


    Ji Yu was skeptical but also curious about what Gu Qixiao wanted from her.


    "Tell your President Gu I¡¯vepleted what I promised him before, and there¡¯s no need for anything else."


    She knew Gu Qixiao had no idea whose child she was carrying, but what he said yesterday still infuriated Ji Yu.


    Assistant Li was having a hard time holding it together, "Isn¡¯t it possible that our President Gu wants to pursue you?"


    He had never seen Gu Qixiao so attentive to anyone.


    His gaze swept over Ji Yu¡¯s face, and he suddenly understood why their President would fall for her. Such a beauty could easily confuse anyone, and no wonder Song Xuan felt so threatened.


    "Does everyone in yourpany like to joke around?"


    Ji Yu wasn¡¯t fond of such matters and didn¡¯t think Gu Qixiao harbored such feelings.


    "It¡¯s quite good that your President doesn¡¯t think I¡¯m scheming, let alone pursue me, because he doesn¡¯t have any feelings for me."


    If Gu Qixiao really had such intentions, he was remarkably discreet in not letting her, the person involved, notice.


    "You might have some misunderstandings, but our President really harbors no such feelings."


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t want to get caught up in these matters, "Since you said your President has such feelings, let him tell me in person. Take the flowers back."


    With that, Ji Yu turned to leave,pletely uninterested in dealing with these issues.


    Assistant Li was left holding the flowers, unsure of what to do, and could only return to exin the situation to Gu Qixiao.


    He thought Gu Qixiao would be quite angry, but to his surprise, Gu Qixiao calmly epted the criticism.


    "She¡¯s right; it does seem a bit insincere this way."


    Gu Qixiao epted the criticism.


    He also knew Ji Yu¡¯s temper could indeed be difficult at times.


    "I¡¯ll go myself tomorrow."


    He was prepared to pursue Ji Yu and naturally wouldn¡¯t use such simple tactics.


    Assistant Li was a bit confused, "President Gu, your sudden interest in Miss Ji might make her suspicious of your intentions."


    He noted that previously, Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t seem to show any liking.


    Not just Assistant Li, even Gu Qixiao wasn¡¯t sure when he started liking Ji Yu.


    It might have been when he saw Ji Yu teaching the kids to y piano at the orphanage...


    Recalling that scene, Gu Qixiao couldn¡¯t help but smile; it was a memory he would cherish forever.


    "You don¡¯t need to worry about this. I don¡¯t need to report who I pursue. Just remember to be courteous to Yu in the future."


    Assistant Li¡¯s mouth twitched, wondering if their President knew he had already be so familiar that he was calling Doctor Ji "Yu."


    Nevertheless, Gu Qixiao was quite calm, and the next day, he personally waited for Ji Yu downstairs at the hospital.


    Upon seeing Ji Yu, he even adjusted his attire deliberately.


    "Doctor Ji."


    Hearing him address her as Doctor Ji, Assistant Li suddenly felt enlightened. Indeed, their President would only dare to call her "Yu" in private; when meeting in person, he still addressed her as Doctor Ji.


    "What are you doing here?" Ji Yu questioned upon seeing him, feeling both puzzled and a bit resentful.


    She hadn¡¯t forgotten what he saidst time and didn¡¯t wish to deal with him now.


    "I came to see you, and I brought the flowers that I couldn¡¯t deliver yesterday. Since I¡¯m handing them in person today, you surely won¡¯t refuse, right?"

 Chapter 70: Beginning the Pursuit

    <h4>Chapter 70: Chapter 70: Beginning the Pursuit</h4>


    He handed the roses to Ji Yu, his demeanor as serious as if he were signing an important contract.


    Ji Yu¡¯s expression turnedplicated. "Are you really Gu Qixiao?"


    This abrupt change in attitude¡ªthere was definitely something fishy going on.


    Her gaze at Gu Qixiao carried suspicion.


    But Gu Qixiao remained sincere. "You told me you¡¯re single. That gives me the right to pursue you."


    "I have a child." Ji Yu was left speechless by his remark.


    After all, it hadn¡¯t been easy to keep this ex-husband in the dark for so long. Even fools deserve a chance to survive.


    "We can discuss the childter," Gu Qixiao acknowledged the child¡¯s existence but couldn¡¯t help feeling sorry for the child.


    Of course, his priority now was to pursue Ji Yu.


    Ji Yu just felt that there was something wrong with Gu Qixiao¡¯s head; otherwise, how could he say something like this?


    "Weren¡¯t you always speaking on behalf of my ex-husband? Why the sudden interest in being with me today?"


    Her gaze was tinged with doubt, but more than anything, she found the whole situation amusing.


    After all, the two of them indeed had a history that was tangled andplicated.


    But under the current circumstances, Ji Yu was absolutely not going to agree.


    "You¡¯d better go back to wherever you came from. Besides, there¡¯s someone still lying in that hospital bed¡ªyou should at least consider the matter."


    If this really became a thing, wouldn¡¯t everyone be annoyed?


    Ji Yu kept herposure, deciding not to dwell on the issue anymore.


    But Gu Qixiao, inexplicably stubborn, fixated on the topic. "If you won¡¯t ept me, at least give me a reason. I can change."


    He acted as though he were deeply passionate.


    "What reason? I¡¯m just cunning, and maybe I¡¯m not a good match for President Gu. Besides, the people around you are ratherplicated¡ªI don¡¯t want to get entangled with people like that."


    Ji Yu had made herself clear before and remembered Gu Qixiao¡¯s suspicions about her. She calmly rejected him again.


    "Don¡¯t waste your energy on me. I don¡¯t like people like you. And by the way, Song Xuan can already be discharged¡ªyou¡¯d better take her away quickly."


    If Song Xuan saw such a scene at the hospital, who knew how much of a fuss she¡¯d make?


    After finishing her piece, Ji Yu didn¡¯t even bother to look at the flowers and immediately turned to leave, showing how indifferent she was about the whole affair.


    But Gu Qixiao couldn¡¯t bring himself to be as carefree.


    "President Gu, maybe it¡¯s better to let this one go?"


    Assistant Li also found the matter unpromising. Their boss had performed so poorly before; it¡¯d be tough for him to rebound now.


    "Go pick up Song Xuan from the hospital."


    Gu Qixiao was helpless when it came to Song Xuan and wasn¡¯t nning to feed her unrealistic expectations either.


    This left Assistant Li in a tight spot, his gaze toward Gu Qixiao growing more aggrieved by the moment.


    "Miss Song might be upset if she doesn¡¯t see you."


    He was being tactful¡ªeveryone knew Song Xuan would go berserk if she didn¡¯t see Gu Qixiao.


    In fact, Song Xuan had already started losing it. After confirming that Gu Qixiao had feelings for Ji Yu, she had contacted some people to go after Ji Yu. That way, no one would ever take her Xiao away from her again.


    "Once you¡¯re ready, move ahead with the n. No matter what, Ji Yu must not get away."


    She spoke viciously into the phone. She had wanted to target Ji Yu before, but she had managed to stay calm then. Now that she knew Gu Qixiao genuinely liked Ji Yu, there was no way she¡¯d sit by quietly.


    When Assistant Li arrived to pick her up, Song Xuan seemed unusually calm¡ªno tears, no tantrums.


    For a moment, this unsettled Assistant Li. "Miss Song, you probably won¡¯t see President Gu for a while after you return home. He¡¯s been quite busytely managing other matters."


    "Then take me to thepany," she insisted, determined to keep tabs on Gu Qixiao.


    But Gu Qixiao wasn¡¯t at thepany at all, leaving Assistant Li unsure how to respond.


    "President Gu said you should go home and rest. Your facial injuries are healing nicely, and it¡¯s best you stay away from sunlight for now."


    Unexpectedly, Song Xuan didn¡¯t put up a fight.


    This left Assistant Li even more bewildered, convinced that something wasn¡¯t right.


    But there was no way to say for certain that a person being quiet had to mean trouble.


    So, he decided to ry the news to Gu Qixiao.


    Gu Qixiao was still lingering outside Renewal Clinic, clearly preupied and unable to deal with the Song Xuan ordeal.


    From a distance, he spotted Ji Yu seemingly chatting with someone, almost instinctively trying to see who was beside her.


    "Yu, it seems someone is watching you from over there."


    Lu Xingchen hade to visit Ji Yu, and seeing someone observing her from afar, he grew concerned for her safety.


    Ji Yu chuckled. "Don¡¯t worry about it¡ªI know who it is."


    What was wrong with Gu Qixiao today? Did he have a screw loose? Otherwise, why waste his precious time on this?


    "You know them?" Lu Xingchen vaguely felt the person looked familiar but couldn¡¯t recall where he¡¯d seen them before.


    "I wouldn¡¯t say I know him¡ªlet¡¯s just say he used to have patients here, so he¡¯s a family member of one of my patients."


    She sincerely hoped those two stayed together for life, sparing others from their trouble.


    Still, dealing with them before had been exasperating enough for Ji Yu.


    "Since he¡¯s a patient¡¯s family, why not invite him over to join the conversation? Maybe there¡¯s something else he wants to discuss."


    Lu Xingchen¡¯s suggestion was purely well-intentioned.


    But Ji Yu was already fed up with everything. "Forget it, that guy¡¯s brain might have some issues. I¡¯d rather not bother."


    If the topic shifted to her child, Ji Yu wouldn¡¯t know how to handle it.


    "By the way, Xingchen, is there something specific you wanted to talk about today?"


    She assumed Lu Xingchen wanted to discuss her facial treatment.


    "Not really. I just wanted to invite you out for a meal. Don¡¯t worry¡ªthis time, no one will know we¡¯re there."


    His gaze at Ji Yu radiated anticipation.


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t overthink it. She figured this was also a perfect chance to shake off Gu Qixiao, so she straightforwardly agreed.


    "I¡¯ll let you treat me, then."


    The two walked out of Renewal Clinic, brushing past Gu Qixiao.


    Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t even get a chance to greet them before beingpletely ignored.


    He stared in disbelief at Ji Yu¡¯s retreating figure, feeling that something was seriously off.


    "Ji Yu, stop right there!" He wasn¡¯t going to let Ji Yu leave with someone else.


    Ji Yu furrowed her brows, her impatience apparent. "President Gu, could you please take a good look at the situation? I¡¯ve already tied up the loose ends for you¡ªwhy are you still pestering me?"


    Who wouldn¡¯t feel irritated witnessing this?


    Besides, Ji Yu had already told him time and again that they weren¡¯tpatible.


    She couldn¡¯t outright reveal to Gu Qixiao that he was the "ex-husband" she had mentioned earlier, so she resorted to this method to convey her disdain instead.

 Chapter 71 Disdain

    <h4>Chapter 71: Chapter 71 Disdain</h4>


    Gu Qixiao stared at Ji Yu in disbelief, "So in your heart, this is the kind of person I am?"


    His expression looked somewhat wounded, as if this incident had dealt him a significant blow.


    Ji Yu sighed helplessly, unsure of what Zhang Wei was up to this time. "I just wanted to tell President Gu that I don¡¯t harbor any improper feelings, and you don¡¯t need to worry about this matter anymore."


    They couldn¡¯t keep entangling like this.


    Was there trouble between him and his little girlfriend?


    "I don¡¯t like using other people¡¯s leftovers, even when ites to men."


    Before Gu Qixiao could react to the meaning of that sentence, Ji Yu had already ordered the driver to leave.


    Leaving Gu Qixiao standing alone in the swirling wind.


    He began to wonder if Ji Yu had already found out about his previous marriage.


    But hardly anyone knew about that ¡ª how had Ji Yu gotten this information?


    "President Gu, shall we return to the office?"


    The driver looked at Gu Qixiao¡¯s expression and couldn¡¯t help but feel a bit worried.


    What could a driver do when the boss was suffering from heartbreak?


    Of course, the answer was to act as if they hadn¡¯t seen anything.


    "She definitely likes me! That¡¯s why she went to such lengths to investigate me. It has to be that."


    Clearly, everyone underestimated Gu Qixiao¡¯s ability tofort himself. Upon hearing this, the driver wanted to voice his skepticism but restrained himself after noticing Gu Qixiao¡¯s expression.


    Meanwhile, Ji Yu¡¯s situation was equally awkward.


    She had no intention of letting anyone see what had happened. Yet this time, Lu Xingchen happened to be present.


    "Looks like our Yu is really in high demand."


    He had mentioned this to Ji Yu before, and seeing her poprity now worried him somewhat.


    "It¡¯s all bad luck." She rubbed her temples tiredly.


    She just hoped Gu Qixiao¡¯s thoughts would pass quickly.


    Although Gu Qixiao wasn¡¯t a bad person, he was definitely not an ideal match.


    "There¡¯s nothing between me and him. It¡¯s just that some things are easy to misunderstand."


    She chose to speak tactfully; otherwise, exining thingster could beplicated.


    Gu Qixiao had a knack for causing trouble.


    Ji Yu had be numb to situations like this and just wanted Lu Xingchen not to misunderstand.


    "Don¡¯t worry. I can tell you don¡¯t have feelings for Gu Qixiao. I¡¯m just curious how you two got entangled together."


    This kind of situation would make anyone surprised.


    Neither mentioned the topic again, but Ji Yu picked at her meal absently, turning over how she couldn¡¯t allow things to develop further like this.


    Who knew what Gu Qixiao¡¯s next move would be?


    So when she returned home that evening, she decisively blocked all of Gu Qixiao¡¯s contact information, even including Assistant Li.


    As a result, the next day, when Gu Qixiao tried to contact Ji Yu, he found her unreachable.


    "President Gu, maybe Doctor Ji has other matters to attend to?"


    Assistant Li hurriedly tried to smooth things over; otherwise, the ones taking the me would be the staff.


    No one could stop the boss from pursuing romance, but the rtionship hadn¡¯t even started, and the situation was already overly intense.


    "You try calling her."


    However, getting blocked wasn¡¯t a new experience for him; Ji Yu had done this before.


    So having it happen again wasn¡¯t particrly surprising.


    "Forget it. Since she doesn¡¯t want to answer my calls, I¡¯ll find another way."


    No matter what, Ji Yu wouldn¡¯t be able to fully escape him.


    But Ji Yu was indeed very busy this time. Seeing the face of a patient brought in, her expression grew serious.


    "Why did you wait so long to bring him in? A child with a weak immune system is at high risk for infection."


    Looking at the severity of the wounds on the child¡¯s face, Ji Yu¡¯s eyes revealed her concern. She wished the parents would disy some basic knowledge.


    "I don¡¯t know what happened. We already took him to the hospital before, and the doctor didn¡¯t say anything about it deteriorating."


    Their cluelessness irritated Ji Yu deeply.


    "Go sign the surgical consent form and the responsibility waiver first. I¡¯ll study the best approach for the child¡¯s treatment."


    This time, when Ji Yu saw Gu Qixiao, she didn¡¯t even greet him.


    Gu Qixiao tactfully stayed silent.


    It was his first time seeing Ji Yu so immersed in her work, with such a serious attitude.


    Unlike the previous cases he had witnessed, the child¡¯s wounds were still fresh. In that sense, the child was somewhat fortunate.


    "Didn¡¯t you say your surgeries were booked far in advance?"


    "But this is a child." Ji Yu¡¯s expression didn¡¯t waver.


    Her response was natural and heartfelt.


    This child would grow up facing ridicule because of their face, and Ji Yu couldn¡¯t bring herself to ignore that.


    "If you don¡¯t have other business, don¡¯t stand in the way here."


    "Can I observe your surgery process? I can offer financial support to help more families like this." He understood that not everyone could afford surgery.


    Ji Yu was surprised but recognized that this project could greatly benefit families like these.


    "Alright."


    She didn¡¯t refuse, leaving Gu Qixiao both baffled and impressed. He had gained a new understanding of her.


    It seemed that no matter the circumstances, when Ji Yu faced her professional duties, she would focuspletely, disregarding external opinions.


    As time ticked away, Ji Yu still hadn¡¯t found the optimal n.


    The family was growing restless. "Didn¡¯t they say this doctor has the most confidence in surgeries like this? Why hasn¡¯t she started yet?"


    They were already at their wit¡¯s end and pinned their hopes on Ji Yu.


    But Ji Yu wasn¡¯t a miracle worker. No matter how skilled, she needed time to prepare and n thoroughly.


    "Our Doctor Ji needs some time to prepare as well. We¡¯ll do our utmost to preserve your child¡¯s facial structure and help him recover as much as possible."


    They had dealt with simr situations before and knew how to reassure families.


    Yet, the family still worried that Ji Yu was too young, doubting whether the surgery could seed.


    "Please rest assured. When ites to this type of surgery, Doctor Ji is second to none."


    They tried their best to reassure them.


    Showing Ji Yu¡¯s credentials finally calmed the family somewhat.


    Standing off to the side, Gu Qixiao observed Ji Yu and suddenly felt she was truly admirable.


    Perhaps what he had done earlier had indeed disturbed Ji Yu.


    "The n is ready now. Please take a look and see if you believe it¡¯s appropriate. Since it¡¯s for a child, the surgery might present elevated risks."

 Chapter 72 Treatment Plan

    <h4>Chapter 72: Chapter 72 Treatment n</h4>


    After Ji Yu showed them the n, she waited for their answer.


    "Doctor Ji, we don¡¯t have that much money. Could you give us a bit of a discount?"


    Facing such a situation, their eyes brimmed with tears as they hoped Ji Yu would help them.


    Ji Yu had already anticipated something like this.


    Her gaze shifted to their clothing. "I can try my best to find an organization to waive some costs for you, but you still need to pay a portion yourselves."


    "Thank you, Doctor Ji. You¡¯re truly a living Bodhisattva."


    They were very grateful to Ji Yu.


    But Ji Yu herself needed to perform surgery and had no extra energy to handle other matters.


    "You should rest here for a while. This surgery might take over two hours, and I¡¯ll notify you afterward."


    Yet, they couldn¡¯t seem to calm down.


    Gu Qixiao also entered the operating room. Looking at the child¡¯s face, he felt some physiological difort, but Ji Yu, a pregnant woman, faced the entire surgery without flinching.


    For a fleeting moment, he suddenly admired Ji Yu. Just how much courage does one need to aplish something like this?


    This surgery took quite a while. Ji Yu did her utmost to ensure everything was handled properly, and when the operation ended, she nearly copsed onto the ground.


    "Sister Yu, are you okay?"


    None of them knew about Ji Yu¡¯s pregnancy; they simply thought she was overly fatigued, leading to her current state.


    Ji Yu shook her head. "Thank you for supporting me."


    Perhaps she was too weak, and her tone was especially gentle as she spoke.


    Gu Qixiao helped her into the office, his perception of Ji Yu shifting once again.


    "Why are you looking at me like that? Have you decided how much of a foundation you want to establish yet?"


    Initially, she thought Gu Qixiao was joking, but since he followed her into the operating room, he must surely be willing to contribute financially.


    She smiled brightly at Gu Qixiao, but he could sense the scheming glint in her eyes. Yet, he didn¡¯t dislike her kind of calction.


    "It seems you¡¯re quite serious about this matter. Since I promised earlier, I won¡¯t go back on my word. Someone will contact you tomorrow."


    He was bing more familiar with Ji Yu and hoped to have a proper conversation with her in the future.


    "Since the surgery is over, how about joining me for a meal?"


    He was still dwelling on yesterday¡¯s events and hoped Ji Yu would go out with him.


    "I don¡¯t have much appetite. Let¡¯s talk about it another time."


    Her expression carried a hint of helplessness. It seemed the surgery had impacted her, and she had merely endured it throughout.


    "Since you feel nauseated because of these matters, why not take some time off?"


    Looking at Ji Yu before him, Gu Qixiao felt she was being overly stubborn. Being strong-headed in such circumstances wasn¡¯t exactly a good thing.


    Ji Yu frowned slightly. "I really love my work, and I¡¯ve already handed most of the surgeries over to Tian."


    It was just that this particr surgery was special, and Ji Yu had no choice but to handle it personally. Besides, there was Song Xuan¡¯s surgery¡ªJi Yu truly couldn¡¯t just refuse it earlier.


    Gu Qixiao understood Ji Yu¡¯s thoughts. "Then what do you n to do about this child?"


    This matter troubled him deeply. He liked Ji Yu, but the issue of this child always loomed between them.


    When the topic turned to the child, Ji Yu reverted to her earlier demeanor. "What do you mean by that? My child has nothing to do with you, and your pursuit doesn¡¯t need to continue. I will never agree to it."


    How could she possibly pick up spilled water and eat it?


    Whenever she thought about the past, Ji Yu couldn¡¯t help but grit her teeth.


    Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t understand why Ji Yu reacted like that; his face showed a trace of puzzlement.


    "Do you have some misunderstanding about me?"


    Otherwise, why would she look at him with such an expression?


    Ji Yu sneered. "There¡¯s no misunderstanding between us. President Gu shouldn¡¯t take everything said previously too seriously¡ªGranny Li simply mistook your intentions."


    Even if she had to raise the child herself, Ji Yu would never be with Gu Qixiao.


    "And besides, when you say such things, have you considered Miss Song¡¯s feelings?"


    She found Gu Qixiao¡¯s behavior exasperating.


    She hoped he could focus and stop being so flighty.


    "Between you and me, Song Xuan has nothing to do with it."


    He would repay past kindness, but he absolutely wouldn¡¯t agree to marrying Song Xuan.


    Such matters weren¡¯t within his scope of consideration.


    "You suspect my rtionship with Song Xuan? There¡¯s no need for that. If I want to be with you, it means I¡¯ve already thought things through."


    He had thought things through, but she didn¡¯t want to.


    Ji Yu rolled her eyes unceremoniously. "I advise you to stop bringing this up, or I might explode with rage."


    She had long joked that her ex-husband wasn¡¯t very bright¡ªshe hadn¡¯t expected him to get even dumber.


    Looking at the situation, Ji Yu couldn¡¯t help but worry about the child in her belly. If the child took after Gu Qixiao, wouldn¡¯t it end up being just as stupid?


    "Forget it, there¡¯s no point in discussing this with you. I dislike unfaithful men and dislike people like you. I mean no offense; I¡¯m targeting you specifically."


    After those words, she outright called the cleaningdy to throw him out.


    The cleaningdy looked at Gu Qixiao¡¯s dumbfounded expression and couldn¡¯t helpmenting, "What a pity."


    "Don¡¯te looking for our Doctor Ji anymore. Our Doctor Ji is a flower on a high mountain; you people, one by one, all have impure motives."


    Even the cleaningdy could tell¡ªhow could others not?


    Unwilling to give up, Gu Qixiao wanted to quickly figure out why Ji Yu thought of him as unfaithful.


    When he got back, he had Assistant Li rify all the gossip from before.


    "President Gu, is it possible Doctor Ji misunderstood your rtionship with Miss Song? After all, you¡¯ve been quite close."


    Such matters looked suspicious, no doubt.


    Gu Qixiao furrowed his brow slightly, displeased about this situation. "The rtionship between Song Xuan and me¡ªshe should be the one most clearly aware of it. There¡¯s absolutely no way she would misunderstand this easily."


    But the evidence was right in front of them¡ªhow could there be no misunderstanding?


    "Miss Song¡¯s behavior in public does give the impression she¡¯s in a rtionship with you," Assistant Li said tactfully, worried that Gu Qixiao might end up being harmedter.


    After thinking for a while, Gu Qixiao still didn¡¯t know how to deal with the situation regarding Song Xuan.


    But before he could sort things out, a message from Song Xuan came through, and her intent was very clear¡ªshe wanted Gu Qixiao to hurry back for a visit.


    "Xiao, I¡¯ve been thinking about my brothertely. Could youe back and keep mepany? You¡¯re all I have."

 Chapter 73: Pitiable

    <h4>Chapter 73: Chapter 73: Pitiable</h4>


    Her tone had lost its previous frenzy, carrying only a trace of vulnerability. In the end, Gu Qixiao softened.


    "I¡¯ll go back tonight." He knew Song Xuan might be pretending to be pitiful, but recalling past events, he found it hard to outright reject her.


    Assistant Li looked at Gu Qixiao with frustrated disappointment but was powerless to intervene in this matter.


    Inwardly, he grew increasingly speechless about Song Xuan.


    "President Gu, Miss Ji still misunderstands the situation over there. How about resolving this matter first?"


    "Let¡¯s go back first and take a look." He hadn¡¯t returned in a long time, and keeping things cold indefinitely was not a solution either.


    As Gu Qixiao made his way back, he wrestled with how to rify things to Song Xuan.


    This time, however, Song Xuan waspletely different from before. Her gaze was no longer as crazy when looking at Gu Qixiao.


    "Xiao, I know you don¡¯t like me. I¡¯m willing to be your sister, but promise me, if you fall for someone, you must tell me."


    She no longer seemed intent on pursuing him, appearing as though past events no longer mattered to her.


    Gu Qixiao felt relieved by this, "It¡¯s best that you think this way. I¡¯ll help you find a suitable husband, and I promise you won¡¯t have to suffer in the future."


    He envisioned a long-term n, knowing Song Xuan¡¯s temperament might pose challenges down the line. He decided to select among the Gu family¡¯s business partners.


    Song Xuan continued to smile, but her fingernails were digging fiercely into her flesh.


    She couldn¡¯t believe Gu Qixiao had already nned all of this. To her, it seemed like Gu Qixiao was simply trying to get rid of her.


    "Xiao, thank you for considering so much for me."


    Whether that gratitude was genuine would depend on her own thoughts.


    Gu Qixiao feltforted by her apparent understanding, "Since you understand, don¡¯t dwell on this matter anymore."


    He wanted the best for Song Xuan, but there was no possibility of them being lovers.


    That night, their rtionship seemed to mend at that moment. Gu Qixiao could face Song Xuan with a clear conscience.


    But he still didn¡¯t want Ji Yu to misunderstand their connection.


    "By the way, Xiao, is there really something going on between you and Doctor Ji?"


    Her tone carried a hint of inquiry, but a woman¡¯s sixth sense already told Song Xuan that this matter could hardly be false.


    Her heart harbored resentment, but certain things couldn¡¯t be changed.


    "I don¡¯t quite know how to describe it, but she is indeed very special."


    This kind of feeling was simply love.


    Song Xuan smiled, "Is that so? Doctor Ji is indeed very beautiful. Even as a woman, I find her captivating."


    "It¡¯s not about her looks; it¡¯s about the person she is."


    Gu Qixiao led Song Xuan to sit on the sofa.


    "I know the defect on your face since childhood has made you particrly concerned about appearances, but Ji Yu is far more than just a pretty face."


    When he thought of Ji Yu, his gaze became tender, as if this realization had settled in his heart long ago.


    In his thoughts of Ji Yu, he didn¡¯t notice the resentment boiling in the eyes of the woman beside him, who seemed ready to swallow Ji Yu whole.


    The two talked a great deal this time, though Gu Qixiao refrained from provoking her.


    "Alright, you should rest well. Your face needs to have its medication changed soon."


    Song Xuan smiled and agreed, but as she watched Gu Qixiao leave, her eyes filled with a hatred that cut to the bone.


    She had never loathed anyone as she loathed Ji Yu, Ji Yu being the first.


    Just the thought of Ji Yu made her want to tear her apart.


    "Miss Song..." The housekeeper sweeping the floor was startled by the look in her eyes.


    "Don¡¯t you dare say a word." Song Xuan no longer cared about what others thought but couldn¡¯t disregard Gu Qixiao¡¯s opinion.


    The night appeared calm, yet left certain people tossing and turning.


    Gu Qixiao¡¯s relentless pursuit of Ji Yu showed no signs of stopping, as he continued to send her fresh flowers as reliably as clockwork.


    Every time Ji Yu saw the roses, she¡¯d recall Gu Qixiao and remark, "Are you burning money for amusement? If you¡¯ve got spare cash, why not donate it to the foundation?"


    She truly had no energy to deal with these flowers.


    But Gu Qixiao believed the flowers suited her perfectly.


    "Is there even a girl who doesn¡¯t like flowers?"


    Ji Yu almost rolled her eyes, "These flowers are indeed beautiful, but it doesn¡¯t mean everyone must like them. At least in my view, they¡¯re a bit wasteful."


    She didn¡¯t want to say anything overly harsh to Gu Qixiao, but such extravagant gestures shouldn¡¯t be directed at her.


    "Since you don¡¯t like flowers, how about discussing the foundation¡¯s affairs instead? I¡¯ve already prepared a contract. Take a look."


    Ji Yu seemed genuinely interested in this, as her attitude towards Gu Qixiao improved whenever they talked about such matters.


    However, Gu Qixiao enjoyed every moment of this, even if Ji Yu¡¯s attitude was harsh¡ªhe found her perfect regardless.


    "Why do you keep staring at me while talking about the foundation? Are you sure you really want to allocate money for this?"


    "Don¡¯t worry, I won¡¯t skimp on anything. Besides, I don¡¯t think there¡¯s anyone here unable to pay their medical bills." Gu Qixiao knew this point well.


    Anyone seeking out Ji Yu was certainly aware of her reputation.


    Ji Yu raised a brow, "President Gu, you¡¯re ttering me too much. But you¡¯re correct¡ªonly children referred by hospitals might genuinely struggle to afford treatment."


    In truth, Ji Yu didn¡¯t enjoy ying the role of a savior, as some people simply didn¡¯t deserve sympathy.


    "Offering this much money is already sufficient. If an opportunity arises, I¡¯ll ensure you¡¯re repaid."


    Song Xuan¡¯s earlier matter was now behind them, but this time, she felt indebted to Gu Qixiao.


    Gu Qixiao chuckled, "I didn¡¯t expect something like this to leave such an impression on you. If I had known, I¡¯d have acted sooner."


    He already knew Ji Yu could be stubborn outwardly but soft-hearted inside. She appeared to care about everything but struggled with certain issues.


    "I just don¡¯t want to owe you anything." Ji Yu¡¯s expression turned slightly unnatural, worried he¡¯d overthink it, and she promptly extinguished such notions.


    "I have an ex-husband and a child. Stop imagining things about us."


    Even if he *was* the ex-husband and the father of the child, it didn¡¯t change the facts.


    She no longer wanted this situation to continue developing.


    Seeing how resistant Ji Yu seemed to this topic, Gu Qixiao couldn¡¯t help but voice his doubts, "Why do you think I¡¯m unfaithful? I can ept your child wholeheartedly."


    Even Ji Yu couldn¡¯t help but reevaluate him after hearing those words.


    "Gu Qixiao, are you so idle that you want to be a rebound guy?"


    Her eyes carried disbelief, as if the idea was utterly shocking.

 Chapter 74: Greed

    <h4>Chapter 74: Chapter 74: Greed</h4>


    "I don¡¯t have such intentions, but if it were you, I could temporarily ept it."


    He put on a righteous and selfless act.


    But this child wasn¡¯t Ji Yu¡¯s fault either.


    "This child came into your life before I did¡ªthere was no way to avoid it. Besides, I¡¯ve long been aware of your marriage, but aren¡¯t you single now?"


    With words like that, Ji Yu felt she was about to hand him an award for audacity.


    Does this guy seriously have no issues?


    "To be honest, President Gu, I don¡¯t think there¡¯s any need for you to be so humble about who you like. Why keep entangling yourself with me like this?"


    If word got out, probably no one would believe it.


    "Why can¡¯t you ept me? If you can go on dates with Lu Xingchen, why can¡¯t we?"


    Ji Yu was baffled. "When did I ever go on a date with Xingchen?"


    All they did was have a meal together, wasn¡¯t it?


    She felt this usation was utter nder.


    "Your rtionship with Lu Xingchen has been buzzing on the inte for a while now. I don¡¯t mind if you have a past with him."


    Gu Qixiao spoke with an air of utter confidence, as if this matter were crystal clear in his mind.


    For a brief moment, Ji Yu wondered if he was doing this on purpose. "What good does looking at those online rumors do? Xingchen has a career in the entertainment industry; how could he casually have a girlfriend? We¡¯re just friends."


    Gu Qixiao suppressed the smile threatening to curl his lips. He was thoroughly satisfied with this answer. "Since that¡¯s the case and there¡¯s no one else by your side, why not me?"


    Great¡ªafter all this back and forth, it circled right back to square one.


    Ji Yu rubbed her temple in frustration. "Who I am close to has nothing to do with you."


    If not for the fact that he carried significant financial clout, Ji Yu doubted she would¡¯ve bothered with him today.


    "I owe you a personal favor, yes, but the rtionship between us can only ever remain as friends."


    Getting too close to Gu Qixiao wouldn¡¯t be good; if he discovered the truth about the child, things could get messy.


    "Now that we¡¯ve finished talking about the foundation, maybe you, President Gu, should head back to work. Don¡¯t let it be saidter that I caused you to neglect your duties."


    Ji Yu¡¯s demeanor was icy, once again reminding Gu Qixiao of just how difficult she could be at times.


    He grabbed Ji Yu¡¯s wrist, meeting her indifferent gaze with some dissatisfaction in his heart. "It seems that Doctor Ji really is the type to use people and discard them."


    Ji Yu arched an eyebrow. "Oh? And yet President Gu dares to pursue me? Aren¡¯t you scared I¡¯ll be the first to use you up and toss you aside?"


    Unfortunately for her, Gu Qixiao was brimming with confidence. "That definitely won¡¯t happen."


    The man was insufferably self-assured.


    But Gu Qixiao did have other things to attend to next and didn¡¯t press her further.


    "Yu, I will keep pursuing you."


    With that, he made a quick getaway from her office before Ji Yu could react.


    Once Ji Yu processed what he had just called her, her expression turned slightly awkward. She developed a renewed understanding of Gu Qixiao¡¯s shamelessness.


    "Doctor Ji, are you feeling unwell? Your face seems a little red."


    "It¡¯s nothing¡ªit¡¯s probably just because I didn¡¯t turn on the air conditioning." She certainly couldn¡¯t admit it was the nickname "Yu" that brought up old memories.


    That name was only used by people from the orphanage...


    She was keenly aware that the "Yu" Gu Qixiao had called her was without a doubt that one.


    Her expression became slightly dazed as she inevitably started reminiscing about the past.


    "Yu?"


    "President Gu, haven¡¯t you said enough¡ª" Ji Yu turned around, but it was Ji Yuanzhou standing there, her words awkwardly freezing in her throat.


    "Brother, how do you have time to visit me today?" She felt a bit clumsy, unsure of what to say.


    Ji Yuanzhou had overheard her call for President Gu, so he figured someone must have been there earlier.


    "I came to see if you were done with work. Mom said you¡¯d probably be visiting Granny Li¡¯s resting ce today, so she asked me to join you in paying respects."


    Today marked a month since Granny Li passed away.


    Ji Yu had been deeply affected by her passing and was still struggling with the loss.


    They all knew how much Granny Li had cared for Ji Yu and wanted to show their respects too.


    "Thank you."


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t know what else to say. Their remembering this meant so much to her.


    The two walked to the cemetery in silence.


    When they arrived at Granny Li¡¯s resting ce, the orphanage director was already there, chatting softly by the grave.


    Seeing them approach, she seemed a bit surprised.


    "Director Mom, how did you get here so early?"


    Worried about her health, Ji Yu quickly fetched her a coat.


    The director smiled kindly. "I came to see Granny Li. It¡¯s been a month since she left, and I still haven¡¯t gotten used to it."


    They had been oldpanions at the orphanage, and her absence left an undeniable void.


    Ji Yu felt a deep pang of sadness. "How have you beentely, Director Mom? How are the new volunteers?"


    "They¡¯re fine overall. You don¡¯t need to worry about the orphanage; as long as I¡¯m here, no harm wille to the children."


    She patted Ji Yu¡¯s hand gently before ncing curiously at Ji Yuanzhou. "And this young man is...?"


    "This is my brother."


    It had been so long since theyst met that the director didn¡¯t entirely recall Ji Yuanzhou.


    "Ah, one of the Ji family¡¯s children¡ªhow thoughtful of you toe."


    The director was moved by their support for Ji Yu all these years.


    But she couldn¡¯t help but wonder why Gu Qixiao wasn¡¯t by Ji Yu¡¯s side. "What about that other gentleman...?"


    "Director Mom, there¡¯s nothing between us. Granny Li was confused at the time, which was why he yed along."


    Ji Yu had always believed this to be true.


    Besides, Gu Qixiao hadn¡¯t shown any romantic intent back then.


    "Is that so? That¡¯s a pity. I was hoping someone could take care of you."


    The director didn¡¯t push the topic further. They reminisced about the past and talked about the kids at the orphanage.


    Ji Yuanzhou couldn¡¯t help but feel gratitude for the director and Granny Li.


    "If it hadn¡¯t been for you back then, Yu wouldn¡¯t have joined our family. We owe you so much."


    The director simply smiled and shook her head. "It was Yu who truly has good fortune."


    Everyone wished for Ji Yu to find happiness.


    Looking around, Ji Yu suddenly felt some form of peace.


    Perhaps Granny Li had already moved on to a better world, one where she wouldn¡¯t have to worry anymore. And they shouldn¡¯t let her worry, either.


    "Granny, I¡¯ll visit you again."


    She hoped that even in another world, Granny Li wouldn¡¯t feel lonely.


    "Director Mom, you shouldn¡¯t stay out here any longer. If you catch a cold, that would be trouble."


    The wind today was particrly strong.


    Ji Yu was genuinely concerned for the director¡¯s health.


    Ever since Granny Li passed, the director¡¯s health had noticeably declined. Ji Yu couldn¡¯t shake the fear of another loss looming on the horizon.

 Chapter 75 Romance

    <h4>Chapter 75: Chapter 75 Romance</h4>


    The orphanage director smiled, "You, just focus on living your life well. We old folks are nothing you need to worry about."


    She understood in her heart that Ji Yu would certainly keep these matters in mind going forward.


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t say anything else and quietly helped Ji Yuanzhou escort the orphanage director back to the orphanage.


    In her heart, she felt quite sentimental about it.


    "Not nning to go home today?" Ji Yuanzhou was concerned about Ji Yu¡¯s state, but seeing her demeanor, he didn¡¯t press further, worrying it might affect her mood.


    "Brother, don¡¯t worry about me. I¡¯m doing much better." She knew that many people had been concerned about her during this time.


    Now, there¡¯s nothing to dwell on or grieve over. The matter with Grandma has passed, and those of them still alive should strive to live happily.


    When her gazended on the person next to her, her eyes regained a hint of warmth.


    Ji Yuanzhou sighed helplessly, "You never stop worrying me, girl. Since there¡¯s nothing else, hurry home."


    This time, Ji Yu didn¡¯t refuse.


    She couldn¡¯t help but start pondering the days ahead, especially regarding Gu Qixiao.


    But that man seemed to have an unshakable persistence. Despite the way Ji Yu had confronted him, he still insisted on sending her flowers.


    "Sister Yu, this President Gu is really stubborn, sending you flowers every single day without fail."


    Everyone thought this pursuit was quite unusual.


    Unfortunately, Ji Yu wasn¡¯t interested in this kind of courtship.


    "Just send the flowers back outright¡ªit¡¯ll save him from wasting money on them."


    "Even if you refuse, I¡¯ll still send them." Gu Qixiao, at some point, was already standing at the doorway.


    The surrounding people tactfully dispersed, wanting to observe where the two of them might end up.


    Ji Yu rubbed her forehead in exasperation, feeling helpless about this situation. "Why are you here again?"


    This kind of pursuit tactic¡ªelementary schoolers wouldn¡¯t even use it. Yet Gu Qixiao still persisted.


    However, Gu Qixiao was very earnest about it, "You don¡¯t have to like the flowers I send; you can throw them away. But even if you refuse delivery, I¡¯ll continue sending them."


    He had all the patience in the world to oust Ji Yu.


    Ji Yu, feelingpletely helpless, didn¡¯t even know how to deal with this matter.


    "You¡¯re really..."


    Hadn¡¯t he seemed skeptical before? How did he suddenly fall for her?


    "The way you like me¡ªI dare not ept. I already told you that I admire people who are loyal in love. But you don¡¯t seem to fit that criteria."


    She looked at Gu Qixiao, her eyes filled with resignation.


    However, Gu Qixiao was unwavering. He grabbed Ji Yu¡¯s hand and started leading her outside, "I¡¯ll take you somewhere."


    Ji Yu tried to pull her hand away, but the disparity in strength between them made it impossible. Even if she didn¡¯t want to go with him, it wasn¡¯t an option.


    "Where are you taking me?"


    Seeing the look in Ji Yu¡¯s eyes, as if she were about to be sold off, Gu Qixiao couldn¡¯t help butugh, "Don¡¯t worry, I just want to take you out for a meal and have a proper talk about us."


    If he wanted to pursue Ji Yu, he couldn¡¯t afford to let her misunderstand him.


    He also wanted to rify why Ji Yu perceived him as someone unfaithful.


    "Such a big fuss, just to take me out for a meal?" She really wanted to question Gu Qixiao¡¯s sanity, but seeing his serious demeanor, she found it hard to say it aloud.


    "Why not take you out for a meal? Every time I¡¯ve asked, you¡¯ve declined. This time, you can¡¯t refuse again, can you?"


    He had already thought everything through, determined not to give Ji Yu a chance to escape.


    "It hasn¡¯t been that many times." In Ji Yu¡¯s memory, it seemed like only a couple of asions had shed with other matters. Besides, what do they even have to talk about?


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t think there was any misunderstanding between them.


    She was highly skeptical about this matter.


    When they arrived at the restaurant, Gu Qixiao led her into a private room specifically. Seeing the arrangement that gave off a mb to the ughter" vibe, Ji Yu became even more suspicious. Could it be that he wouldn¡¯t let her leave if his confession didn¡¯t work?


    "Why are you so scared of me?" He looked at her with resignation, stepping closer and pulling Ji Yu beside him.


    "I¡¯m not afraid of you; I¡¯m worried you might lose your mind. This distance feels just right."


    She stuck to her perspective.


    But now, the situation seemed a little off.


    "What is it, you don¡¯t like being close to me?" He kept closing in on Ji Yu, trying to discern her thoughts.


    Ji Yu¡¯s expression faltered, "I barely know you¡ªwhy would I suddenly feelfortable being close to you?"


    Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t mind at all. Sitting earnestly across from her, he said, "In that case, I¡¯ll dly introduce myself again: I¡¯m Gu Qixiao, President of the Gu family, and your admirer."


    At this point, his face flushed slightly, faintly tinged with embarrassment.


    Ji Yu found his actions amusing but thought better ofughing. If she did, she¡¯d likely be detained here.


    "And then? What do you want to say? Surely not that I should ept you? Just because you¡¯re pursuing me doesn¡¯t mean I¡¯ll agree. Moreover, the things you¡¯ve done before left no good impression¡ªwhy persist?"


    She had already made her stance clear.


    Hoping he would understand what that meant.


    Especially considering his messy entanglement with Song Xuan.


    Ji Yu, who had almost been swayed, suddenly came to her senses, nearly forgetting about that issue.


    "Why? Because you think I¡¯m what¡ªa flirt?"


    He had never understood this usation, especially the "little lovers" Ji Yu had mentioned before¡ªit stuck with him.


    "I have no idea where you got that impression, but I¡¯m absolutely not an unfaithful person. This is the first time I¡¯ve ever actively pursued someone."


    Ji Yu frowned, "Then what about Miss Song? The time and energy you¡¯ve spent on her weren¡¯t negligible. Are you telling me there¡¯s no connection between the two of you? Anyone would find that hard to believe."


    These things depended on how much time and effort he invested¡ªsince that¡¯s the case, why im there weren¡¯t feelings involved?


    "I don¡¯t understand why you¡¯d misunderstand my rtionship with Song Xuan, but I¡¯ve always viewed her as a younger sister."


    "Please spare me the ssic lines of a yer." Ji Yu¡¯s blunt response signaled her instinct to distance herself from trouble.


    "Everyone¡¯s your younger sister¡ªwhy do you have so many younger sisters? To be honest, I think you and her make a great pair. Her feelings for you are so apparent even a blind person could sense them. Why not ept her?"


    This "beloved younger sister" was better left for him to enjoy privately.


    Anyone who ends up with Gu Qixiao in the future would likely face endless headaches¡ªafter all, who wouldn¡¯t be wary of such sisters?


    Gu Qixiao¡¯s brows furrowed tightly, "I¡¯m not joking¡ªshe truly is my younger sister. The situation isplicated, and I can¡¯t exin it all at once, but it¡¯s definitely not what you think."


    The past incidents were matters Gu Qixiao hadn¡¯t revisited in a long time, and now he was unwilling to delve further. He only wanted to clear up the misunderstanding.

 Chapter 76 Clarify

    <h4>Chapter 76: Chapter 76 rify</h4>


    But things have already reached this point¡ªhow can it be exined clearly with just a few words?


    "I don¡¯t need you to exin clearly; you just need to say it outright."


    From the very beginning, she had already foreseen all possible oues, so hearing this didn¡¯te as a shock.


    But things somehow seemed a little different from what Ji Yu had imagined.


    "I never intended to have any kind of rtionship with Song Xuan, nor do I understand why you¡¯d think this way."


    Even while exining, he thought it was absurd.


    Moreover, after all this time spent together, shouldn¡¯t Ji Yu have already felt his affection for her?


    Things like this might appear a bit ridiculous.


    Yet Ji Yu persisted with her own stance, "I got it."


    Still showing no intention of agreeing.


    The meal ended up being somewhat tasteless.


    Itpletely failed to achieve what Gu Qixiao had hoped.


    "What do you mean?" He still wanted to understand Ji Yu¡¯s true thoughts.


    Ji Yu, helpless and equally confused about the situation, replied, "My stance remains what it was. Haven¡¯t you noticed that I don¡¯t have even the slightest bit of affection for you?"


    Such an affection was simply too heavy for her.


    Besides, their understanding of each other might be deeper than he realized.


    Just thinking about their failed marriage made Ji Yu intent on letting go first and foremost.


    "I couldn¡¯t possibly fall for someone who¡¯s just picking up the pieces. And to be honest, your behavior makes me suspect you might have other motives."


    If there were other motives, it would be best to sort them out quickly.


    Ji Yu¡¯s attitude was crystal clear, but Gu Qixiao thought Ji Yu was being irrational. "Do you think I¡¯m joking with you? My feelings are so obvious¡ªeven other people can sense them. Why are you the only one who can¡¯t?"


    "Please let go." Ji Yu stared coldly at Gu Qixiao, as if he were behaving unreasonably.


    Under that gaze, Gu Qixiao finally had no choice but to let go.


    The extent of his unwillingness was something only he could understand.


    After leaving, Ji Yu didn¡¯t feel much happier. She decided to invite Feng Qinqin out for some distraction.


    "President Ji, what brought you to drag me out sote in the day? Unless you¡¯re reconciling with your ex-husband or something monumental, I wouldn¡¯t even consider listening."


    Her tone had a touch of teasing, but unexpectedly Ji Yu didn¡¯t refute it.


    "Wait a minute, give me a moment to process this¡ªwhat did I just say?"


    She looked at Ji Yu incredulously, her eyes filled with shock.


    Ji Yu quickly held her down. "Don¡¯t overthink it; it¡¯s not about reconciliation between the two of us, so just drop it."


    Even she wasn¡¯t sure how to exin it. "It¡¯s just that Gu Qixiao has been acting a bit strangetely. Tonight, he even dragged me out for dinner. I¡¯m annoyed and figured I¡¯d talk it over with you."


    She had never spoken about Gu Qixiao¡¯s odd behavior before, so Feng Qinqin naturally found it intriguing.


    "Is that true? Spill¡ªwhat¡¯s this all about? Tell me everything."


    Her eyes were filled with curiosity, but more than that, she wanted to know what sort of bizarre moves Gu Qixiao had been pulling to make Ji Yu speak this way.


    "He¡¯s been sending me roses every single day, rain or shine¡ªno matter what I say or do, it¡¯s always the same."


    When recounting this, her expression showed some hesitation. "His recent behavior feels like he¡¯s be apletely different person. I don¡¯t even know how to describe him."


    Whenever she thought of Gu Qixiao, Ji Yu couldn¡¯t help butin.


    "Your ex-husband really is something else." Feng Qinqin also found it ridiculous, especially after no contact for three years, for him now to act deeply in love.


    "So what¡¯s up with him and that Song Xuan?"


    This topic was important too, and she appeared conflicted when discussing it. "He says Song Xuan is like his sister, but who calls their ¡¯sister¡¯ that way?"


    Their rtionship clearly felt abnormal.


    Yet some things seemed true.


    "Don¡¯t bother fretting over this. I always think this man¡¯s brain might be wired wrong. Even if Song Xuan has nothing to do with him, you still can¡¯t end up with him."


    Feng Qinqin offered her advice earnestly.


    Especially given that no matter the truth of his words, Song Xuan¡¯s intentions seemed undeniable.


    The things she¡¯d said before had already made Song Xuan¡¯s possessiveness over Gu Qixiao evident.


    "I can¡¯t tell if Gu Qixiao genuinely likes you. But having someone like that as his good ¡¯sister¡¯¡ªwho wouldn¡¯t suffer?"


    Feng Qinqin¡¯s disdain for Gu Qixiao was clear, and she felt that since he¡¯d already given up back then, there was no need for him to try again now.


    "Yuyu, please, do not turn back now. Good horses don¡¯t revisit old paths, and with the way Gu Qixiao is, having a child with him would turn you stupid."


    She spoke earnestly, hoping Ji Yu would swiftly steer clear of this man.


    Ji Yu touched her stomach with some guilt, honestly having intended to keep this matter a secret from everyone. Now, it seemed like everyone knew¡ªeveryone except Feng Qinqin perhaps.


    "Do you really think that way?"


    "Of course! Yuyu, think about it: Gu Qixiao really only has good looks. His intelligence just doesn¡¯t cut it." Feng Qinqin¡¯s disdain for Gu Qixiao was obvious, and recalling his past behavior made her annoyance impossible to conceal.


    "It¡¯s not that extreme, is it?" Ji Yu suddenly felt a twinge of concern for the child inside her, fearing that if it really resembled Gu Qixiao, it might indeedck brains.


    Thinking about the child¡¯s possible situation made Ji Yu¡¯s head spin.


    Feng Qinqin, unaware of Ji Yu¡¯s pregnancy, reached out to pat Ji Yu¡¯s belly, "Sis, you¡¯ve never seen it. I knew another friend once who had a child with someone not so bright, and the kid grew up to be sweet but clueless."


    Some of these traits do tend to be inherited.


    For a moment, Ji Yu had no idea what to say.


    "But I know for sure you wouldn¡¯t agree to Gu Qixiao¡¯s proposal. You¡¯re smart¡ªyou won¡¯t foolishly jump back into the fire twice."


    Feng Qinqin had great faith in Ji Yu.


    Ji Yu swallowed back her secret about the child, figuring she¡¯d find a better day to bring it upter.


    Who knows what might happen afterward?


    "Say, what if I had a child with Gu Qixiao¡ªshould we get back together?"


    "What? There¡¯s already a child? Then, for the sake of the kid, you might have to reconsider. Though, I¡¯ll admit Gu Qixiao is hard to deal with."


    Feng Qinqin remembered some unpleasant memories.


    Sharing them with Ji Yu seemed to only further their shared grievances toward Gu Qixiao.


    "Thest time he came to our house to apologize, his attitude wasn¡¯t great either. He acted as if we owed him something¡ªjust remembering it now makes me annoyed."

 Chapter 77: The Matter of the Child

    <h4>Chapter 77: Chapter 77: The Matter of the Child</h4>


    She was still a little angry when she spoke about this matter,


    "Yuyu, you have no idea. Back then, I actually wanted to refuse, but when I thought of the financial problems at home, I could only temporarilypromise."


    She looked aggrieved as she talked about it but felt she should seriously discuss this person¡¯s character with Ji Yu.


    Ji Yu¡¯s lips twitched. "Really? By the way you put it, that does sound rather unreasonable."


    Once again, she was torn on what to do about the child.


    "Fortunately, your assumption doesn¡¯t hold at all. You two haven¡¯t seen each other in three years. How could you possibly be pregnant?"


    Feng Qinqin thought she had found the truth,pletely unaware that she had just brushed past it.


    This time, she listed quite a few ws about Gu Qixiao.


    Before heading home, she even reminded Ji Yu repeatedly never to get involved with Gu Qixiao, saying she¡¯d surely be foolish if she did.


    As a result, after Ji Yu got home, the only thing circling her mind was the word "foolish."


    "Yuyu, what¡¯s wrong?"


    Madam Ji noticed Ji Yu seemed preupied and looked worried about her emotional state.


    "Mom, I¡¯ve been thinking about this child. You probably know that the child doesn¡¯t have a father now. After I give birth, I¡¯ll have to raise him alone."


    She was fully aware of the challenges the child would face after being born.


    "Silly girl, so that¡¯s what¡¯s been troubling you. Even if you don¡¯t want to tell us who the child¡¯s father is, we wouldn¡¯t just randomly find you a husband to help."


    They were clear on one thing: Ji Yu¡¯s happiness was the most important.


    Who could say what a man might turn out to be in the future?


    "Yuyu, this child is innocent, after all. If you want to keep him, it¡¯spletely understandable."


    Madam Ji gently ran her hand over Ji Yu¡¯s belly, her eyes filled with tenderness for the child. "I know what¡¯s weighing on your mind, but since this child is already here, isn¡¯t it also a little surprise? If you want to keep him, then don¡¯t hesitate."


    She hoped Ji Yu could follow her heart.


    Ji Yu was moved by this warmth. "Mom, thank you."


    All her lingering doubts seemed to have nearly dissolved after this conversation with Madam Ji.


    She now felt much clearer about what she needed to do moving forward.


    "Silly girl, this is just my advice. What you choose to do next is up to you. It¡¯s your decision whether to keep the child or not, but we¡¯ll always be here to help."


    There was no way they¡¯d abandon her in this situation.


    Ji Yu leaned against Madam Ji¡¯s shoulder, feeling theforting warmth of her mother.


    Was this what it felt like to be a mother?


    She was beginning to feel reluctant to give up on the child.


    "Now that you¡¯re about to be a mom, go get some proper rest."


    Madam Ji stroked Ji Yu¡¯s hair and urged her to head back to her room.


    By this point, Ji Yu had made up her mind. Moving forward, she¡¯d just coexist peacefully with Gu Qixiao. Even if he couldn¡¯t know that the child was his, at the very least, she could try to be amicable with him.


    But little did she expect that Gu Qixiao would pull a big stunt.


    "Sister Yu, President Gu is in your office."


    Tian gently reminded Ji Yu.


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t think much of it, assuming that Gu Qixiao was just up to his usual antics.


    "I got it." She was already prepared to deal with another round of roses.


    But this time, Gu Qixiao clearly switched up his tactics.


    "Yu, these are all for you."


    Looking at the room filled with flowers, Ji Yu¡¯s temples throbbed slightly. She felt like the sheer sight of it was suffocating her.


    "Are you nning to open a flower shop in my office?"


    Was this really how he nned to pursue someone?


    Just as Feng Qinqin had mentioned before¡ªhe really didck any sense.


    "Do you think anyone would actually like this?"


    Frankly, it was a relief if people didn¡¯t outright hate such behavior.


    Gu Qixiao frowned, clearly unable to see the problem. "You don¡¯t like it? You said you don¡¯t like roses. Today, I brought other flowers for you to choose from. I can bring different ones next time."


    All these flowers had been flown in from abroad.


    But as Ji Yu looked at them, she didn¡¯t feel the least bit touched¡ªjust an overwhelming urge to hit someone.


    "When I said I don¡¯t like roses, did I mean I dislike just roses?"


    She was seething.


    Yet nothing about this seemed to get through to Gu Qixiao.


    "Surely, it¡¯s not me you dislike."


    He seemed utterly confident.


    Ji Yu gave him a sarcastic smile. "What an unfortunate coincidence. You¡¯re the person I dislike the most."


    And with all these flowers crammed into one ce, Ji Yu could feel a sneezeing on. "Get all this out of here, now!"


    If he left these any longer, was he trying to kill her?


    Ji Yu was on the verge of breaking down.


    There were plenty of onlookers outside, thinking that this President Gu had truly gone too far.


    "Since these are for you, it¡¯s up to you what to do with them. If you don¡¯t like them, give everyone a bouquet. I¡¯ll stop sending flowers, but you absolutely can¡¯t refuse to have dinner with me."


    He had already nned this out. Even if Ji Yu didn¡¯t like the flowers, she would enjoy spending time with him.


    Ji Yu¡¯s head throbbed with annoyance.


    At just the right moment, Lu Xingchen came to see Ji Yu, only to walk into this scene.


    "Yu, what¡¯s this?"


    His gaze fell on Gu Qixiao, curiosity and scrutiny in his eyes as he tried to figure out what this man was up to.


    Gu Qixiao let him stare, having already identified Lu Xingchen as a rival. Ji Yu might not have noticed it, but as her pursuer, Gu Qixiao could clearly tell who hispetitor was.


    "A stranger." Ji Yu¡¯s words were ruthless, as if she didn¡¯t know Gu Qixiao at all.


    Gu Qixiao looked somewhat hurt, his eyes filled with disbelief as he gazed at Ji Yu. "Yu, if you don¡¯t like the flowers, I can bring different ones. But how could you say you don¡¯t like me?"


    He thought about everything that had happened between them, convinced that Ji Yu was just being stubborn and denying her true feelings.


    Truth be told, Ji Yu¡¯s feelings toward Gu Qixiao had been slowly improving over time. Seeing his expression now, she found herself struggling a bit.


    "You need to calm down. President Gu, sometimes what you think is affection might just be an illusion. Besides, you haven¡¯t resolved your family issues yet, so don¡¯t go looking for trouble elsewhere¡ªit¡¯ll just make things difficult for others."


    She didn¡¯t want to get entangled in petty disputes with Song Xuan.


    Fighting over a man? Just not worth it.


    At the mention of Song Xuan, Gu Qixiao immediately understood what Ji Yu was referring to. His face grew tense. "I can exin about Song Xuan, but you¡ª"


    Before he could finish, his hand moved instinctively, pulling Ji Yu to the side.


    A knife nicked Gu Qixiao¡¯s arm, leaving a shallow cut.


    Only then did everyone notice that somehow, a stranger had snuck into the crowd.


    The woman, realizing she¡¯d been exposed, tried to run but was swiftly subdued by Lu Xingchen, who grabbed her arm.


    "Who are you? Why are you trying to hurt Yu?"


    Lu Xingchen couldn¡¯t make sense of the situation. Concerned that Ji Yu might be in further danger, he stood protectively in front of her.

 Chapter 78 Disfigurement

    <h4>Chapter 78: Chapter 78 Disfigurement</h4>


    The woman, caught, hastily used her hand to cover the mask on her face.


    "This is what Ji Yu owes me!"


    She had long stopped caring about anger, but what Ji Yu had done before, she would never forget in this lifetime.


    Ji Yu frowned, not knowing who this person was.


    At the very least, from the voice just now, she absolutely didn¡¯t recognize this woman.


    "Are you familiar with me?"


    A person like this should have left some impression on Ji Yu.


    The woman let out a cold snort. "Doctor Ji, you often forget people, but I will never forget you."


    Ji Yu frowned, realizing that anyone who called her Doctor Ji was likely to have had prior treatments with their clinic. Her gaze held a hint of scrutiny.


    "Have you been treated here by me before?"


    Under normal circumstances, a face should have resumed its normal appearance after treatment.


    Why, then, did it seem as if they bore some deep, irreconcble hatred?


    "It¡¯s because of you that my face was ruined, and you still have the audacity to deny it!"


    She red viciously at Ji Yu. In an unguarded moment, a small piece of skin became visible¡ªa scar that had entirely disfigured her face.


    Yet, Ji Yu had absolutely no recollection of this woman.


    "Take off your mask and let me have a look. I don¡¯t know who you are, but if it was a surgery conducted at our clinic, there absolutely would not have been any issues."


    She had immense confidence in her skills.


    Still, something about this situation felt off; she couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that these people were deliberately stirring up trouble.


    The woman stubbornly refused to remove her mask. Left with no recourse, Ji Yu called the police. "I¡¯ll first take Gu Qixiao to get his wound treated. You can exin everything once the police arrive."


    Lu Xingchen wanted to go with her, but Ji Yu stopped him. "I can handle this alone. I need you to take care of things here, Brother Xingchen. Also, you can¡¯t afford to be involved."


    He was a public figure, and it was better for him to steer clear of such matters.


    To Ji Yu, medical disputes like this were not rare. However, even when they urred, she would never shirk responsibility.


    Gu Qixiao, seeing Ji Yu¡¯s serious demeanor, couldn¡¯t help butfort her. "I trust your skills. This woman¡¯s disfigurement has nothing to do with you."


    He knew how capable Ji Yu was; there was absolutely no way her surgery would cause someone¡¯s face to end up like this.


    Ji Yu appeared a little hesitant. "To be honest, I can¡¯t be entirely sure what¡¯s going on here. After all, I¡¯ve performed an overwhelming number of surgeries."


    Deep down, she started to wonder if she could have made some kind of technical error in the past.


    "But I believe in you." When Gu Qixiao thought about Ji Yu¡¯s meticulous approach to surgery, he was convinced she couldn¡¯t possibly have made a mistake.


    Ji Yu was slightly surprised. "You certainly have faith in me."


    Still, she leaned toward the possibility that this woman¡¯s face had undergone some other procedure afterward, leading to this condition.


    More time would be needed to investigate the truth of the matter.


    After tending to Gu Qixiao¡¯s wound, Ji Yu couldn¡¯t help but feel a pang of guilt.


    "Consider this incident a favor I owe you. In the future, if something like this happens, please don¡¯t act so impulsively."


    Who knew whether there was something wrong with the knife?


    Fortunately, this time it was just a minor wound.


    "How could there be something wrong with the knife?"


    "You don¡¯t know¡ªthere are some really malicious people out there who enjoy using such methods to torment others." She wasn¡¯t sure how to exin it, but she hinted at her concerns.


    "If the knife isn¡¯t clean, it can easily transmit diseases."


    Such urrences were not umon.


    Especially when dealing with extreme individuals who were prone to this kind of behavior.


    These were the types ofplications Ji Yu dreaded most.


    Gu Qixiao understood what she meant, but in that moment, his body had moved faster than his brain. He hadn¡¯t considered these risks at all.


    "As long as you¡¯re okay," he said.


    This time, he didn¡¯t seek credit for his actions. He was simply worried about Ji Yu¡¯s safety.


    "Thank you for what you did today, but please don¡¯t use these kinds of tactics to pursue me. Honestly, I haven¡¯t thought about getting married again."


    Gu Qixiao was aware of her divorce, although he likely didn¡¯t realize that it was he who had been her ex-husband.


    "Not considering marriage doesn¡¯t mean you¡¯re unwilling. Maybe you¡¯re just temporarily disillusioned with the people around you. But who knows? Maybe I¡¯m the one you truly like."


    In this regard, Gu Qixiao was quite confident.


    "Alright, that¡¯s enough for now. We¡¯ll talk about thister. I need to head to the police station to figure out what¡¯s going on. If this has nothing to do with our clinic, I must demand justice."


    But before she even had a chance to go to the police station, she received a call from Lu Xingchen.


    "Yu, there seems to be something suspicious about this situation. The moment trouble started here, news of it was already leaked online. It¡¯s clear this was premeditated."


    The speed at which everything unfolded suggested that someone had meticulously nned it all in advance.


    Ji Yu frowned. "Can you find out who¡¯s behind this?"


    "No leads for now, but most of thements online are using your clinic¡¯s equipment of being faulty, saying there have been numerous problems."


    This was clearly targeting Ji Yu.


    Whether or not this specific individual had a realint, such allegations were bound to arise.


    Additionally, a wave of supposed victims of facial disfigurement had quickly surfaced online.


    Seeing this, Ji Yu gained new insight. "Looks like this person is merely the catalyst. Whether or not these disfigurements were caused by our clinic, these so-called victims are sure to garner sympathy."


    And public opinion would inevitably weigh against her.


    Gu Qixiao, reading the situation, couldn¡¯t help but frown. He was well aware of Ji Yu¡¯s exceptional skills, and there was no way she could be responsible for such blunders.


    "Someone is definitely orchestrating this. I¡¯ll arrange to have these online posts taken down immediately."


    He worried these usations would harm Ji Yu.


    Ji Yu frowned. "Not just yet. I want to see what the person behind this is really up to."


    She hadn¡¯t knowingly offended anyone recently.


    Who could possibly go to such lengths just to trouble her?


    Ji Yu was filled with suspicion but had already mentally prepared herself.


    "There must be others involved in this. I¡¯m not afraid of being criticized. If they want to curse at me, let them. All I care about is uncovering who¡¯s pulling the strings."


    While such situations were unavoidable, the root cause had to be identified.


    Seeing the determination in Ji Yu¡¯s expression, Gu Qixiao felt a surge of understanding. "I¡¯ll help you."


    He cared for Ji Yu deeply and would never allow her to face danger.


    "You don¡¯t need to intervene. I can handle this myself."


    She had her own approach to dealing with such matters.


    Hearing this, Gu Qixiao¡¯s eyebrows furrowed with helplessness. "Sometimes, you should look at the support around you. You don¡¯t have to bear everything alone."


    He fully understood Ji Yu¡¯s mindset.

 Chapter 79 Strong

    <h4>Chapter 79: Chapter 79 Strong</h4>


    "This is a matter of principle. Since I¡¯ve chosen to be a stic surgeon, I¡¯ve already prepared myself to face public opinion. But since I didn¡¯t perform the surgery, I absolutely won¡¯t admit to it."


    As they spoke, the two arrived at the police station.


    The situation here was rather unfavorable.


    "This youngdy indeed underwent another surgery previously, and we haven¡¯t found evidence that she had any procedures done at another hospital."


    So these usations are valid.


    The atmosphere became awkward for a moment.


    Ji Yu frowned as she looked at the name,pletely devoid of any recollection.


    "But I am very certain that none of my patients have experienced a situation like this. Cases like this are extremely rare, and if I had handled it, I would definitely remember."


    She hadplete confidence in her memory.


    "Miss Ji, it¡¯s possible your memory is faulty, but the information on these records is urate."


    The police also understood that situations like this were not umon; it only depended on whether the doctor had a conscience.


    Ji Yu furrowed her brows. "Impossible. I don¡¯t believe there could be such a case. I hope you¡¯ll continue investigating thoroughly, or at least confirm the true identity of this youngdy."


    At the very least, they should confirm if she really is Tang Tang.


    "Alright, we¡¯ll continue verifying, but one way or another, there¡¯s no escaping her intentional assault in this incident."


    While they sympathized with the previous stic surgery ident, it happened so long ago that it was impossible to investigate the details clearly.


    Ji Yu also wished to say a few words to this Tang Tang.


    Tang Tang looked at Ji Yu with hatred in her eyes, fully embodying the attitude of a victim confronting the doctor responsible.


    But Ji Yu remained absolutely convinced that this wasn¡¯t her doing.


    "Who sent you here? If you tell me now, we might still be able to talk."


    She wanted to see if Tang Tang would speak the truth, but clearly, Tang Tang had done her homework beforehand.


    She looked at Ji Yu with disdain. "I don¡¯t understand what you¡¯re talking about."


    Unfortunately, it was natural for Ji Yu not to remain calm in a situation like this.


    "Oh really? You don¡¯t know? You¡¯ll know very soon. I¡¯m curious to see what your reaction will be then."


    She didn¡¯t say another word, choosing instead to wait for Tang Tang to eventually reveal the truth herself.


    Besides, the person¡¯s true identity as Tang Tang still needed further verification.


    After returning home, Ji Yu didn¡¯t sit idly by. Instead, she began searching through patient records from several years ago to see if someone like this truly existed.


    "Don¡¯t you n to take a rest?" Gu Qixiao understood her to some extent and decided to help search alongside her.


    But the information about Tang Tang had already beenpletely destroyed. Even after scouring all the records, they couldn¡¯t find a single shred of evidence regarding this patient.


    "It¡¯s possible they were prepared in advance. Why don¡¯t you check if there¡¯s another way, or see if your hospital¡¯s previous records are missing anything."


    "Absolutely impossible," Ji Yu was confident in the integrity of her prior records.


    Moreover, these documents were under her supervision; there was no possibility of negligence.


    "These records are all critical. Regardless of which patient, they¡¯re always our responsibility. If there¡¯s a subsequent issue with their facial procedures, we handle it, provided it¡¯s within the bounds of protocol."


    She had never failed before¡ªhow could there be a mistake now?


    "Perhaps someone took Tang Tang¡¯s files ahead of time?"


    This seemed the most likely scenario.


    But Ji Yu couldn¡¯t think of anyone around her who might do such a thing.


    She seriously doubted the authenticity of this matter.


    As it turned out, the situation this time was somewhat different from what Ji Yu had imagined.


    Meanwhile, the incident was escting rapidly online.


    [No updates for so long¡ªdoes this mean it¡¯s basically confirmed to be true?]


    [I think it¡¯s probably true; otherwise, how could there still be no rebuttal?]


    [But didn¡¯t Lu Yingdi recover pretty well before?]


    [Those are just isted cases.]


    The online discussion was heated, as though the public had already decided Ji Yu had performed botched surgeries.


    Ji Yu couldn¡¯t find a single clue and had no idea how to prove her innocence.


    "Let me help you remove all the online posts."


    Gu Qixiao, worried about Ji Yu¡¯s exhaustion, wanted to assist, but Ji Yu refused.


    "No. Now that the situation has escted to this point, simply removing the posts won¡¯t resolve it. I suspect they¡¯ll have more in store for us."


    Though she looked troubled, she couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that Tang Tang was hiding something.


    "You don¡¯t need to stay here with me. I¡¯ll be fine. They can¡¯t do anything to me other than talk online."


    She didn¡¯t want to owe Gu Qixiao any more favors.


    Thinking about what Gu Qixiao had done earlier gave her even more of a headache.


    "You¡¯re still pregnant¡ªyou shouldn¡¯t overexert yourself."


    Gu Qixiao couldn¡¯t feel at ease leaving Ji Yu alone, especially after what had just happened with the knife incident. How could he possibly rx?


    "I¡¯ll take you home. Since there¡¯s nothing here in the records, we shouldn¡¯t dwell on it."


    But Ji Yu was unwilling to give up just yet.


    "Yu, Mom was worried about your situation and sent me to get you." Ji Yuanzhou, who had been listening nearby for a while, knew perfectly well that this man didn¡¯t have good intentions.


    He stepped forward and directly grabbed Ji Yu¡¯s hand.


    Ji Yu was surprised to see Ji Yuanzhou. "Brother, why are you here?"


    "Mom saw the news online, worried you might get into trouble, and told me to bring you home immediately."


    The speed at which the news spread was fast, and the Ji family parents had always been closely monitoring updates about Ji Yu, making them particrly sensitive to matters like this.


    Ji Yu felt a little embarrassed.


    "I made Mom and Dad worry. It¡¯s actually nothing serious¡ªjust a case from years ago. But I don¡¯t have any records of it on my end; I feel like there must be some misunderstanding here."


    Clearly, the Ji family hadplete faith in Ji Yu.


    "We all know how meticulous you are with surgeries; it¡¯s absolutely impossible for you to make such errors."


    He patted Ji Yu¡¯s head, hoping she wouldn¡¯t let this situation stress her out too much.


    He didn¡¯t even nce at Gu Qixiao, as though the man didn¡¯t exist.


    For a moment, Gu Qixiao wasn¡¯t sure what to make of the rtionship between Ji Yu and Ji Yuanzhou, or why they were meeting.


    Moreover, they seemed surprisingly close.


    "Yu, are you nning to keep searching?"


    Fearing for Ji Yu¡¯s well-being, Gu Qixiao voiced his concern.


    But Ji Yu shook her head. "Since my brother is here to take me home, let¡¯s put this aside for now. I estimate the police will have an update tomorrow."

 Chapter 80: The Mastermind Behind the Scenes

    <h4>Chapter 80: Chapter 80: The Mastermind Behind the Scenes</h4>


    She figured that this time, the breakthrough for the matter would still have to be found in Tang Tang.


    But she couldn¡¯t let her family worry.


    Her attitude towards Ji Yuanzhou was clearly different from that towards Gu Qixiao.


    Gu Qixiao felt a bitter sting in his heart, "Yu, is this really your biological brother?"


    "Sort of. Do you have anything else to say?" Ji Yu frowned as she looked at him.


    "Since when did you have a brother?"


    This was something Gu Qixiao just couldn¡¯t let go of.


    But Ji Yu found it ridiculous. Isn¡¯t having a brother apletely normal thing?


    "Well, you also have a non-biological ¡¯sweet little sister,¡¯ don¡¯t you? Isn¡¯t that just as normal?"


    The retort left Gu Qixiao utterly speechless.


    He didn¡¯t even know how to defend himself.


    Standing there, watching them leave, Gu Qixiao finally came to his senses. When Ji Yu previously called Song Xuan his "mistress," didn¡¯t this so-called "brother" carry a simr subtext?


    But by the time he tried to catch up, it was already toote.


    All he could see was the tail end of Ji Yu¡¯s car driving off.


    And Ji Yu felt no guilt about it whatsoever.


    "Is something going on between you and Gu Qixiao?"


    Ji Yuanzhou didn¡¯t know what Ji Yu was truly thinking, but he was sure that someone Ji Yu genuinely disliked wouldn¡¯t receive this kind of treatment.


    Anyone she disliked wasn¡¯t even worth engaging with¡ªevery word would be a waste of time.


    "Our rtionship is pretty ordinary. But I do owe him thanks for today."


    Ji Yu¡¯s stance on the matter was crystal clear. She had already rejected him before¡ªbesides, he fathered the child in her belly. It couldn¡¯t possibly be apletely irrelevant rtionship.


    Ji Yuanzhou didn¡¯t know what he was feeling deep down¡ªhe just sensed that Ji Yu¡¯s calm demeanor might not be entirely genuine.


    After the two of them returned home, the Ji family parents quickly came forward to console Ji Yu.


    "Yu, this isn¡¯t your fault; we believe you absolutely couldn¡¯t have done something like this. And even if there is an issue, the fact that she hasn¡¯t contacted you for so long suggests something¡¯s off with her."


    They wholeheartedly believed in Ji Yu.


    They also suspected there was more to this situation¡ªsome kind of hidden agenda.


    Ji Yu sighed, "Mom, Dad, this still needs to be investigated thoroughly. I don¡¯t even know when Tang Tang became a client. I¡¯ve already looked into it, but I couldn¡¯t find her records¡ªsomeone might¡¯ve deliberately removed them."


    At this point, with no concrete evidence, resolving this issue was going to take time.


    Hearing this, the Ji family parents grew concerned that Ji Yu might get bulliedter. "In that case, why don¡¯t you rest at home for a while? Let your brother handle these matters."


    Ji Yuanzhou, unexpectedly mentioned, was caught off guard, but he was willing to help.


    However, Ji Yu turned down their offer. "No need. I already know how I¡¯ll deal with it, and besides, my brother already has a lot to handle."


    What she could solve on her own didn¡¯t need to involve her family.


    In any case, the way everything was ying outtely made it clear that the target was her; she wanted to uncover who was orchestrating this from behind the scenes.


    On Lu Xingchen¡¯s end, staring at the scorn and hate online, his expression grew grim.


    "Ancestor, you absolutely cannot get involved in this. You must be mindful of your position. If your fans see you makingments about this, it¡¯s bound to cause problems."


    Those around him grew anxious, worried that Lu Xingchen might act impulsively and speak up for Ji Yu.


    But Lu Xingchen had long been ready. Without hesitation, he released a statement directly.


    "I just won¡¯t stand by while they continue insulting Yu. This issue is absolutely not Yu¡¯s fault."


    He had thought it all over long ago and was determined to protect Ji Yu.


    His assistant and manager were scared out of their wits, scrambling to check online reactions¡ªsure enough, many people were criticizing Lu Xingchen for mindlessly picking sides.


    "Ancestor, do you realize what you¡¯ve done? Can¡¯t you see how this could impact your future?"


    "But I can¡¯t ignore Yu¡¯s plight." His expression was resolutely serious.


    He stopped caring about thements online, tossing his phone aside and getting ready to sleep.


    "Fine, our great Movie Emperor Lu is truly a hopeless romantic."


    Unfortunately, not everyone knew about this.


    Ji Yu, for instance, had no idea any of this had happened. After she returned home, the Ji family parents, worried she¡¯d feel upset seeing the news, simply confiscated her phone.


    Thus, Ji Yu remained entirely unaware of the developments.


    "Brother, just give me back my phone. I can¡¯t have you all treating me like a child who needs monitoring."


    Her expression was one of resigned helplessness. She wanted to check how the situation was escting.


    Ji Yuanzhou let out a sigh. "Don¡¯t me me¡ªit was Mom¡¯s idea. If you want it back, why don¡¯t you plead your case to her directly?"


    The way he looked at Ji Yu carried a trace of worry, but he understood that staying out of this matter was the best course of action for her.


    "That¡¯s not the point¡ªthis incident is clearly targeting me. Even without my phone, I can¡¯t avoid it. Brother, please, just help me out here."


    Ji Yu looked at Ji Yuanzhou with pitiful eyes.


    In that moment, Ji Yuanzhou felt like he was transported back to when Ji Yu was still a little girl. Whenever she made a mistake, she¡¯d look at him with the exact same expression.


    He found himself unable to stand firm. "Fine, suit yourself. I¡¯m heading to bed."


    He didn¡¯t know what else to say or do.


    He almost bolted from the scene in his retreat.


    Ji Yu helplessly watched as he fled, her mind racing with thoughts about how best to solve the issue once and for all.


    "I wonder how Gu Qixiao is handling things."


    In truth, Gu Qixiao had long held suspicions about someone but hadn¡¯t acted on them just yet.


    When Song Xuan saw Gu Qixiao suddenly return home, she grew visibly uneasy. "Xiao, why do you have time toe home today?"


    Her heart was leaping with anxiety, afraid Gu Qixiao had found out about her actions, yet equally desperate to prevent him from leaving again.


    "Song Xuan, did you do something?"


    His gaze carried a sharp hint of usation as itnded on Song Xuan.


    Song Xuan¡¯s face nearly broke under pressure. "Xiao, what are you even saying? I¡¯ve been home every day¡ªwhat could I possibly have done?"


    She wanted to extricate herself from the situation as quickly as possible, knowing full well it might bring more troubleter.


    But Gu Qixiao¡¯s suspicions about her behavior only deepened.


    Since the moment Song Xuan began acting overly considerate, it had felt like something had changed. "Are you sure you have no idea what I¡¯m talking about? Song Xuan, of all people, you should know how much I hate being deceived."


    He couldn¡¯t tolerate the feeling of being lied to.


    He was growing increasingly doubtful of Song Xuan¡¯s actions.


    But Song Xuan firmly denied having anything to do with it.


    "Xiao, you can¡¯t treat me this way just because you like someone else! You told me I was your sister and that you¡¯d look out for me forever!"

 Chapter 81 Resentment

    <h4>Chapter 81: Chapter 81 Resentment</h4>


    Since Song Xuan had made up her mind not to admit to this matter, she wouldn¡¯t waver on this issue no matter what.


    Sure enough, after hearing what she said, Gu Qixiao¡¯s expression shifted slightly. "This is indeed my fault. I also hope it¡¯s not you. Song Xuan, don¡¯t let me down."


    There was a steadfastness in his gaze as he looked at Song Xuan.


    But Song Xuan dared not meet his eyes.


    She had orchestrated this for so long¡ªthere was no way she would let Ji Yu get away with this so easily.


    However, the public opinion online remained consistently critical.


    When Ji Yu picked up her phone, she saw that Lu Xingchen had spoken up on her behalf.


    "Brother, there¡¯s no need for any of you to intervene in this matter, not even Lu Xingchen. He¡¯s being attacked online, let alone the rest of you."


    She couldn¡¯t afford to jeopardize thepany¡¯s stock value.


    Ji Yuanzhou frowned. "But..."


    "No buts, brother. I know very well that the people behind this are targeting me. I won¡¯t let you all bear this risk with me."


    She had to find out who was pulling the strings behind the scenes.


    Soon, the police sent a notice, requesting Ji Yu to make a personal appearance at the station.


    When Ji Yu arrived, both the police and Tang Tang¡¯s family members were present.


    Seeing Ji Yu, their emotions visibly red up.


    "It¡¯s you who ruined my daughter!"


    Ji Yu avoided their attempts to grab her. "Please take a good look at the report before saying anything. I don¡¯t know what happened to your daughter, but I can assure you there was no mistake in my work."


    This was the confidence Ji Yu had in her own skills.


    The police adhered to Ji Yu¡¯s previous suggestion and conducted an analysis. The results confirmed that the girl was indeed the biological daughter of Tang Tang¡¯s parents.


    "Their biological daughter? Do they only have this one daughter?"


    "Their younger daughter, Tang Xin, passed away in Septemberst year." They had investigated everything thoroughly.


    It was clear that they had anticipated this situation for some time.


    Ji Yu frowned. "If that¡¯s the case, I request an injury examination for this so-called Tang Tang. Wounds can tell their own story. The age of the injuries on her face can be tested."


    A surgery done two years ago, with issues arising muchter¡ªit couldn¡¯t possibly be traced back to her.


    Hearing this, Tang Tang¡¯s parents grew even more agitated. "You just don¡¯t want topensate my daughter, do you? What kind of sin did my daughtermit to encounter such a heartless doctor as you?"


    Ji Yu frowned, unable to understand their hysterics. "I¡¯m merely protecting my rightful interests. You don¡¯t believe what I say, and I don¡¯t believe what you say. The only fair solution is to rely on testing."


    But, unfortunately, they seemed incapable of grasping this logic.


    As they moved as if to push Ji Yu, she remainedposed. "Go ahead and try. But let me remind you, I¡¯m pregnant. Think carefully before you act."


    They were older, she was carrying a child¡ªsurely she warranted some consideration.


    Old, weak, pregnant, or disabled¡ªshe fit at least one category.


    At this, they hesitated, casting uneasy nces at Ji Yu.


    "You youngdy, since you¡¯re about to be a mother, you should understand how it feels when a child suffers. How could you do something so cruel?"


    Ji Yu raised an eyebrow. "Then you should start by telling me¡ªis this person truly Tang Tang? Are the scars on her face really from my hospital? If so, why didn¡¯t youe to me about it back then?"


    She could admit to this matter.


    But they would need to provide evidence.


    Her demand was that simple.


    They seemed incapable of understanding her words, leaving her no choice but to wait and see how they¡¯d respond.


    The police also suggested conducting an injury examination.


    "My daughter is already like this, and you still want to humiliate her further? If she does something foolish because of this, what will we do then?"


    The elderly couple wept bitterly, evidently having prepared in advance for this show of tears.


    But, unfortunately, their tears held no weight for Ji Yu. "What you said is quite funny¡ªher emotional hurt counts, but what about mine?"


    She couldn¡¯t understand the logic of these people.


    "Let¡¯s proceed as discussed earlier. If this person is indeed Tang Tang, and the scars were caused by another hospital, I will fully cover all subsequent expenses for her treatment."


    There was no need to turn this into such a spectacle.


    Seeing that Tang Tang was about to be taken away, her parents rushed to grab the police officers.


    "If you dare take my daughter away today, I¡¯ll go online and tell everyone you¡¯ve all been bribed by Ji Yu. Let¡¯s see how you¡¯ll deal with that!"


    The elderly couple, uncaring of their own dignity, was prepared to make a scene.


    Witnessing this, Ji Yu realized that even without an injury examination, it was already apparent that something was off.


    "Since you refuse, why not just tell me who put you up to this? For now, we can set aside Tang Tang¡¯s charges of intentional harm. But are you aware of the price you¡¯ll pay for ndering me?"


    They likely had no understanding of the consequences of their actions.


    But Ji Yu wouldn¡¯t allow herself to be bullied so easily.


    "My reputation is one thing. Then there¡¯s the hospital¡¯s financial loss. You should know that our hospital¡¯s reputation has always been ster. With the damage you¡¯ve done, someone has topensate for it."


    Ji Yuid out the ounts, one by one.


    The elderly couple looked dazed and overwhelmed, the sheer size of the potential financial repercussions finally sinking in.


    "You¡¯re spouting nonsense! This whole thing is obviously your fault! Your hospital is despicable!"


    "Thene with me for an injury assessment. Isn¡¯t that an easy decision to make?" Ji Yu remained seated, watching their reaction, curious as to how long they could hold out.


    "There¡¯s no point in continuing like this. You have two options to choose from."


    Which path to take would depend on whether they had the rity to weigh their choices.


    Hearing this, their expressions darkened further.


    Apparently, they were reluctant to face such substantial financial losses.


    But conducting the injury examination would expose everything as well.


    "What gives you the right to drag me into an injury examination? We have the medical records from back then. Do you still want to deny them?"


    At this, Ji Yu couldn¡¯t help suspecting that there was a mole in the hospital¡ªhow else could such records go missing?


    "Rest assured, your evidence will remain intact. I only want to know when the scars on her face were caused. Is that so difficult?"


    With current technology, determining such things was practically effortless.

 Chapter 82 Examination of Injuries

    <h4>Chapter 82: Chapter 82 Examination of Injuries</h4>


    "Do you all think I¡¯m that easy to bully? I¡¯m someone who prefers to resolve things with reason, but if you¡¯re going to use such underhanded tricks, there¡¯s no way I¡¯d ever agree."


    She had never been bullied before.


    The expressions on the family¡¯s faces became conflicted upon hearing her statement, clearly anxious about what the injury assessment might reveal.


    "Rx. I¡¯ll only hold you ountable for the damage you¡¯ve caused. Actually, your condition is still treatable. It¡¯s just a pity that the method you chose was all wrong."


    Ji Yu had already examined her face before. After identifying the issue, it was entirely possible to treat it, but they had chosen such a despicable approach¡ªleaving no chance for recovery afterward.


    Tang Tang¡¯s expression looked utterly incredulous.


    "Are you saying my face can still be treated?"


    "Of course. I¡¯ve said before that there¡¯s no such thing as failure in my hands," Ji Yu replied confidently.


    After all, there had been plenty of precedents. Surely, they weren¡¯t still doubting her ability?


    "Impossible! My sister¡¯s face waspletely ruined in the end. What you¡¯re saying must be a lie."


    Atst, she admitted she wasn¡¯t Tang Tang.


    But even so, Ji Yu would never agree to treat her.


    "Officer, there¡¯s no need for an injury assessment now, is there?"


    The police officers, who were already stunned, listened as Ji Yu effortlessly coaxed out the truth. They were now curious about what kind of people they were dealing with.


    "Hurry up and exin truthfully¡ªwhy did you impersonate Tang Tang? And what¡¯s the story with your face?"


    Unfortunately, all Tang Xin wanted at that moment was to talk to Ji Yu.


    She stared at Ji Yu as though seeing a savior, pleading, "Miss Ji, please help me. I¡¯ve lived with my face like this for so long. Everyone looks at me with ridicule¡ªI just can¡¯t take it anymore."


    Heaven knew how much she longed for her face to be restored.


    But Ji Yu¡¯s gaze at her was icy cold.


    "You could have gone through proper channels and waited your turn. But instead, you¡¯ve chosen this path, and this oue is what you deserve."


    Pitiful people always have something hateful about them. Ji Yu would never pity such individuals.


    She had no intention of getting further involved. The police would ensure she got an exnation.


    The officers detained the entire family. Yet Tang Xin, for reasons unknown, refused to speak.


    "If I can see Ji Yu, I¡¯ll tell you everything."


    Hope remained in her eyes.


    The officers were visibly exasperated. "You¡¯ve caused the hospital so much damage and nearly ruined its reputation. Why are you still fantasizing about saving your face?"


    Clearly, people should have some sense of self-awareness in situations like this.


    Yet she remained unwilling to ept reality.


    Ji Yu never returned to the police station after that.


    "How¡¯s the situation now?" Gu Qixiao asked. He knew things were mostly resolved after learning the woman wasn¡¯t Tang Xin.


    "It¡¯s over. They¡¯ve long exposed their issues. I won¡¯t pursue Tang Xin¡¯s matter further, but I must find the insider betraying the hospital."


    She massaged her temples, her stunning face showing traces of exhaustion.


    Evidently, pregnancy had been taking a toll on Ji Yu, though she had managed to persevere all the same.


    This entire ordeal served as a reminder: she couldn¡¯t afford to rx for even a moment.


    "There¡¯s no need for you to step in this time. I know what I should do."


    She wanted to unearth the person pulling strings behind this but couldn¡¯t bring Gu Qixiao along.


    "I can help you," Gu Qixiao said, distressed by her relentless hardship.


    "You can depend on me during times like this," he added, his gaze searing, as though intent on burning a mark into her heart.


    Ji Yu shook her head, refusing his offer of kindness.


    "You and I have no familial or emotional ties. Why should I rely on you? And why should I trouble someone else with something I can handle on my own?"


    She firmly believed that problems one could solve oneself should never involve others, no matter how close they were.


    "Gu Qixiao, whether it¡¯s because you¡¯re momentarily interested or for other reasons, I will never allow myself to feel anything for you."


    She had no desire to repeat what had happened in the past.


    Gu Qixiao¡¯s gaze grew wounded. Clearly, he did not want Ji Yu thinking this way.


    "It¡¯s not a passing fancy."


    Perhaps it began in that orphanage, when he saw how gentle Ji Yu was with the children. From then on, she became unforgettable to him.


    Perhaps it had started even earlier, though Ji Yu seemed entirely unaware.


    "I hope you can stay by my side. I can be your support. Why overthink something where both parties get what they need?"


    Gu Qixiao longed to help Ji Yu, but it seemed she was intent on pushing him away.


    She offered no response, but her furrowed brow and expressionless demeanor conveyed her impatience with the situation.


    On the way, neither of them spoke another word.


    When they reached the hospital entrance, there was indeed arge crowd gathered.


    The moment Ji Yu appeared, the crowd erupted with excitement.


    "Miss Ji, what¡¯s your rtionship with Lu Xingchen?"


    "Miss Ji, do you have anyment on usations that your hospital disfigures its patients?"


    "And President Gu¡ªwhat¡¯s your rtionship with her? Rumors are circting that your hospital only operates because of influential patrons. Is that true?"


    Clearly, everyone was deeply curious about Ji Yu¡¯s private affairs.


    But Ji Yu had no intention of responding.


    "I have nothing to say about your questions. The police will release a statement soon, and you¡¯ll know everything then."


    She didn¡¯t want to create trouble for anyone.


    As for Lu Xingchen¡¯s situation, Ji Yu was unsure how to handle it, especially since his PR team hadn¡¯t contacted her yet.


    Anything she said casually could potentially affect Lu Xingchen.


    "Miss Ji, are you evading responsibility?"


    "Yes, Miss Ji. Are you refusing to address the online allegations because you¡¯re guilty or because they¡¯re true?"


    A flood of microphones was practically shoved into Ji Yu¡¯s face.


    Unable to watch further, Gu Qixiao stepped forward to block them all.


    "Please show some respect when you speak. This matter has nothing to do with you, and the police will make an announcement soon. Why are you in such a rush?"


    His expression was ice-cold.


    With his naturally stern demeanor and the Gu family¡¯s elite status backing him, none dared confront him recklessly.


    "And as for the baseless ims you¡¯re making, you¡¯ll need to bear legal responsibility for your words."


    Gu Qixiao shielded Ji Yupletely, unwilling to spare even a nce at their ugly, twisted faces.


    The way they hounded Ji Yu, desperate to leech off her, was utterly repulsive.


    He didn¡¯t want her to endure such grievances any longer.

 Chapter 83 Endless Entanglement

    <h4>Chapter 83: Chapter 83 Endless Entanglement</h4>


    They seemed a bit intimidated after seeing Gu Qixiao, not daring to confront him as they did earlier.


    But Ji Yu understood; these people were only temporarily cowed and would definitely continue spreading rumors about the two of them once they got back.


    "Ignore them; let¡¯s take care of the important matters first."


    She still needed to investigate who the traitor in the hospital was.


    Such matters must result in immediate termination.


    Gu Qixiao was reasonably serious about this as well. "Alright."


    He shielded Ji Yu as they moved back, sensing how much this issue mattered to her.


    Faced with this situation, the reporters had no choice but to retreat for now.


    But internally, they¡¯d already drafted their stories about the events.


    Sure enough, after they left, gossip about the two of them began flying all over the inte.


    [So, Ji Yu actually has some real connections, huh?]


    [Your Film Emperor Lu goes through all this effort and still just ends up as a backup option?]


    [So... is this actually real or not? As a curious bystander, I¡¯m totally lost here.]


    [It¡¯s definitely real. Otherwise, why wouldn¡¯t they dare to answer? I really feel sorry for that poor girl.]


    Ji Yu showed no intention of bothering with these rumors.


    "I hope this incident doesn¡¯t affect you. Go ahead and arrange for all these stories to be taken down."


    She had long been used to this kind of storm of gossip, but Gu Qixiao still had hispany, and it would undoubtedly damage its reputation.


    Gu Qixiao frowned and said nothing, but it was clear from his expression that he didn¡¯t intend to simply resolve the matter this way.


    "Let¡¯s first investigate who went to the hospital. I know you¡¯ve been ready to take action for a while now."


    To be honest, Ji Yu had always been rather indifferent towards others, but today¡¯s incident was truly hard to handle.


    Tian, having caught wind of the matter, had already prepared the surveince footage. "Sister Yu, this will be tough to investigate. Thepany¡¯s surveince was cleaned out recently."


    Finding the culprit would depend somewhat on luck.


    Nheless, Ji Yu wasn¡¯t in a rush.


    After receiving the footage, she and Gu Qixiao spent half the day reviewing it in the office.


    Finally, they found the answer they were looking for.


    "Tian, go call everyone in the hospital together. I want to have a proper talk with them."


    Perhaps she had been too kind before, to the point that they dared to pull something like this.


    When Tian brought everyone over, many wore confused expressions on their faces.


    "Sister Yu, is there something you need from us?"


    "I¡¯ve brought you here today to discuss a recent issue. You should all know about Tang Tang¡¯s situation. Her file went missing, and it¡¯s absolutely the work of someone within our ranks." As she spoke, Ji Yu scanned the faces of everyone present.


    Watching their varied expressions, Ji Yu already had a good idea of the truth.


    "I¡¯ve just finished reviewing the surveince footage and identified the traitor. I hope you¡¯ll step forward yourself. Everyone else is free to leave."


    She sat at her desk, eyes fixed on theputer screen, projecting an air of having figured everything out.


    When she saw who was left behind, Ji Yu showed no surprise. "Haven¡¯t I treated you well enough?"


    She looked at the young woman in front of her, filled with countless unanswered questions.


    They¡¯d worked together for so long. How much hatred could there possibly be to push someone to such lengths?


    "Sister Yu..."


    She was nervous, timidly calling out Ji Yu¡¯s name.


    "Speak up. I¡¯m waiting for your exnation. To be honest, you¡¯re thest person I ever suspected."


    But some truths require no suspicion; they reveal everything on their own.


    Just like now, a possibility Ji Yu had never considered before.


    She couldn¡¯t understand why this person would do such a thing.


    "Sister Yu, I didn¡¯t mean to... I just needed the money. Besides, you¡¯re always so biased, I couldn¡¯t help it... and that¡¯s why I made this decision."


    Ji Yu raised her eyebrows, her delicate face full of disbelief. "You think I¡¯m biased?"


    They had worked together for so long, with the young woman always serving as Ji Yu¡¯s assistant, and yet now this usation was being made.


    For a moment, Ji Yu couldn¡¯t quite process it.


    After a pause, the young woman finally exined why she had done what she did.


    "Sister Yu, I really didn¡¯t mean any harm to you. Originally, they told me this would fall entirely on Tian... I just wanted to perform surgeries on my own."


    She had waited so long, to the point where she could wait no longer.


    Yet Ji Yu had seemingly failed to notice her ambition the entire time.


    So, she resorted to this method to drag Tian down.


    Ji Yu¡¯s lips parted slightly, her eyes full of disbelief. "You¡¯re telling me all of this... just because you wanted to lead surgeries?"


    But some people¡¯s skills simply weren¡¯t suited for leading surgeries.


    Ji Yu had observed Yang Liu¡¯s capabilities before¡ªher skills were subpar. With skills like that, why even bring up the idea of leading?


    "Yang Liu, your mindset is truly hard toprehend. Do you think we¡¯re denying you opportunities to harm you?"


    A doctorcking the necessary skills ming others for their failure¡ªit was utterly nonsensical.


    Ji Yu¡¯s gaze at Yang Liu was tinged with helplessness. But given the situation, Ji Yu no longer intended to let Yang Liu stay in the hospital.


    "Just tell me who instructed you to do this, and I won¡¯t send you to the police. But you must leave Chongsin."


    There was no way she¡¯d keep someone like this in her team.


    Yang Liu hesitated for a moment. "I¡¯ve never met this person. We¡¯ve onlymunicated via phone. She said if I did this, I could definitely take Tian down."


    She still wanted to stay here.


    Was there any ce more professional than Chongsin?


    Clearly, there wasn¡¯t.


    For the first time, Ji Yu doubted Yang Liu¡¯s intelligence. How had someone with such poor judgment stayed in their hospital for so long?


    "Don¡¯t you think there¡¯s something off about this whole thing?"


    Believing everything a stranger on the inte said¡ªit was pure recklessness.


    This was simply her own undoing.


    And Yang Liu didn¡¯t know what else to say.


    "I don¡¯t know..."


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t bother continuing the conversation with her and directly handed her a letter of resignation.


    "Your sry for this month will be transferred to your ount. Let¡¯s part on civil terms, but you¡¯re never allowed to work at Chongsin again."


    She had be numb to such situations.


    Hearing this decision, Yang Liu clearly wanted to say something more.


    But Ji Yu had already turned her back, clearly unwilling to engage with her further.


    From the side, Gu Qixiao observed the situation, already understanding in his heart that Ji Yu must feel hurt, even if she wasn¡¯t showing it outright.


    "You actually didn¡¯t have any hard evidence, did you?"


    She understood her own reputation at Chongsin. Just saying those words would make it impossible for anyone behind this to remain hidden.


    "No."


    Herputer screen waspletely nk¡ªthere was nothing on it. Yet she still managed to expose the traitor.


    "Maybe I¡¯ve just failed as a person."

 Chapter 84: Pondering

    <h4>Chapter 84: Chapter 84: Pondering</h4>


    The actions of the people under you¡ªwhat they¡¯ve done¡ªit only shows how crazy this world can be.


    "I don¡¯t think these matters have anything to do with you. It¡¯s normal for you not to understand their motives."


    Usually, only the incapable sympathize with people like Yang Liu.


    Being unable to rise to a higher position just ends up disappointing others.


    Ji Yu simply stared at everything before her, feeling a tinge of sorrow in her heart.


    "Yeah, I don¡¯t know why they think like that either. But no matter how it went, I still have to thank you for what you did today."


    She was genuinely grateful to Gu Qixiao for his help.


    But gratitude can never equate to feelings.


    "Don¡¯t misunderstand my stance¡ªI haven¡¯t promised you anything. There¡¯s no way I¡¯ll end up with you."


    She still had to think about the child growing inside her.


    This time, Gu Qixiao remained calm; he had long expected this oue. It only meant he still had to keep trying.


    "Now that this matter is resolved, you should go and rest. You don¡¯t look well."


    Being pregnant in the first ce meant she shouldn¡¯t exert herself this much.


    Ji Yu frowned, knowing deep down her body might indeed be reaching its limit.


    "I¡¯ll go back, so you don¡¯t have to worry about me."


    Otherwise, it would only create a debt of too much personal favor.


    Soon, the police released an announcement.


    ["Is it just my poor eyesight? Wasn¡¯t Tang Tang already dead? And the one who reported the case is Tang Xin?"]


    ["What kind of body-double trope is this? Still, it¡¯s admittedly not easy to figure out."]


    ["Should I trust the police, or the victim? Could there be capital influence behind this?"]


    ["Trust the police. This case was dramatic from the start¡ªyou guys didn¡¯t notice that?"]


    Maybe they did notice but just didn¡¯t want to admit it.


    Ji Yu nced at these updates while sitting in the car, not showing much of a reaction.


    "You seem quite ustomed to these sorts of things."


    Gu Qixiao couldn¡¯t help but wonder what kind of person could remain so calm in such situations. Had Ji Yu already endured this kind of treatment before?


    "The one thing I fear least is this kind of talk. If they came up with fresher dirty tricks, maybe I¡¯d start to feel nervous."


    She could never allow public opinion to dictate her feelings or make her feel wronged.


    "In the end, these matters are simple¡ªjust some astroturfers stirring the pot. I¡¯ve already got someone investigating who hired them."


    She was determined to find out who was pulling the strings behind the scenes.


    Gu Qixiao couldn¡¯t help but feel his heartbeat quicken as he watched Ji Yu¡¯s fearless demeanor.


    Perhaps what he liked most was Ji Yu¡¯s carefree attitude¡ªher refusal to act beholden to anything.


    "Don¡¯t look at me with that expression. I¡¯ve said it before¡ªthere¡¯s absolutely no possibility between the two of us."


    Ji Yu felt a chill run down her scalp under his intense gaze.


    But Gu Qixiao seemed unfazed.


    When they arrived at the Ji family home, he even had the audacity to ask if Ji Yu might invite him inside.


    "Oh, give me a break. My parents wouldn¡¯t even remotely wee you."


    This ex-husband of hers trulycked self-awareness.


    Though back when they were married, her parents had never met him, so it hadn¡¯t mattered much.


    "Yu, how can you send a guest away just like that? We should sit down and have a proper talk. We really must thank President Gu for his help this time."


    While the Ji family didn¡¯t know much about Gu Qixiao, they could see clearly that he had feelings for Ji Yu.


    Ji Yu immediately recognized what was happening¡ªthey were about to start matchmaking again.


    "Mom, Dad, President Gu has work to do. He shouldn¡¯t waste his time at our house."


    She kept signaling to Gu Qixiao with her eyes, hoping he¡¯d understand and leave quickly.


    But Gu Qixiao¡¯s intentions were clear¡ªhe had no intention of leaving.


    "Thank you, Uncle and Auntie. As it happens, I don¡¯t have any pressing matters right now, so I¡¯d love to sit and talk with you."


    And with that, he followed Ji Yu¡¯s parents into the house with a familiarity that seemed more fitting for someone returning to their own home.


    Ji Yu was about to crack. Thinking about how her ex-husband had never been to their home before, the situation felt almost unbearable.


    Who would¡¯ve thought they¡¯d end up in such an absurd scenario after getting divorced?


    "Thank you so much for your help this time. We all saw how you were protecting Yu¡ªyou know how stubborn she can be, always shutting us out."


    Madam Ji spoke with a look of exasperation, as though Ji Yu¡¯s actions had been deeply rebellious.


    God knew how badly Ji Yu wanted to erase this whole ordeal from her memory.


    "Actually, that¡¯s not entirely the way to see it..."


    She tried to offer up some sort of defense for herself, but the reality of the situation left her arguing pointlessly.


    "Yu does have those tendencies, and I¡¯ve been worried about her. At least this time, nothing serious happened."


    Gu Qixiao smoothly joined her parents in criticizing Ji Yu.


    Seeing the way he was acting, people unaware of the truth might even assume their rtionship was extraordinarily close.


    "This child really does need someone to look after her. We¡¯ll leave her well-being in your hands from now on."


    In truth, they hoped Ji Yu could find someone better to stay by her side. Since Gu Qixiao seemed like a good option, they were eager to seize the opportunity.


    Ji Yu coughed lightly and rubbed her abdomen, prompting her parents to finally remember she was pregnant.


    "Gu, what¡¯s your opinion about the child? Yu¡¯s feelings toward the baby have beenplicated. Her ex-husband was so irresponsible; we don¡¯t want her running back to him. You..."


    These words were spoken right in front of the ex-husband¡ªhow could this not be awkward?


    Ji Yu had no idea how to respond anymore.


    The situation was nothing short of a tangled mess.


    Then again, since they were all here now, how could she critique Gu Qixiao?


    "Mom, Dad, let¡¯s drop this topic, okay? Of course, he wouldn¡¯t agree to it. Besides, I¡¯ve already made my decision regarding the child¡ªI¡¯m keeping it."


    This was also her way of warning Gu Qixiao to stop his endless pursuit.


    She had a child on the way¡ªwhat could she possibly have left to do with Gu Qixiao?


    Gu Qixiao frowned but quickly understood Ji Yu¡¯s underlying meaning. "If you¡¯re truly fond of this child, I can help you raise them."


    Ji Yu felt like she was losing her mind.


    She had never seen someone eager to act as a "backup dad."


    Did this ex-husband have some special kind of kink?


    "Mom, Dad, maybe stop pestering Gu Qixiao about this. After all, he has a perfectly good ¡¯little sister.¡¯ They grew up as childhood sweethearts¡ªhow could there have been nothing between them? You¡¯re putting him on the spot."


    She absolutely couldn¡¯t let things keep heading down this path.


    Ji Yu¡¯s sense of crisis was sharp. She could tell Gu Qixiao¡¯s moves were utterly unexpected.


    Even her parents found it odd¡ªhow could anyone not care about such matters?


    "Gu, what kind of business do you run?"


    "I..."


    Before he could even answer, Ji Yu stuffed a tangerine into his mouth.

 Chapter 85 Avoiding Embarrassment

    <h4>Chapter 85: Chapter 85 Avoiding Embarrassment</h4>


    The culprit, Ji Yu, showed not the slightest hint of guilt.


    "Mom, Dad, he runs apany."


    That exnation was technically correct, but Gu Qixiao couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that something was off.


    The Ji family parents also harbored suspicions that Gu Qixiao might be plotting a marriage scam. Otherwise, why would he be so indifferent about the child? Their attitude toward him had grown noticeably colder.


    Seeing Gu Qixiao¡¯s puzzled expression, Ji Yu felt like she was on the verge of breaking down.


    It wasn¡¯t her fault! She had no choice in this matter. By exining it this way, she was merely trying to save Gu Qixiao from embarrassment.


    "Mom, Dad, since the discussion is more or less over, shouldn¡¯t we let President Gu get back to his work now?"


    "At least stay for a meal. After all, he did help you a lot this time." Although they were suspicious of Gu Qixiao, there was no denying the authenticity of his involvement in this particr incident.


    As a result, their attitude toward Gu Qixiao became marginally warmer.


    When Ji Yuanzhou returned that evening, this was the scene he walked in on.


    For a moment, he wondered if his eyes were ying tricks on him.


    "Yu, this is..."


    "Mom and Dad are just thanking President Gu. He¡¯ll be leaving soon," Ji Yu replied through gritted teeth.


    She couldn¡¯t quite find the words to describe the absurdity of the situation in front of her.


    It all felt utterly ridiculous.


    Ji Yu had been feeling resistant to this entire scene long before now, and she was eager for it to end quickly.


    The meal felt like torture for Ji Yu, while Ji Yuanzhou observed Gu Qixiao with curiosity, wondering what his true intentions were.


    His gaze carried an investigative edge, as if trying to discern why Gu Qixiao had stayed with their family. Could he have some ulterior motive?


    "It seems there might¡¯ve been some misunderstandings in the past. We didn¡¯t have the most pleasant first meeting. I¡¯ll formally introduce myself today: I¡¯m Gu Qixiao, Ji Yu¡¯s suitor."


    When Gu Qixiao said his name, Ji Yuanzhou froze momentarily.


    But he quickly responded, "What did you say your name is?"


    "Gu Qixiao." Gu Qixiao was confident; it was rare for anyone to share his name.


    Ji Yu, watching this y out, felt numb to it all. "Whoever needs to leave should just go. There¡¯s no need to block the doorway with introductions."


    Her attitude also served as confirmation of Gu Qixiao¡¯s identity.


    Ji Yuanzhou¡¯s gaze turned yful. "It seems this suitor of yours is quite interesting."


    The situation with the marriage had been one thing, but pursuing her after the divorce? Now, that was getting intriguing.


    Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t quite grasp Ji Yuanzhou¡¯s tone, but he understood that Ji Yu didn¡¯t want to witness this scene. "I¡¯ll leave now. But don¡¯t forget to take proper rest¡ªyou¡¯ve been pushing yourself too hard these days."


    With that, he turned and left.


    However, he remained skeptical of Ji Yuanzhou¡¯s earlier remarks.


    After stating his name, Ji Yuanzhou¡¯s expression had be particrly amused.


    "Does this Ji Yuanzhou have any partnership with us?"


    "The Ji family¡¯s coboration has been ongoing for quite some time. Does President Gu have any specific concerns?" Assistant Li didn¡¯t understand why Gu Qixiao was asking.


    But seeing as Gu Qixiao had met the parents today, he assumed the rest would proceed smoothly.


    "It¡¯s nothing. Let¡¯s head back."


    Since there were no clear leads for now, he decided to put the matter on hold for the time being.


    Over on Ji Yuanzhou¡¯s side, however, he couldn¡¯t help but feel curious. "Why are you still crossing paths with him?"


    "Honestly, I don¡¯t want any more involvement with Gu Qixiao. But he has helped me a lot recently." Ji Yu rubbed her temples, unsure how to exin the situation.


    "Since he helped you, he can at least be considered a friend. There¡¯s no need to overthink it. If you feel wronged, you can always tell us."


    Ji Yuanzhou was certain Ji Yu had endured a lot during this time.


    As for Gu Qixiao, he didn¡¯t take him seriously.


    "Go rest," he said while gently ruffling Ji Yu¡¯s hair, hoping she wouldn¡¯t dwell too much on the matter.


    When Ji Yu returned to her room, she felt a mix of exasperation and amusement.


    Thinking about today¡¯s events, she couldn¡¯t help but smile.


    "Maybe you¡¯re not that insufferable after all."


    At the very least, Gu Qixiao wasn¡¯t entirely loathsome in her eyes.


    However, what had happened before still left its traces¡ªit wasn¡¯t something that could be entirely erased.


    "Forget it. There¡¯s no point in dwelling on it."


    She figured it would be better just to rest.


    While Ji Yu slept soundly, things weren¡¯t going so well for Song Xuan.


    She hadn¡¯t expected Ji Yu to deal with the situation so swiftly.


    "What¡¯s going on? Didn¡¯t you say this matter would be resolved easily?"


    She kept questioning the hired trolls about the situation, but this time it was like her messages had vanished into thin air.


    Worried something else might happen, she decided to get rid of her SIM card altogether.


    "Still up sote?" Gu Qixiao noticed her sitting on the couch, looking unsettled, and asked with a rare note of concern.


    Song Xuan¡¯s facial scars had almost healed, but she still carried hints of insecurity.


    "Xiao, why are you back so early tonight?"


    She had just finished erasing all her records. Even if someone investigated her, there wouldn¡¯t be a shred of evidence left.


    "There¡¯s been a lot happeningtely. I came back to check in."


    He knew Song Xuan had been keeping tabs on Ji Yu¡¯s situation. "Are you following developments online?"


    "Yes. Doctor Ji is so skilled; how could something like this happen to her?" She forced a smile, her eyes avoiding his gaze.


    "Is that so?" Gu Qixiao neither confirmed nor denied it. Since he already knew the truth, there was no need to let it bother him further.


    "She¡¯s assigned people to investigate. I believe they¡¯ll soon uncover the culprit behind all this. After all, she knows plenty of influential figures."


    That earlier remark about having new allies? Everyone had taken notice.


    Given the current state of affairs, finding the person behind the scheme wouldn¡¯t take long.


    For a brief moment, panic shed across Song Xuan¡¯s face. She had guessed that her contacts had been discovered when none of them responded to her.


    But as long as she hadn¡¯t been singled out, there was no way she would confess.


    "Well, I wish Miss Ji sess in resolving these issues quickly. It¡¯s been affecting the hospital, after all. I just can¡¯t understand how people could be so malicious."


    She feigned solidarity with Ji Yu, but inwardly she was already considering finding a scapegoat. Otherwise, she¡¯d inevitably be roped in.


    "Xiao, do you actually like Doctor Ji? It seems like you were protecting her again today."


    That scene had filled Song Xuan with jealousy so fierce it nearly drove her mad. The things she¡¯d never experienced in her life, Ji Yu seemed to obtain effortlessly.


    But this time, she was fishing for Gu Qixiao¡¯s true feelings.


    "Maybe. It¡¯s not something you need to concern yourself with."

 Chapter 86: Prayers and Questions

    <h4>Chapter 86: Chapter 86: Prayers and Questions</h4>


    Gu Qixiao had long since understood Song Xuan¡¯s intentions.


    Now, it was only natural to maintain a certain distance from her.


    Song Xuan clenched her fist. "Xiao, you could have just told me. I would definitely have given you my blessing. It¡¯s just that I don¡¯t know if Doctor Ji is aware that you¡¯ve been divorced."


    She knew someone like Ji Yu would definitely care about such a matter.


    Gu Qixiao frowned, pondering whether Ji Yu truly knew about this.


    Based on Ji Yu¡¯s past reactions, she probably did.


    "I¡¯ll make things clear to her."


    Perhaps he was also worried that Ji Yu would continue to misunderstand.


    The next morning, Gu Qixiao was waiting downstairs at Ji Yu¡¯s apartment.


    When Ji Yu saw him, she was quite surprised. "Why are you here?"


    So early in the morning, doesn¡¯t he need to go to work?


    "I want to ask you a question. Would you mind that I¡¯ve been divorced?"


    Suddenly being asked such a thing by her ex-husband, Ji Yu momentarily couldn¡¯t quite wrap her head around it.


    "What does your divorce have to do with me?"


    To be honest, Ji Yu didn¡¯t quite understand this line of thinking.


    Why would he think his divorce had any connection to her?


    "Honestly, I don¡¯t see any issue with it. Only someone who likes you would care about such a thing, and there¡¯s nothing like that between us."


    After all, their rtionship was merely that of ex-spouses.


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t even know how to respond properly.


    Gu Qixiao frowned. "You just need to say whether you mind or not. Things between me and my ex-wife aren¡¯t asplicated as you might think."


    He wanted to exin the situation concerning his ex-wife to Ji Yu.


    But Ji Yu didn¡¯t want to hear it.


    "I know what you¡¯re trying to say¡ªnothing but the usual: it was arranged by your family, and there were no feelings between you two."


    As Gu Qixiao¡¯s ex-wife, how could she not know these things?


    Thankfully, Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t know the truth¡ªotherwise, wouldn¡¯t the awkwardness be unbearable?


    Meeting someone you¡¯ve never even seen before, and then suddenly dering you like them¡ªwho wouldn¡¯t find that shocking?


    "To be honest, I think divorce is apletely normal thing. Don¡¯t you know the current divorce rate is so high?"


    She looked at Gu Qixiao with a hint of exasperation, hoping he¡¯d learn to understand this.


    Gu Qixiao hadn¡¯t expected Ji Yu to be so understanding about his ex-wife and didn¡¯t know what to say to her.


    "Do you trust me?"


    "Trust you? How could I not trust you?" She was standing right there¡ªhow could she not trust him?


    These past three years, she knew better than anyone else how things had been.


    "Can you please let go of my hand, President Gu? If you keep holding on like this, I might have to call the police on you."


    Thinking back on past events infuriated her¡ªespecially factoring in that child issue. One could only say this man genuinely had some screws loose.


    Gu Qixiao obediently let go, specting that Ji Yu might not believe him, which exined her reaction. He had no idea that Ji Yu was actually his long-lost ex-wife.


    Because of this, Ji Yu didn¡¯t see Gu Qixiao for the next week.


    If she saw him, she would go out of her way to avoid him.


    "Yu, why are you avoiding me?" Gu Qixiao blocked Ji Yu¡¯s path, demanding an exnation.


    "Maybe I just don¡¯t like divorced men. Sure, I¡¯ve been divorced too, but I won¡¯t ept my partner being divorced."


    Ji Yu spoke with a touch of sarcasm.


    Even her small face carried an expression of mockery, clearly growing more irritated by the situation.


    Gu Qixiao was struck silent. "But..."


    He couldn¡¯t find an excuse. After all, being divorced wasn¡¯t something he could undo.


    "You don¡¯t need to say more. It¡¯s normal. Let¡¯s just keep things as they are."


    She maintained her usual easy smile, but Gu Qixiao was already starting to crack under the strain.


    It felt as though the current situation was digging right into his chest, tearing at his heart.


    "What do I need to do for you to not care about it?"


    "I will always care." With that, Ji Yu turned and got into Feng Qinqin¡¯s car without looking back.


    Feng Qinqin had been watching the drama unfold and couldn¡¯t suppress herughter.


    "This is just too funny. Your ex-husband really isn¡¯t all there, is he? I mean, listen to the nonsense he¡¯s saying."


    Ji Yu sighed. "Stop making fun of me already. This whole situation is ridiculous."


    She didn¡¯t even know what to say anymore. It really was a messy situation, and she had no idea when she could finally resolve everything concerning Gu Qixiao.


    "Yuyu, are you sure you don¡¯t like this Gu Qixiao? When I see the two of you talk, it feels like there¡¯s a certain closeness."


    Usually, Ji Yu would never talk to anyone like that. Besides, earlier, when Gu Qixiao had grabbed her hand, she didn¡¯t seem to resist instinctively.


    "How could that be? Me liking my ex-husband? Wouldn¡¯t that be a joke?"


    Feng Qinqin nodded in agreement. "You¡¯re right. It¡¯s just me overthinking. But seriously, you should try to keep your distance from him. If all else fails, just tell him the truth about who you are."


    At the very least, Gu Qixiao would be the one feeling awkward then.


    Ji Yu only had to imagine that scene to feel secondhand embarrassment. "Forget it. It¡¯s already in the past, and I don¡¯t want to make things more awkward."


    To be honest, she hadn¡¯t yet mastered the art of "hurting the enemy a thousand times at the cost of eight hundred wounds to herself." If she were to reveal the truth to Gu Qixiao, it¡¯d inevitably affect her as well.


    "Fine, if you don¡¯t want to say it, no one¡¯s going to force you. It just means I get to keep watching the drama. That¡¯s fun for me too."


    After all, this might be a bit of karmic payback for that previous business deal when Gu Qixiao had so decisively cut ties.


    "By the way, has Cai Xune to find you recently?"


    Ji Yu hadn¡¯t forgotten Cai Xun¡¯s attitude back then.


    Thistest deal had hit a snag, and she was certain he must be feeling the pressure by now.


    "He probably doesn¡¯t even have the nerve to show his face. Maybe he¡¯lly low for a while before resurfacing to pull his cons again."


    She had long since seen Cai Xun¡¯s true colors and felt no sympathy for him.


    Sometimes, it really seemed like if you talk about someone too much, they¡¯ll appear.


    Just as the two of them were discussing Cai Xun, they spotted him at the restaurant while they were eating.


    "Rest assured, this deal is absolutely foolproof. And besides, with you backing us, there¡¯s no reason for us to think otherwise."


    That tone sounded so familiar.


    Both Feng Qinqin and Ji Yu had heard it before. So, they decided to sit at the table next to him instead.


    Listening to his words, they both couldn¡¯t help but suppress theirughter.


    "That guy is as shameless as ever. Who knows who he¡¯s trying to scam this time?"


    Completely oblivious to their presence, Cai Xun was enthusiastically pitching his case to the person across from him.

 Chapter 87: Revenge

    <h4>Chapter 87: Chapter 87: Revenge</h4>


    Previously, Cai Xun relied on his glib tongue to secure numerous deals.


    But this time, both Ji Yu and Feng Qinqin had seen through him.


    Naturally, they wouldn¡¯t show him any kindness.


    "Oh my, isn¡¯t this Mr. Cai? Weren¡¯t you previously negotiating deals with the Gu family? Howe this time you¡¯re working on such a small project?"


    Feng Qinqin never held back when speaking to Cai Xun, and seeing him now, she couldn¡¯t resist mocking him.


    For a moment, Cai Xun¡¯s expression turned awkward; he hadn¡¯t expected to run into them here.


    "The previous project was snatched away by your Feng family. I can¡¯t starve, can I? Besides, mypany is doing so well now¡ªit¡¯s fine to work on any project."


    He had to quicklye up with an exnation.


    But deep down, he resented the sudden presence of Ji Yu and Feng Qinqin.


    If the business partner fled because of this, who knew what might happen next.


    Ji Yu raised her brows slightly. "Oh, really? Yourpany¡¯s still operating? Did you manage to solve the issue of that severed funding chain fromst time?"


    They were all aware of the matter, though Cai Xun had never confessed to anyone.


    Funding issues were a sensitive topic before negotiations; unsurprisingly, the other party¡¯s face quickly darkened.


    "Mr. Cai, why didn¡¯t you mention this before?"


    Seeing the other party¡¯s heightened vignce, Cai Xun knew that negotiations were pretty much dead in the water.


    "Don¡¯t listen to the nonsense these women are spewing! That woman was my ex-girlfriend. She even stole my project before¡ªhow could she ever say anything good about me?"


    As he spoke about the matter, his expression became somewhat twisted.


    To him, it had always felt like the project rightfully belonged to him.


    Yet when it ultimately ended up back in Feng Qinqin¡¯s hands, it was indeed aggravating.


    Ji Yu¡¯s delicate, well-crafted face bore a faint smile. "Is that so? If I¡¯m not mistaken, didn¡¯t the Gu family give you plenty of opportunities? Instead of cherishing them, you me others for your own failure?"


    They understood much more about this incident than Cai Xun probably realized.


    Upon hearing this, Cai Xun¡¯s expression visibly tightened.


    "Don¡¯t go spouting nonsense, or I¡¯ll call the police on you."


    He found Ji Yu irksome to begin with, and now he saw this as an opportunity to escape quickly.


    "By all means, call the police. But why not talk about the past first? Since you benefited quite generously from Qinqin, isn¡¯t it time to return what you owe?"


    Ji Yu knew Feng Qinqin had always beenvish with her boyfriend. Now that they had broken up, wasn¡¯t it only right to clear the air and reim the benefits?


    Speaking about her ex, Feng Qinqin found herself feeling rather embarrassed. It was undeniable her judgment back then hadn¡¯t been the best¡ªthat was why she¡¯d treated such a scumbag so well.


    "What nonsense are you talking about?"


    Cai Xun had no intention of continuing this pointless argument. Knowing trouble was bound to follow, he shoved Ji Yu aside, making a quick dash to escape.


    Ji Yu almost lost her footing, but someone behind her reached out to steady her.


    "Thank you..."


    When she saw who it was, she was momentarily taken aback, her words catching in her throat.


    "What¡¯s wrong? Don¡¯t recognize me anymore?" Hong stared at Ji Yu eagerly, as if terrified she wouldn¡¯t remember him.


    Ji Yu¡¯s expression turned a bit helpless. "Didn¡¯t I tell you not to return home for the time being?"


    "I knew you weren¡¯t doing well here in the country. How could I just sit abroad and do nothing?"


    Hong had long wanted to return but followed Ji Yu¡¯s prior instructions to stay away. Now that they were reunited, there was no way he would leave again.


    Ji Yu sighed, knowing full well Hong¡¯s character. "Fine, since you¡¯ve alreadye back, then stay."


    Her previous marriage was over, so there was no need to concern herself with such things anymore.


    Hong¡¯s face lit up with joy, surprised that Ji Yu would agree so readily.


    "Perfect timing. Qinqin is here too. Let¡¯s have a meal together."


    Ji Yu suddenly found herself nostalgic about the past. Over the past three years, she¡¯d asionally missed them.


    Seeing them again now felt like a surprising twist of fate.


    "Sister Yu, why have you been getting so much k onlely?"


    Hong couldn¡¯t help but recall the drama circting on social media, wishing he could drag those people out to put an end to the nonsense and stop Ji Yu¡¯s name from being dragged further.


    Ji Yu chuckled lightly, ustomed to such situations by now. "What they¡¯re saying has nothing to do with me. Besides, I¡¯ve already proven my innocence in my own way. There¡¯s no need to dwell on it."


    She¡¯d long learned how to let these things go.


    But now that Hong was back, perhaps many of these issues would be easier to handle.


    "Can you help me investigate who¡¯s behind thistest wave of fake posters?"


    Ji Yu was eager to know who was orchestrating the recent smear campaign.


    The previous culprits hadn¡¯t provided any satisfying answers.


    Ji Yu wasn¡¯t the type to back down so easily.


    Hong perked up instantly. "Alright. I¡¯ll send you the information on this person tomorrow morning. But Sister Yu, you need to be extra carefultely, it feels like trouble keeps finding you, and there might even be more extreme tactics ahead."


    Ji Yu had been vignt about this all along.


    But for now, things seemed rtively quiet.


    Returning home, Ji Yu mulled over the matter.


    Hong certainly worked fast.


    The next morning, the information had already been sent to Ji Yu¡¯s phone.


    "Sister Yu, it seems this person previously received treatment from you."


    Oh, more than that.


    As Ji Yu scanned the details, she once again found herself sighing over Song Xuan¡¯s antics.


    She¡¯d always suspected Song Xuan harbored a grudge against her, but she hadn¡¯t anticipated such an intense level of animosity.


    "Sister Yu, what are you nning to do?"


    "For now, let¡¯s leave it alone. I¡¯ll handle it." Ji Yu had warned Song Xuan before, but thetter¡¯s insistence on using such despicable methods showed she¡¯d been problematic from the start.


    This time, Ji Yu didn¡¯t go directly to Gu Qixiao. Instead, she arranged to meet with Song Xuan.


    It just so happened that it was time for a follow-up medication appointment.


    After switching medications, Ji Yu maintained a calm demeanor. "Assistant Li, could you please step out for a moment? I have some things I need to discuss with Miss Song privately."


    Assistant Li was hesitant, mainly worried Song Xuan might say something outrageous.


    "Don¡¯t worry, I wouldn¡¯t harm my patient," Ji Yu said, disdainful of such behavior.


    "Alright. If anythinges up, please call me immediately, Doctor Ji." He truly feared the two might end up fighting.


    Once Assistant Li left, Song Xuan¡¯s expression turned impatient. "Why are you looking for me? Surely you¡¯re not here to dig up information about Xiao, are you? Xiao belongs to me¡ªyou won¡¯t be able to take him away."


    Her obsession was evident; no matter the asion, she had to dere this im.


    Ji Yu arched a brow. "Really? I have no interest in your Xiao for now. But I am much more curious about you."

 Chapter 88: Clarifying the Situation

    <h4>Chapter 88: Chapter 88: rifying the Situation</h4>


    "Why don¡¯t you exin properly how this situation came to be?"


    She directly threw the documents in front of Song Xuan.


    Song Xuan looked at the chat records and detailed locations on the documents, her expression stiffening for a moment.


    She dreaded these records ever being revealed to Gu Qixiao, but now they were right in front of her, leaving her momentarily unsure of what to do.


    "What¡¯s wrong? Cat got your tongue?" Ji Yu, already aware of these matters long ago, was now curious as she observed Song Xuan¡¯s reaction.


    Surely, she wouldn¡¯t still try to shirk responsibility, would she? If she did, it would truly be amusing.


    "What do you want to say? Yes, I did these things, but so what? If you hadn¡¯t seduced Xiao, I wouldn¡¯t have done something like this."


    Her gaze toward Ji Yu was filled with resentment.


    Her once reasonably pretty face had be twisted with jealousy.


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t show much of a reaction to her expression. "It seems you might not be aware that these pieces of evidence, once sent to the police, will immediately get you arrested."


    Some people are rtively ignorant of thew, which might exin theirck of understanding of these consequences.


    But there was no way Ji Yu would let her slip away so easily.


    "I¡¯m quite reasonable, really. However, the things you did caused me significant losses. Shouldn¡¯t youpensate me for those losses?"


    She had no interest in stooping to other tactics.


    Nor did she care to threaten; she simply wanted a resolution.


    Song Xuan¡¯s eyes darted evasively. "What do you mean?"


    "I think my meaning is very clear. As long as you pay me sufficientpensation, this matter can be put to rest."


    Of course, only she knew how muchpensation was needed.


    The choice between paying money or escting the matter was entirely in Ji Yu¡¯s hands.


    Although Song Xuan understood the situation, she still didn¡¯t know what to say.


    "Go ahead, report it to the police. Even if you report me, Xiao will never let me get arrested."


    "Oh? I¡¯m curious about how Gu Qixiao will react when he learns all these things were done by you." Ji Yu took out her phone, seeming like she was about to call Gu Qixiao.


    Song Xuan¡¯s expression began to crack. "What do you mean? If you dare make that call, I¡¯ll have someone drag you out of here immediately."


    Her gaze carried a trace of viciousness, and she started scheming to elerate her ns. If Ji Yu continued acting so bold, who knew when she might snatch Gu Qixiao away?


    "My intentions are very clear. I¡¯m not asking for much¡ªjust fifty million," Ji Yu stated coldly.


    She knew Song Xuan wasn¡¯t entirely wrong; regardless of how egregious her actions were, Gu Qixiao would ultimately bail her out.


    Rather than ending up with nothing, Ji Yu might as well secure some money first.


    This amount was reasonably calcted aspensation for her losses, and Ji Yu wouldn¡¯t hesitate.


    Upon hearing "fifty million," Song Xuan¡¯s eyes widened in shock. "You¡¯re not worth that kind of money. What the hell are you trying to pull?"


    She had the urge to teach Ji Yu a lesson, yet under these circumstances, she couldn¡¯t act publicly.


    "I¡¯ve exined it already. Pay up, and this matter gets swept under the rug. It¡¯s a simple concept¡ªI¡¯m sure you can grasp it."


    After all, this wasn¡¯t the first time she¡¯d dealt with such matters.


    Song Xuan¡¯s face darkened, clearly unable to produce that kind of money.


    "If you can¡¯t give me the money right now, that¡¯s fine¡ªjust write me a promissory note. I¡¯m reasonable like that. You don¡¯t even have to pay it back right away; I¡¯ll simply pass these details along to Gu Qixiao if necessary."


    Going by Gu Qixiao¡¯s temperament, if he ever found out the truth behind these events, he would undoubtedly cut ties with Song Xuan for good.


    Grinding her teeth in frustration, Song Xuan eventually relented, though bitterness raged inside her.


    "Ji Yu, mark my words. I won¡¯t let this go so easily."


    "Then bring me even morepensation¡ªI¡¯ll happily wait." Ji Yu was unbothered by the whole ordeal.


    It was just another game of dramatics. She weed the chaos, but extracting money¡ªthat was the bottom line.


    Of course, even patience has its limits. Ji Yu couldn¡¯t tolerate indefinitely, and these matters were bound to boil over one day.


    When Assistant Li entered the room, he immediately noticed the tense atmosphere. However, seeing Ji Yu with her usual calm andposed smile, he figured she hadn¡¯t suffered any undue harm. He decided to ignore the situation and directly escorted Song Xuan out.


    Song Xuan, filled with pent-up fury, felt helpless as she had nowhere to vent her frustrations.


    "Assistant Li, take me to the office."


    She intended to confront Gu Qixiao.


    Did Gu Qixiao even know what kind of person Ji Yu truly was?


    Perhaps Ji Yu was only interested in him for his money.


    Assistant Li hesitated. "Miss Song, it¡¯s not appropriate for you to visit the office right now. Besides, President Gu is currently very busy and may not have time for casual conversations."


    She wasn¡¯t going there for idle chatter; she was going to air her grievances.


    "I¡¯ll exin everything to Xiao properly. You just need to take me there."


    She couldn¡¯t afford to let her ns slip through her fingers in Gu Qixiao¡¯s eyes.


    When Gu Qixiao saw Song Xuan, his expression tensed slightly. "What are you doing here?"


    He sounded as if speaking to a stranger.


    Her face twisted in an anguished expression, making the situation appear exceedingly dire.


    "I came to see Xiao, and I also wanted to talk to you about something."


    She couldn¡¯t let matters drag on.


    "Go ahead."


    Gu Qixiao knew Song Xuan had been behaving quite dociletely, but there was something peculiar about this encounter.


    "Xiao, I want to talk to you about work. As you know, I¡¯m quite familiar with thepany¡¯s operations. Can Ie work at yourpany?"


    She¡¯d been considering this idea for a while.


    If she couldn¡¯t win Gu Qixiao over on Tiantian¡¯s behalf, then proximity could be her next best tactic. After all, being close to him might yield an opportunity.


    "You want to stay in thepany?" For Gu Qixiao, this proposal posed a slight dilemma.


    Still, appreciating Song Xuan¡¯s apparent effort to put emotions aside, he eventually agreed.


    "Assistant Li, handle the arrangements."


    He wasn¡¯t overly familiar with the specifics of Song Xuan¡¯s situation.


    Assistant Li¡¯s face contorted with pain at this task, but he replied numbly, "Understood."


    "Oh, Xiao,tely, I¡¯vee across some bags and clothes I like. May I use your card for them?"


    She needed to figure out a way to deal with the money first; otherwise, she wouldn¡¯t know how to proceed.


    The thought of facing Ji Yu¡¯s impending debt left her overwhelmed.


    "Go ahead and use it." Gu Qixiao, always generous in such matters, would never begrudge her.

 Chapter 89 Ulterior Motives

    <h4>Chapter 89: Chapter 89 Ulterior Motives</h4>


    Song Xuan was pleased, but she hadn¡¯t forgotten about the matter of dealing with Ji Yu.


    She decisively sent a message to the people she¡¯d already prepared ahead of time.


    [You can take action early now.]


    However, Ji Yu waspletely unaware of any of this.


    With the fifty million promissory note in her hand, she was fairly content.


    "Sister Yu, I heard Hong is back?"


    "Mm, he¡¯s nning to settle down in the country." Ji Yu knew how close they were, so she didn¡¯t bother keeping this from them.


    Tian¡¯s face lit up with excitement, "That¡¯s fantastic! We¡¯ll finally have some time to get together."


    These people all hoped for the best for one another.


    Ji Yu smiled, "I know you¡¯re going to see him, and he¡¯ll definitely be thrilled. But I probably won¡¯t be able to join you today; I¡¯ve got some things to take care of."


    She had just received a call from the police saying Tang Xin wanted to meet her.


    Initially, Ji Yu had intended to refuse.


    But as things took an unexpected turn, meeting might actually be worthwhile.


    Tang Xin truly hadn¡¯t mentioned anything else. She seemed entirely focused on her face. "Doctor Ji, could you help me treat my face? As long as you¡¯re willing, I¡¯ll tell you anything you want to know."


    Ji Yu frowned, ustomed to dealing with such matters, "I¡¯m sorry, but I have principles about this sort of thing. You¡¯ll have to wait until you¡¯re released to find someone else. Besides, I already know who did this; I don¡¯t need your help."


    Hadn¡¯t she been clear enough with these people?


    Tang Xin¡¯s expression showed surprise, "You really know it was the Gu family¡¯s arrangement?"


    Ji Yu¡¯s brows knitted slightly; she hadn¡¯t expected this. But since Tang Xin had said it outright, it meant someone from the Gu family truly was involved.


    "Who are you talking about?"


    Hong hadn¡¯t found any leads, so did Tang Xin have something else?


    Tang Xin saw Ji Yu¡¯s apparent curiosity and quickly brought up her face again, "If you help me fix my face, I can tell you everything that happened."


    But Ji Yu didn¡¯t nod.


    "No need."


    She disliked coercion, and Ji Yu would never force herself toply.


    "What I hate most is being forced into something. You¡¯ve probably noticed by now¡ªI don¡¯t want to treat your face."


    Anything she disliked would never stand a chance with her.


    Seeing Ji Yu about to walk away, Tang Xin grew uneasy, sensing that her chances would vanish once Ji Yu left.


    "You¡¯ll undoubtedly be shocked when you find out, and I¡¯ve also heard you have ties to the Gu family."


    Ji Yu still didn¡¯t turn back, though her mind began to question who it might be.


    After all, very few people were aware of her connection to the Gu family.


    "I knew you¡¯d be here." Gu Qixiao was already waiting at the police station entrance, though Ji Yu hadn¡¯t noticed when he arrived.


    When Ji Yu spotted him, her expression didn¡¯t change much. Instead, she donned a scrutinizing look.


    "Why are you staring at me like that? Do I look like I¡¯ve got issues or something?"


    Gu Qixiao himself couldn¡¯t tell what might be wrong, making Ji Yu view him with such eyes.


    But Ji Yu didn¡¯t seem inclined to spell it out for him, "It¡¯s nothing. If there¡¯s nothing else, hurry home and rest."


    She was already ustomed to dealing with such situations.


    She couldn¡¯t tell if Gu Qixiao genuinely didn¡¯t know or was feigning ignorance about the earlier events. Either way, their current rtionship didn¡¯t require further rification.


    Gu Qixiao, unsettled by Ji Yu¡¯s cold demeanor, felt a sense of foreboding, "What¡¯s wrong? If there¡¯s something, just say so¡ªwe can tackle it together. Why treat me like this?"


    He firmly believed that as long as he was sincere enough, Ji Yu would eventuallye to love him.


    He stepped out of the car, attempting to grab Ji Yu¡¯s hand, only for her to dodge.


    "It¡¯s unnecessary. I don¡¯t see what there is to exin here. Look at the situation¡ªdon¡¯t you think you should keep a distance from me?"


    Some things indeed required maintaining distance to be better handled.


    Yet, certain matters benefitted from persistence.


    Gu Qixiao stubbornly stared at Ji Yu, refusing to leave.


    "If you¡¯re not leaving, at least make way. I need to get through."


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t want to talk too much with Gu Qixiao, but it seemed like every encounter proved unavoidable.


    "I want to know why you¡¯re being so distant."


    This clearly wasn¡¯t an ordinary matter; he was determined to block her way.


    "I don¡¯t know if you¡¯re feigning ignorance or truly clueless, but the Gu family seems rather fond of these kinds of tactics. Could you stop using them to toy with me?"


    She detested such methods.


    Her cold gaze was chilling, reminiscent of their very first meeting.


    Gu Qixiao opened his mouth as if to respond but ultimately sighed instead, "I don¡¯t know why you¡¯d think that, but I would never use such tactics against you."


    He genuinely didn¡¯t have the time.


    He silently muttered to himself.


    He¡¯d painstakingly rearranged his schedule to make time to see Ji Yu today, and he hadn¡¯t been wrong toe.


    "Yu, I don¡¯t know why you have such thoughts, but I need to rify: I didn¡¯te to toy with you. I genuinely want to be with you."


    Though such feelings might be hard to understand, Gu Qixiao was absolutely sincere about them.


    His intense gaze locked onto Ji Yu, as though he wanted to melt her with it.


    "But everything you¡¯ve shown seems so calcted. Gu Qixiao, how am I supposed to trust you?"


    She rubbed her aching temples, trying to walk past him.


    "You are my goal." Gu Qixiao had already made his intentions clear.


    Still, being used of ulterior motives felt unfair.


    "You¡¯re acting so strangely today; I don¡¯t know what someone might have told you. But I promise, I have no other motives toward you."


    "So you really can ept this child?" Ji Yu couldn¡¯t help but raise her voice.


    The matter led her to doubt.


    From the moment the child entered the picture, Gu Qixiao had begun changing, making it difficult to believe he was unaware.


    "I don¡¯t even know whether I should ept the child or not. But if you¡¯ve decided to keep them, I¡¯ll respect your wishes."


    All he knew was that Ji Yu was single.


    Ji Yu increasingly suspected Gu Qixiao knew something. Otherwise, he wouldn¡¯t act in this peculiar way.


    The matter of the child would be discussedter, but Gu Qixiao absolutely couldn¡¯t continue interacting so closely¡ªit¡¯d undoubtedly lead to trouble.


    "I need some time to cool off. Regarding the child, I hope you won¡¯t overthink things."


    Her exhaustion showed, and she had no desire to keep sparring mentally with everyone.


    "You can ask me anything directly. Why waste time on these pointless spections?"

 Chapter 90 Wild Thoughts

    <h4>Chapter 90: Chapter 90 Wild Thoughts</h4>


    Even Ji Yu had to admit that this statement was indeed correct, but it wasn¡¯t suitable for the two of them.


    "What you¡¯re saying works for people who are open with each other, but we both have secrets, so why bother talking about this?"


    After speaking, Ji Yu turned around and left while Gu Qixiao was still stunned, without even giving him a chance to exin.


    She couldn¡¯t figure out who to consult, so she simply called Feng Qinqin to a restaurant intending to talk about the matter in detail.


    "Yuyu, have you changed recently? Isn¡¯t going to the bar fun anymore?"


    Recently, Feng Qinqin had been enjoying herself at the bar and now couldn¡¯t resist trying to take Ji Yu along to join the fun.


    Ji Yu shook her head. "This has nothing to do with it. Look at me¡ªdo I look like I¡¯m in the mood for something like that?"


    She had already made herself clear before.


    Hearing this, Feng Qinqin became even more puzzled. "Then why aren¡¯t you going to the bar?"


    "Because I¡¯m pregnant."


    Ji Yu was ready to state the fact outright; she couldn¡¯t keep hiding it from Feng Qinqin. Sooner orter, the truth woulde out, so it was better to disclose it proactively.


    "Ah, it¡¯s just pregnancy; I thought it was something major..."


    "Wait, what did you just say happened to you?"


    At first, Feng Qinqin didn¡¯t react and continued rambling, but as she reached the end of her sentence, she suddenly realized something felt off.


    She stared at Ji Yu in disbelief, as if seeing something utterly bizarre.


    "You heard correctly¡ªI really am pregnant. I actually intended to tell you this earlier, but I was worried you might not take it well. Anyway, today I need to discuss something with you."


    This time, Feng Qinqin wasn¡¯t just shocked¡ªshe waspletely at a loss.


    "You mean you¡¯ve been keeping your pregnancy a secret from only me? I was just talking about taking you to a bar¡ªI must really be out of my mind."


    Actually, Ji Yu had been showing some unmistakable signs over this period. It¡¯s just that Feng Qinqin hadn¡¯t considered that possibility until now, which kept her from noticing the matter regarding the child.


    "Now that you mention it, I feel this isn¡¯t simple. Are you about to tell me the child belongs to your ex-husband?"


    She felt numbed toward this sort of thing.


    And was still unsure why it hade to this.


    Ji Yu rubbed her temples. "You guessed right¡ªthe child is indeed his. Also, today I wanted to talk to you about this because there¡¯s something I suspect, but I can¡¯t be certain of it."


    She couldn¡¯t shake off what Tang Xin had mentioned earlier, but for now, she had no way of resolving it.


    "If you really have suspicions, why not go into detail? I can help you brainstorm. But as for the child, you should think carefully¡ªI¡¯ve always believed that this Gu Qixiao isn¡¯t a good person."


    The previous incidents had left a deep impression on her, and this time she hoped Ji Yu could make a clear-headed decision.


    "Once this child is linked to the Gu family, it¡¯ll be impossible to sever ties entirely, no matter how tangled and chaotic things get between you and Gu Qixiao."


    This matter couldn¡¯t afford even the slightest misstep.


    Ji Yu understood the logic, leaning against the nearby sofa with some irritation. "I get that too, but the child is innocent in all this."


    She wasn¡¯t nning on discussing the matter about the child. "I suspect Gu Qixiao might know about what happened before, but his behavior doesn¡¯t really seem like it."


    "Why do you have such suspicions, then?"


    Feng Qinqin couldn¡¯t make sense of it either. If Gu Qixiao truly knew, how could he act so indifferent?


    "Today, I went to see Tang Xin, and she said this matter is connected to the Gu family. Someone like her couldn¡¯t possibly know things about the Gu family unless it were true."


    Ji Yu had originally wanted to handle this matter carefully, but thinking it through, the only Gu family member currently active around her was Gu Qixiao.


    "Why would he go through so much effort just to mess with you? Isn¡¯t he pursuing you? How could he possibly do something like this?"


    "But he doesn¡¯t mind the child." Ji Yu¡¯sment on this matter essentially centered all suspicions on one point.


    Anyone observing would find it odd.


    No normal person would want to take on someone else¡¯s child, and besides, didn¡¯t Gu Qixiao know about the past?


    "His rtionship with Song Xuan is alsoplicated. I have no idea what¡¯s going on between them, but it¡¯s clear that Gu Qixiao doesn¡¯t entirely disregard Song Xuan either."


    If that¡¯s the case, why aren¡¯t the two of them together?


    This had always been a lingering mystery.


    For a moment, Feng Qinqin also felt doubtful. "Do you think it¡¯s possible that he¡¯s intentionally setting things up¡ªto y the hero rescuing the damsel in distress, making you think differently about him, and then taking away the child?"


    Thinking along those lines left both of them feeling chills.


    Previously, they might have said Gu Qixiao wasn¡¯t that clever, but looking at the current situation, how could he not be?


    The entire scenario seemed meticulously orchestrated.


    Anyone going through something like this would be overwhelmed.


    Ji Yu couldn¡¯t help but grow increasingly suspicious of Gu Qixiao. "Anyway, I think something¡¯s off about him. It¡¯s best if I don¡¯t interact with him anymore."


    She feared there might be more incidentster.


    Upon hearing this, Feng Qinqin wholeheartedly agreed. "If you really stay involved with a guy like him, it¡¯d be terrifying. Today he might scheme against your child; tomorrow who knows, he might take your kidney."


    Ji Yu paused speechlessly for a few moments, but eventually nodded. "Your words may sound crude, but they¡¯re not wrong. He might very well take me away and steal my kidney someday."


    The two reached a consensus this time, deciding not to dwell on Gu Qixiao any longer.


    Poor Gu Qixiao¡ªhe had no idea he had been cklisted and outright ignored by Ji Yu.


    "Did you offend her?"


    Assistant Li looked baffled as he was questioned. "No, absolutely not. At the time, Doctor Ji had even chatted with Miss Song for a bit. She seemed happy afterward, so there¡¯s absolutely no problem."


    He firmly believed this, but Gu Qixiao still felt something was amiss.


    "You say there¡¯s no problem¡ªthen why is Ji Yu acting so indifferent toward me and even outright blocking me?"


    Gu Qixiao couldn¡¯t tolerate such behavior.


    However, he hadn¡¯t been able to figure out the reason all along, leaving him unsure of what to say.


    Assistant Li simply found this matter exceedinglyplicated. "If you truly want to know the reason, why not ask her directly? You might find out what¡¯s going on then."


    Very soon, though, Gu Qixiao discovered that Ji Yu was keeping her distance from him but was unusually close to Lu Xingchen¡ªeven going out for a meal together.


    He stared intently at the photos of Ji Yu and Lu Xingchen on his phone screen, to the point where he seemed ready to drag Lu Xingchen out of the picture and beat him up.

 Chapter 91 Gratitude

    <h4>Chapter 91: Chapter 91 Gratitude</h4>


    "Maybe Doctor Ji just wants to have a meal with a friend?"


    Then why is it so difficult for Ji Yu to have a meal with him?


    Just the thought of this feels like a thorn has lodged itself in his heart.


    Assistant Li dared not meet Gu Qixiao¡¯s gaze, only feeling that the situation was unbearably awkward.


    But since things had gotten to this point, there was no use being overly tense.


    Gu Qixiao said nothing, grabbed his coat, and walked out the door. It seemed he was going to find Ji Yu to have a proper talk.


    Meanwhile, Ji Yu and Lu Xingchen truly didn¡¯t have much going on.


    "Seems it¡¯s quite difficult to befriend celebrities¡ªno matter where you go, you get photographed."


    Ji Yu knew Lu Xingchen disliked such things, but since he was a public figure, this was unavoidable.


    "Thanks for what you did earlier, Xingchen, but I sincerely hope you don¡¯t keep getting attacked because of me. I know exactly what those people are like¡ªdon¡¯t involve yourself anymore."


    She understood Lu Xingchen¡¯s kindness.


    But kindness shouldn¡¯t be used this way.


    Lu Xingchen smiled bitterly. "I only wanted those people to curse you a few times less."


    Looking at it now, though, things seemed to have gone badly.


    Ji Yu was also helpless regarding the situation. "You don¡¯t need to worry about what¡¯s next. They won¡¯te after you. Besides, I¡¯ve already arranged for the police to rify things."


    Whether they choose to believe it or not, that¡¯s their business.


    Ji Yu always handled such matters withposure.


    "This dinner invitation is my way of thanking you for speaking up for me, but if anything like this happens again, I hope you¡¯ll refrain from getting involved."


    Her eyes locked firmly on Lu Xingchen, as if refusing was not an option.


    For a moment, Lu Xingchen really wanted to ask why Ji Yu epted Gu Qixiao¡¯s help but didn¡¯t need his.


    "Yu, no matter when, you can alwayse to me for help. I said I¡¯ll support you always."


    His jet-ck eyes gazed at Ji Yu, filled with suppressed emotions. He had long wanted to confess this to her.


    But he feared that doing so might cost him even their friendship.


    Ji Yuughed bitterly. "Xingchen, I know you¡¯re very good to me, but sometimes things can¡¯t be handled this way. I appreciate your support."


    On the inte, Lu Xingchen¡¯s reputation is significant, and spreading such news does him no favors.


    "Yu..."


    He wanted to say more but understood from Ji Yu¡¯s expression that further exnation might not help.


    "Alright, let¡¯s leave it at that. Xingchen, please remember¡ªsome matters are better left untouched."


    The two parted ways like that. Sitting in his car, Lu Xingchen still looked dazed.


    His agent saw this and immediately knew: Lu Xingchen probably still didn¡¯t stand a chance this time. "Look at Yu¡¯s expression¡ªyou should¡¯ve figured out by now that you¡¯ll never get that chance. Why put yourself through this misery?"


    With a face like his, he could find anyone, yet he chooses someone who doesn¡¯t reciprocate.


    "I know." Lu Xingchen lowered his head, avoiding eye contact with the person beside him.


    How could he not know? He was simply unwilling to ept it.


    But it seemed rejection was the answer once again. Yet, his feelings would never change. Even if Ji Yu refused him, he¡¯d simply return to the way things were before.


    "You, you¡¯re quite the romantic. But Yu really is the type to attract affection."


    Even someone like him thought Ji Yu was worth it.


    It was just unfortunate that fate seemed to have given the two of them no chance.


    Not far from where Ji Yu had walked, she saw Gu Qixiao¡¯s car. Almost instinctively, she wanted to hide.


    But this time, Gu Qixiao¡¯s intent was crystal clear¡ªhe caught up to her in an instant.


    "Why are you avoiding me? Do I really seem so terrifying?"


    He couldn¡¯t understand her behavior.


    Ji Yu frowned, exasperated by his actions. "What exactly do you want? I¡¯ve told you I don¡¯t like you. What you¡¯re doing feels like harassment to me."


    This kind of pestering served no purpose at all.


    Moreover, Ji Yu had yet to investigate matters thoroughly, so she couldn¡¯t have a proper discussion with Gu Qixiao.


    "Why should not liking me mean you can¡¯t talk to me? Do you think I¡¯m the kind of person who¡¯s afraid of such things?"


    He couldn¡¯t ept this.


    Gu Qixiao hade here today to understand why Ji Yu held such thoughts. Her seemingly habitual avoidance frustrated him.


    "I don¡¯t mean anything else¡ªit¡¯s just that some things are still unclear. I don¡¯t want to get too involved with you."


    "Whatever it is, you can ask me. If it involves me, why won¡¯t you just ask me?" His emotions surged but remained under control.


    Ji Yu tried to pull her wrist back, but his grip was relentless. "I don¡¯t want anything to do with you. I¡¯ll figure it out on my own without your interference."


    She had already told him this before, yet he never seemed to take it to heart.


    "You¡¯re talking nonsense." He stared at Ji Yu intensely, refusing to let the matter go.


    "Ji Yu, do you realize how infuriating your attitude is? I said you could ask me¡ªwhy won¡¯t you?"


    Surely the person involved knew the truth best.


    Ji Yu¡¯s expression had be numb. She couldn¡¯t fathom his obsession. "Can¡¯t you tell? If I don¡¯t want to speak, why are you forcing me?"


    There was no need to escte things, leaving both sides embarrassed.


    "How do you know I¡¯m what you think I am if you don¡¯t ask? Don¡¯t you think it¡¯s presumptuous to pass judgment on someone without understanding the situation?"


    He wanted to exin this to Ji Yu clearly.


    "About what you said regarding the ¡¯girlfriend¡¯ thing¡ªI can exin. Song Xuan is my life savior¡¯s sister, so I¡¯m obligated to look after her."


    He paused briefly as he observed Ji Yu¡¯s surprised expression before continuing, "What I said about there being no romantic feelings between us is true. I¡¯d never sacrifice my happiness to repay kindness."


    He gripped her hand, hoping she¡¯d calm down.


    Yet he had no idea Ji Yu truly found their rtionship intriguing.


    "You don¡¯t need to exin your connection with Song Xuan to me. I won¡¯t fall for you."


    She could never like a man as calcting as him.


    Gu Qixiao hesitated, "I know, but you can¡¯t stop me from exining."


    He hadn¡¯t expected things to deteriorate to this extent¡ªbut some people seemed destined to be his nemesis.

 Chapter 92 Nemesis

    <h4>Chapter 92: Chapter 92 Nemesis</h4>


    "I know you don¡¯t care, but that doesn¡¯t stop me from exining everything clearly."


    There were many things she cared about, but it seemed most of them had no resolution.


    "And regarding what you said about my marriage and divorce, I also want to rify that I had no idea about the marriage at the time, and during the divorce, I never even met her."


    He still felt a lingering sense of guilt toward this so-called ex-wife.


    "I know I owe this ex-wife, but I have no idea where I could even find her."


    To him, this situation seemed like one big blur.


    Ji Yu raised her eyebrows slightly, her heart wavering. Gu Qixiao¡¯s expression was indeed one of sincerity¡ªcould a person like him really lie?


    "Everything I¡¯ve said is true. I have no intention of deceiving you. You can ask me about anything you¡¯re doubtful of."


    She stayed silent, appearing as though she were deliberating over something.


    Her delicate face carried an undeniable trace of helplessness.


    "You don¡¯t need to feel helpless over my matters. I¡¯m fully aware of what I¡¯m doing."


    Since everything had now been organized, there was no need to discuss anything further.


    "I have nothing else to ask."


    "That¡¯s not right. Ever since you left the police station, you¡¯ve been distant and indifferent toward me. There¡¯s definitely some issue here." He sounded suspicious about the matter.


    But Ji Yu insisted there was nothing wrong.


    "You don¡¯t need to overthink it. I¡¯ve decided to go back and get some proper rest. Let this mattere to an end."


    "What about my contact information, then?" He hadn¡¯t forgotten he was still stuck in her blocklist.


    "I¡¯ve already restored it." Ji Yu knew that if she didn¡¯t unblock him, this matter would nevere to an end.


    For now, her doubts about Gu Qixiao were temporarily dispelled.


    "Let me take you home." He wasn¡¯t entirelyfortable letting Ji Yu leave on her own.


    "No need. I¡¯ve already called for a driver; he¡¯s waiting outside. Honestly, you don¡¯t need to be so emotional over this incident."


    But how could someone not feel emotional when dealing with someone they liked?


    "I understand how seriously you¡¯ve taken this, which is exactly why I want to exin it to you so earnestly. I don¡¯t think there¡¯s anything wrong with exining things to you¡ªI like being upfront with you."


    At the very least, it¡¯s better than allowing misunderstandings to linger.


    Ji Yu raised her eyebrows slightly. "I understand your point. I¡¯ll head back now."


    After she got in the car, she couldn¡¯t help it.


    When messaging Feng Qinqin, her lips involuntarily curled into a smile.


    [Qinqin, I think I¡¯ve discovered that Gu Qixiao really might not have known about what happened before. He probably isn¡¯t that clever.]


    Perhaps they had all overlooked this detail.


    But as for what would happen after this, well, they¡¯d take things one step at a time.


    Meanwhile, Song Xuan had also learned about Gu Qixiao going out.


    She looked at Assistant Li with a half-smile, her eyes filled with jealousy. "Tell me, why does Xiao always have no time when I visit him, but when it¡¯s something rted to Ji Yu, he¡¯s so urgent and quick to act?"


    This kind of behavior clearly meant affection.


    Too bad the person wasn¡¯t her, Song Xuan.


    "Miss Song, there might have been some misunderstandings here. It¡¯d be best for you not to dwell too much on this. You do still have work to attend to."


    God knows how helpless Assistant Li felt. If he had known the situation would turn out like this, in hindsight, he would¡¯ve never helped out before.


    "Really? Even Assistant Li thinks it¡¯s a misunderstanding. Then why do I feel that Xiao has already fallen deep?"


    She couldn¡¯t understand what it was about Ji Yu that attracted Gu Qixiao, but Ji Yu certainly couldn¡¯t continue living so carefree afterward.


    "This is President Gu¡¯s matter. I¡¯m just an assistant¡ªhow could I possibly understand President Gu¡¯s intentions?"


    He had grown numb to such situations.


    Compared to Song Xuan, Ji Yu was far more considerate.


    Unfortunately, she was just frustratingly hard to pursue.


    When Gu Qixiao returned, he saw the two of them standing near the office doorway, but his good mood kept him from taking issue with it.


    "What department have you assigned Song Xuan to? Why is she still foolishly standing here?"


    He believed there was work for Song Xuan to do.


    But Assistant Li was helpless in this matter.


    "Miss Song might not be too familiar with thepany¡¯s operations yet, so she¡¯s temporarily been assigned as your secretary by your side, President Gu."


    This was the only solution they had.


    Mostly because she was utterly clueless.


    On top of that, Song Xuan wanted to remain close to Gu Qixiao, which led to her current position.


    "Xiao, I know I¡¯m not very capable, but I promise I¡¯ll try hard to learn."


    Her tone was serious as she spoke about this.


    Gu Qixiao frowned, clearly unsatisfied with the arrangement.


    "Brother Gu, earlier, because of scars on my face, I couldn¡¯t bear to go out and meet people. Originally, my brother wanted to take me to college with him, butter..."


    Before finishing her sentence, tears had already started streaming down her face.


    This look of hers left Gu Qixiao at a loss. Thinking back to the past, Gu Qixiao¡¯s mood grewplicated.


    Perhaps he didn¡¯t know how to repay the kindness from back then, which led him to yield repeatedly to Song Xuan¡¯s requests.


    Assistant Li was already ustomed to situations like this and efficiently led Song Xuan back to her seat. Sure enough, her tears had already been wiped away.


    "Miss Song, if you need help with anything, you cane to me. I¡¯ll leave this area to you for now."


    He decided it was better to slip away.


    Gu Qixiao¡¯s mood was rtively good today, so he didn¡¯t dwell on these details.


    Though, seeing the trending news about Ji Yu and Lu Xingchen online was outright irritating.


    "Have someone take all those posts down."


    He didn¡¯t want to see such news.


    Ji Yu noticed this too but assumed it was due to Lu Xingchen¡¯spany being concerned about such matters, so she didn¡¯t pay much attention to it.


    "Yu, what are you nning to do next? Now that you have a child, you can¡¯t keep working like this forever."


    Ji Yuanzhou actually had mixed feelings about the child.


    On one hand, it was Ji Yu¡¯s child. On the other hand, he understood that after the child was born, Ji Yu might find it even harder to ept him.


    "I haven¡¯t decided yet. I can only say this child came as too much of a surprise; even I wasn¡¯t prepared."


    She had originally nned to keep pushing forward in her career, but now faced with this situation, she could only adjust her ns.


    "Since you¡¯ve decided to have this child, you should take responsibility. If you don¡¯t want the child..."


    He trailed off, unable to bring himself to finish the sentence, knowing Ji Yu had already epted the child.


    "Brother, don¡¯t worry. This child is very important to me. You could say it¡¯s a blood connection¡ªmy flesh and blood."


    She had lived on her own for so long that, even though she had the Ji family now, Ji Yu still hoped to have a rtive tied by blood.


    This feeling was truly something unique.


    "Even if you stop working, we can take care of you at home."


    Ji Yuanzhou calmly epted the situation, much like he had upon hearing the news of Ji Yu¡¯s marriage back then.

 Chapter 93: Wish

    <h4>Chapter 93: Chapter 93: Wish</h4>


    But it was clear that Ji Yu still had other things to do.


    Granny Li¡¯s passing this time made Ji Yu realize just how unpredictable life could be.


    So, over this period, she made it a point to visit the orphanage almost every month.


    "Brother, you don¡¯t need to worry about these matters. I¡¯ll handle everything. I¡¯m already an adult."


    As someone capable of resolving everything herself, she didn¡¯t want to add more burdens to her family.


    Ji Yuanzhou didn¡¯t say anything more, just quietly watched Ji Yu as she left.


    He had a foreboding feeling, as if he might lose Ji Yupletely someday.


    Ji Yu wasn¡¯t aware of his thoughts; instead, she was pondering what gifts to bring for the children.


    In the end, she only brought some snacks and toys with her.


    "You don¡¯t need to visit every month, child. I know you have your own work to attend to,"


    said the orphanage director when she saw Ji Yu, worried that these visits might disrupt her.


    "It¡¯s alright, Director Mom. These are things I genuinely want to do. I¡¯m also concerned about these children¡¯s growth, and doing something for them feels worthwhile."


    She still had to teach the children how to paint.


    Ji Yu had also noticed a few promising kids earlier and nned to nurture them properly.


    "These children may be in an orphanage, but they deserve a bright future too."


    This was the very purpose of the orphanage¡¯s existence.


    The director mom felt gratified. "It¡¯s not easy for you, child. Even with your busy schedule, you still find the time to teach them painting."


    She led Ji Yu to a small ssroom nearby.


    "Actually, recently, there have been several teachers who came here to teach them."


    But it seemed the children were only genuinely interested in what Ji Yu brought to them.


    "For now, they¡¯re only learning some basic academic subjects."


    The director mom had been worried about this in the beginning. Seeing now how well Ji Yu got along with the children, she realized they needed a down-to-earth teacher.


    "A teacher?" Ji Yu was a little surprised, knowing that the orphanage likely couldn¡¯t afford to hire teachers.


    "It was Mr. Gu who arranged for the teachers before. I haven¡¯t had a proper chance to thank him yet. He¡¯s probably been too busytely to visit,"


    the director mom said with a tone of admiration when mentioning Gu Qixiao.


    "Mr. Gu really is a good man."


    Ji Yu raised her eyebrows, somewhat surprised by Gu Qixiao¡¯s involvement, and curious about his motives.


    "Did hee here for some kind of project?"


    "It seems he came in response to the government¡¯s earlier call. This time, he came on his own initiative to donate." The director mom¡¯s evaluation of him was exceedingly high.


    Then she seemed to recall that Ji Yu and Gu Qixiao seemed to know each other from before. "Since you know Mr. Gu, why not take this with you on your return? It¡¯s a thank-you gift from the children to him."


    The children had a strong impression of Gu Qixiao as well.


    But they clearly liked Ji Yu more.


    Looking at the small drawing board in her hand, Ji Yu couldn¡¯t help but feel a bit helpless. "Director Mom, there¡¯s nothing particrly close about my rtionship with Mr. Gu."


    She certainly couldn¡¯t bluntly say that Gu Qixiao was pursuing her and, on top of that, was her ex-brother-inw. That would be utterly awkward.


    The director mom was a little surprised. "You just need to deliver it, that¡¯s all."


    This was the first time she¡¯d seen Ji Yu react so strongly regarding someone.


    Ji Yu had no choice; knowing such things couldn¡¯t be easily shirked, she reluctantly agreed.


    "Alright then. I¡¯ll deliver this to Gu Qixiaoter."


    She was already numb to matters involving Gu Qixiao¡ªif need be, she¡¯d just arrange for someone else to deliver it.


    The director mom had no doubts. "Alright, why don¡¯t you go see the children first? I still have to check on their lunch."


    Even though the orphanage had more staff now, the director mom still liked to personally oversee everything.


    When Ji Yu entered the small ssroom, the children were visibly thrilled.


    "Sister Yu, you came to see us again!"


    They looked genuinely happy.


    Ji Yu ruffled their heads. "I heard from the director mom that you¡¯ve been cking off in sstely. Is that true?"


    Xiu looked a bit sheepish. "Sister Yu, we don¡¯t like these teachers, and we don¡¯t want to study."


    "But you won¡¯t always stay in the orphanage forever." Ji Yu gazed at them seriously.


    She understood it was normal for young children to dislike studying sometimes.


    But they couldn¡¯t truly stay in the orphanage forever.


    "In the future, neither the director mom nor I can be part of your lives. I know this might sound a bit deep for you now, but it¡¯s the truth."


    These children were born into hardship, but that didn¡¯t mean their future had to stay that way.


    Xiu seemed puzzled.


    "But is studying the only path to take?"


    "Even if you don¡¯t study, you should pursue things you¡¯re interested in. I¡¯m not forcing you to learn everything, but you must at least master the basics, like reading," Ji Yu said firmly.


    She didn¡¯t expect them to be outstanding elites.


    But she also wouldn¡¯t ept them being illiterate.


    They might not understand now, but as they grew older, they would likelye to see the importance of these words.


    "I know you want to y, but once you¡¯ve learned, you can open up more opportunities for y in the future."


    She gently advised them. Certain decisions still had to be made by the children themselves.


    After all, no one couldpletely dictate another person¡¯s life.


    "You don¡¯t have to follow everything I say, but the future might not turn out as you wish if you don¡¯t."


    Ji Yu¡¯s tone wasn¡¯t harsh; she simply used a calm voice to exin the realities of the future.


    Xiu nodded thoughtfully. "I¡¯ll listen to Sister Yu."


    "Good girl." Ji Yu patted Xiu¡¯s head, her eyes filled with warmth.


    "Your morning sses are done for today. You can go and have lunch now."


    After all, even studying required bncing effort with rest.


    When she took Xiu to the dining hall, she saw the director mom patiently serving food to the children.


    Ji Yu couldn¡¯t help but remember her own time here. But all of it felt so distant now that she could hardly recall many of the memories.


    "You little rascal, did you already bring something to the kitchen again?"


    Ji Yu felt a bit embarrassed. "I brought some snacks for the kids. Don¡¯t worry, Director Mom, they¡¯re absolutely not junk food."


    She looked at the director mom with innocent eyes, and the director couldn¡¯t help but be amused.


    "Fine. Since it¡¯s from Sister Yu, let them all have a taste."


    The director genuinely cared for these children.


    Even with donationsing in, she was always cautious with spending, knowing there were many expenses ahead.


    "By the way, Yu, your brother also donated a sum to the orphanage recently. Be sure to thank him for me when you go back."


    She was sincerely grateful to all the kind-hearted people helping them.


    "My brother?" Ji Yu was taken aback.

 Chapter 94: Gift

    <h4>Chapter 94: Chapter 94: Gift</h4>


    The Ji family used to make fixed annual donations, but this time Ji Yuanzhou clearly donated in his personal capacity.


    "Please thank your brother for me. The Ji family has already helped our orphanage so much; we can¡¯t let them keep spending like this."


    The orphanage director hoped that Ji Yu could live with fewer burdens in the future.


    "I understand."


    Ji Yu was also surprised by this matter but knew her brother¡¯s personality. It was likely due to what happenedst time that Ji Yuanzhou had such thoughts.


    She stayed and yed with the children for a while, but she had a patient consultation in the afternoon and could only remind them to behave.


    "Even if you don¡¯t like it, you still need to learn to read."


    "We know, Sister Yu." The children were very obedient.


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t forget to bring them gifts on her way home.


    She decided to deliver them to Gu Qixiao first so she wouldn¡¯t have to think about another opportunity to meet himter.


    Gu Qixiao was noticeably excited when he heard that Ji Yu had voluntarilye to see him.


    "You¡¯re saying Ji Yu is downstairs?"


    "Yes, Miss Ji said she had something to discuss with you." Assistant Li also assumed there might be something going on between the two of them.


    Little did he know that Ji Yu had onlye to deliver an item.


    Looking at the small sketchboard in his hand, Gu Qixiao immediately understood who had sent it.


    "You went to the orphanage?"


    He knew Ji Yu cared deeply for those children, so he deliberately started with them. Luckily, it seemed to work this time.


    "Thank you for taking care of them. But I know the teacher fees aren¡¯t cheap; I can help cover the costs together with you."


    "As if I can¡¯t afford these expenses." Gu Qixiao looked at Ji Yu with a hint of exasperation.


    "You might have some misunderstandings about the Gu family." Gu Qixiao felt that Ji Yu didn¡¯t seem to realize just how wealthy the Gu family was.


    "I know, but this isn¡¯t something you need to do. You never had the habit of doing charity before." It all started because of her.


    If that was the case, he deserved somepensation.


    Ji Yu was clear-minded about all of this without any ulterior motive.


    Gu Qixiao, however, felt helpless and thought that Ji Yu was perhaps too serious about these matters.


    "You really always leave me at a loss for words. No matter the reason, this was my voluntary donation¡ªit has nothing to do with you."


    He firmly believed this.


    But since he saw Ji Yu, he wouldn¡¯t let her leave so easily. "Let¡¯s have dinner together."


    This time, Ji Yu didn¡¯t refuse.


    However, Gu Qixiao still had some matters to attend to, so he took Ji Yu to his office upstairs.


    As soon as they went up, Ji Yu could feel someone watching her.


    Following the gaze, Ji Yu noticed that Song Xuan also worked at the Gu familypany.


    No wonder she had that feeling earlier.


    "It seems like you and Song Xuan have a good rtionship."


    Ji Yu made the remark without any particr intent, just surprised that Song Xuan worked there.


    "I¡¯ve told you, she¡¯s the sister of someone who saved my life, so she¡¯s only like a sister to me."


    "I didn¡¯t mean anything by it." She felt Gu Qixiao was being overly defensive.


    But this reaction was somewhat understandable. The earlier incident had taught Gu Qixiao that some issues needed clear exnations.


    Ji Yu felt resigned but understood Gu Qixiao¡¯s thoughts.


    "Alright, I get it. So, may I sit in President Gu¡¯s office for a while?"


    She had something to inform Tian and the others about.


    This was Ji Yu¡¯s first time in Gu Qixiao¡¯s office. "Feel free to sit anywhere. I¡¯ll wrap this up shortly."


    He seemed especially motivated this time around.


    Even Assistant Li was being ordered around tirelessly.


    The others, however, were filled with curiosity, wondering about Ji Yu¡¯s identity and why she was in Gu Qixiao¡¯s office as soon as she arrived.


    "Stop overthinking things you don¡¯t need to know."


    Not far away, Song Xuan stood with an unpleasant expression, her anger towards the situation evident in her furrowed brows.


    The others, aware of Song Xuan¡¯s connection, didn¡¯t dare cross her and quickly returned to work.


    Song Xuan, however, brought two cups of coffee to the office.


    "Dr. Ji, what brings you to the Gu family today? Did youe personally to check on my face?"


    Her tone carried a warning, sending a clear message to Ji Yu that this had nothing to do with her.


    Ji Yu frowned. "Sorry, this matter doesn¡¯t seem to have much to do with Miss Song today. I merely came to deliver something to President Gu."


    Her voice was straightforward, giving no room for misinterpretation or ambiguity.


    But Song Xuan felt that Ji Yu was provoking her.


    "Dr. Ji, didn¡¯t you once say you didn¡¯t like Xiao? Why are you now seeking him out on your own?"


    Her words hinted at something more.


    Unfortunately for her, Ji Yu had said multiple times, even in front of Gu Qixiao, that she didn¡¯t like him. By now, Gu Qixiao was immune to such remarks.


    "Song Xuan, as my secretary, you should be at your work station right now."


    He didn¡¯t want conflict between the two women.


    Moreover, what Song Xuan said struck a nerve with Gu Qixiao.


    It was something he couldn¡¯t overlook.


    "Xiao, I was just curious. I¡¯ll get back to work right away."


    She acted innocently, as if her words had been a simple oversight.


    But Gu Qixiao was already growing impatient. "Song Xuan, return to work."


    He didn¡¯t want to borate further.


    Fuming, Song Xuan could only stomp her foot in irritation before turning to leave, though not without ring at Ji Yu onest time before she exited.


    She had always suspected that Ji Yu wanted to climb the socialdder¡ªand here she was, throwing herself right into the mix.


    Ji Yu, ustomed to such situations, remained calm this time around.


    "Song Xuan has a bit of a temper."


    Gu Qixiao was well aware of this. Previously, out of guilt, he had catered to Song Xuan¡¯s every wish.


    Now that he realized the problem, he wasn¡¯t sure how best to resolve it.


    "It¡¯s fine. We don¡¯t really have many interactions."


    The one feeling troubled should be someone else.


    However, Ji Yu could tell that Gu Qixiao truly had no deeper feelings for Song Xuan.


    "You go ahead and handle your work; I¡¯ll step out to make a call."


    She had just received news that a patient urgently needed to see her. Tian wouldn¡¯t be able to manage the situation alone.


    "Sister Yu, the patient is insisting on seeing you. Their condition is also quite serious. Can youe back to take a look?"


    "Alright." Ji Yu saw no reason to dy work because of Gu Qixiao.


    She should¡¯ve been heading back anyway.


    "Stabilize the situation for now. I¡¯m on my way back. Try your best to keep the patient calm."


    She was already walking back as she instructed Tian over the phone.


    Gu Qixiao, knowing Ji Yu still had work to do, nevertheless clung to his desire to have dinner together with her.

 Chapter 95 Dinner Together

    <h4>Chapter 95: Chapter 95 Dinner Together</h4>


    "Since you still have things to do, I¡¯lle pick you up tonight."


    Ji Yu felt a bit helpless, not sure what was going on with him.


    But since he had said this much, it would be awkward to refuse.


    "Alright."


    She figured she might as well go and see what was happening.


    When Ji Yu returned, the patient¡¯s condition had fluctuated.


    His eyes lit up the moment he saw Ji Yu.


    "Miss Ji, I only trust your skills. Can my condition still recover?"


    Half of his face was marked with scars. He desperately wanted an opportunity to remove them but had never found a suitable solution. After seeing the news about Ji Yu, he decided to seek her help.


    "Your scars can indeed be removed, but have you had stic surgery before?"


    "Yes, I¡¯ve tried removing the scars on my face before, but I¡¯ve undergone three surgeries, and none were sessful." As he spoke, tears overflowed his eyes.


    It was clear how much this situation upset him.


    Ji Yu understood that scars like these often impacted one¡¯s daily life.


    "When did the scars on your face first appear? Based on your condition, it seems like hypertrophic scarring."


    She had seen many simr cases before, but none as severe as this.


    "That¡¯s right. I had surgery on my face three years ago. Initially, it was recovering well, but I have no idea why it eventually turned into this."


    He grew emotional as he recounted the story, feeling like the scars on his face were burning to the touch.


    Ji Yu genuinely understood his feelings.


    "Pleasee with me to the consultation room."


    She wanted to get a clearer understanding of his specific condition.


    It turned out that this case was salvageable.


    "I can help you remove these scars, but you must mentally prepare yourself. For the next period of time, you¡¯ll need to strictly follow my instructions."


    She didn¡¯t appreciate patients who didn¡¯t listen.


    "I understand the rules here; I¡¯ll definitely follow them. Once my face recovers, you can ask me to do anything."


    He had been nearly driven mad by the scars on his face. Seeing Ji Yu felt like encountering a savior.


    "Doctor Ji, go ahead and try. I know this is already myst chance."


    The failed surgeries he had undergone before had left him with lingering psychological scars.


    Ji Yu sympathized with his emotions. "You don¡¯t need to be nervous. Since we specialize in this type of surgery, we naturally wouldn¡¯t let you down. As long as you follow our prescribed approach, you have about a ny percent chance of having the scars removed."


    This was a very high likelihood.


    After all, there¡¯s no such thing as a guaranteed one-hundred-percent sess rate in surgery.


    "Mr. Sun, when you head home, start preparing. Since surgery is involved, it¡¯s best to have someone close to you or a family member apany you."


    But Sun Yongxin outright rejected this suggestion. "I can handle it alone."


    Since his face had ended up like this, he had essentially severed all social ties. At this point, he didn¡¯t need anyone¡¯spany.


    "Then let me arrange a caregiver for you."


    Ji Yu understood his mindset and simply rmended the most suitable n.


    Upon hearing this, Sun Yongxin was satisfied and gave Ji Yu a heartfelt smile. But perhaps remembering his face¡¯s hideous scars, he awkwardly turned away.


    "Don¡¯t worry. Even with scars, your face is perfectly normal."


    Ji Yu spoke soothingly, her tone gentle.


    When dealing with patients who truly needed help and were cooperative, Ji Yu always showed patience.


    "Thank you, Doctor Ji."


    After calming down Sun Yongxin, Ji Yu made a rough evaluation of the surgery n.


    "Sister Yu, President Gu is here to meet you. He said you promised to have dinner together."


    Ji Yu hadn¡¯t forgotten this matter. "Got it. Let him wait a bit."


    She needed to finish her work first.


    She took her professional responsibilities seriously, and by the time everything was prepared, it was already 8 pm.


    When she stepped outside, she was surprised to see Gu Qixiao still waiting.


    "I thought you¡¯d already gone home."


    Gu Qixiao showed no signs of anger, instead acknowledging Ji Yu¡¯s diligence.


    "I know you¡¯re busy, so I wouldn¡¯t casually disturb you."


    He smiled at Ji Yu, resembling a boyfriend patiently waiting for his girlfriend.


    Ji Yu suddenly didn¡¯t know what to say.


    "How about I treat you tonight?" She felt a bit guilty.


    She couldn¡¯t let the person inviting her wait this long.


    But Gu Qixiao was oddly stubborn about this. "How could I let a girl pay when we go out?"


    He had already done his research and knew what Ji Yu liked. Naturally, he nned to take her to eat something she¡¯d enjoy.


    Ji Yu had assumed Gu Qixiao would pick a fancy restaurant, but unexpectedly, it turned out to be a hotpot ce.


    "You know I like spicy food?" She was surprised. She didn¡¯t recall giving much indication of this before.


    Seeing Ji Yu¡¯s astonished expression, Gu Qixiao responded proudly.


    "I have my ways." He hadn¡¯t wasted his effort asking the hospital director about Ji Yu¡¯s preferences.


    Plus, during his previous interactions with Granny Li, she had unintentionally revealed a thing or two. He had just been discreet back then.


    Now knowing Ji Yu was single, he wasn¡¯t going to hold back.


    However, he seemed to overlook one detail: Ji Yu chuckled at the sight of him sitting there in a crisp suit and tie. "You¡¯re really going to sit here dressed like that?"


    Everyone around was d in casual attire, and then there was Gu Qixiao, formally dressed and standing out.


    "It does seem a bit inappropriate...," but he hadn¡¯t brought a change of clothes.


    Ji Yu had no choice but to ask the waiter to bring over an apron for Gu Qixiao to put on.


    It made him look much less out of ce.


    "Now, are you finally going to tell me how you knew I liked spicy food?"


    "That¡¯s a secret." Gu Qixiao¡¯s eyes glimmered with amusement, clearly pleased with tonight¡¯s arrangements.


    Ji Yu raised an eyebrow, still unable to figure out where he had gotten the information.


    Nheless, the two had an enjoyable meal together, leaving no need for further inquiries.


    She always had her own perspective on such matters.


    "Do you have time tomorrow toe with me to the orphanage?"


    Gu Qixiao had a keen interest in the orphanage¡¯s affairs and knew how much Ji Yu cared about the children. Naturally, he invited her to join him.


    "No, I¡¯ll need to follow up with a patient tomorrow. I¡¯m not sure if he¡¯ll be satisfied with the treatment n."


    Thinking about this made her feel a bit regretful.


    "You don¡¯t have to be overly devoted to the orphanage just because of me. While I appreciate your efforts, you should approach these things rationally."


    Not everyone has the heart for charity work. Such endeavors can truly take an emotional toll on a person.

 Chapter 96 Understanding

    <h4>Chapter 96: Chapter 96 Understanding</h4>


    "It seems like your attitude towards each patient is a bit different."


    At first, he thought Ji Yu was very irritable, but now it seemed not to be the case.


    Ji Yu couldn¡¯t help but roll her eyes, "I only like cooperating with my patients. I don¡¯t really owe you anything, so why speak in that tone?"


    To be honest, Ji Yu was particrly repelled by patients like Song Xuan.


    Almost every time she faced Song Xuan, she couldn¡¯t help but lose her temper.


    "I¡¯ve always had this attitude, it¡¯s just that Song Xuan is particrly excessive."


    Speaking of this matter, Ji Yu couldn¡¯t help but feel some sympathy for Gu Qixiao, "You¡¯ll still have to interact with him for some timeter, and you might be treated the same way. I can only say that you sure have patience."


    When she said this, Gu Qixiao was also a bit helpless, but he knew that Song Xuan had a bad temper, which was somewhat rted to him.


    "Song Xuan just behaves this way because no one disciplines her. I¡¯m really guilty about her brother¡¯s issue."


    Gu Qixiao had always kept the past issue in his heart.


    Seeing Gu Qixiao¡¯s face showing a guilty expression, Ji Yu understood well, "A loss of life like this would make anyone feel guilty, but one should distinguish right from wrong. Some things indeed need to be repaid, but there should be a limit."


    She felt deeply about this matter.


    "Considering how much you¡¯ve helped the orphanage recently, I¡¯ll be straight with you. Sometimes, your guilt might only drive another person¡¯s overexploitation."


    She sighed while eating hotpot, realizing that Gu Qixiao¡¯s temper was actually quite good.


    At least for now, he seemed to be a good person.


    "You really are a good person, but one shouldn¡¯t be too soft-hearted."


    This kind of mindset would cause problems sooner orter.


    Looking at Ji Yu, he didn¡¯t know what to make of it.


    But before they could continue talking, Feng Qinqin walked up to Ji Yu with aplicated expression.


    "Yuyu, what¡¯s going on here?" Her tone was a bit conflicted, also wanting to know the rtionship between Gu Qixiao and Ji Yu.


    Ji Yu¡¯s hand with the chopsticks trembled, not expecting to run into Feng Qinqin here.


    "Qinqin, what are you doing here?" She actually wanted to know what was going on.


    But having a meal with Gu Qixiao shouldn¡¯t be an issue.


    She tried to appear asposed as possible, instead wondering why Feng Qinqin was here.


    "Yuyu, shouldn¡¯t you check your chat history before asking me this question?"


    Ji Yu suddenly recalled today¡¯s chat history with Feng Qinqin.


    If she remembered correctly, Feng Qinqin did say she wasing here to check in, but she said she had something to do and refused directly.


    Now caught in the act, it couldn¡¯t be more awkward.


    Ji Yu looked at Feng Qinqin apologetically, "This might be a misunderstanding."


    She actually didn¡¯t expect Feng Qinqin to be here, and hadn¡¯t thought about such a situation at all.


    Feng Qinqin sighed, "Forget it, you two keep eating. I¡¯m just next door, let me know if you need anything."


    She looked at Gu Qixiao warily, as if he were some kind of menace.


    Gu Qixiao was a bit surprised, but everything seemed a bit off.


    "You know Feng Qinqin?"


    He wasn¡¯t that familiar with Feng Qinqin but was aware of their coboration.


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t know how to exin, "She¡¯s my best friend."


    In any case, Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t know about past events.


    She was toozy to exin much; if Gu Qixiao figured it out himself, he¡¯d know the truth. If not, then so be it for now.


    Apparently, Gu Qixiao wasn¡¯t thinking along those lines.


    "Why does she look at me as if I¡¯m going to do something to you?"


    He should have appeared gentlemanly from the start.


    "Maybe it¡¯s because of the past coboration; Qinqin mentioned it before."


    Speaking of the coboration, Gu Qixiao admitted his mistake and felt sorry for the Feng family.


    "What I did back then was indeed wrong." He was ready to apologize to Feng Qinqin.


    As Feng Qinqin was also alone, they invited her to join their table.


    Feng Qinqin considered it and did not refuse, sitting next to Ji Yu, seemingly wanting to see what Gu Qixiao was up to.


    "President Gu, you wouldn¡¯t have any other intentions asking our Yuyu out for dinner, would you?"


    She was very blunt, showing disdain for Gu Qixiao.


    "I¡¯m pursuing Doctor Ji." When he said this, he couldn¡¯t help ncing at Ji Yu.


    It was clear from his eyes that he really had feelings.


    But Feng Qinqin almostughed out loud at his words, wondering what was wrong with him. He didn¡¯t cherish it when married, why does he want to get together now?


    "President Gu, some things, once missed, can¡¯t be returned. No matter how well you perform now, you can¡¯t change reality."


    She looked at Gu Qixiao with disdain, "Since President Gu wasn¡¯t prepared before, you¡¯ve already missed the opportunity."


    Gu Qixiao thought Feng Qinqin was talking about their unpleasant past and wanted to rify.


    "I should exin this. I know Yu might have some misunderstandings about me, but I never intended to do anything to her back then."


    Instantly, Feng Qinqin understood. He still didn¡¯t realize he was the ex-husband? Gu Qixiao¡¯s reaction was a bit slow.


    She had no interest in teasing Gu Qixiao further, "Yuyu, you should keep your distance from such people; who knows what other schemes they have."


    She was somewhat worried about Ji Yu.


    It felt like Ji Yu had changed her mind.


    Ji Yu paused, "I know."


    Her attitude towards Gu Qixiao was always like that; she just thought he seemed like a good person now.


    Now it was Gu Qixiao¡¯s turn to be anxious, "I really didn¡¯t have such thoughts before; I didn¡¯t intend to harm you. I hope you can forgive me."


    His gaze at Ji Yu was eager, as if he couldn¡¯t rest until the matter was resolved.


    "I know."


    What else could it be about?


    Gu Qixiao was momentarily confused.


    Knowing Feng Qinqin was Ji Yu¡¯s friend, he simply apologized to her.


    "What happened with the coboration was indeed my fault. I hope Lady Feng won¡¯t mind."


    Little did he know, when he went to apologize back then, he wasn¡¯t this sincere.


    Feng Qinqin didn¡¯t know what Gu Qixiao was thinking.


    It¡¯s hard to guess his sincerity or pretense.

 Chapter 97 Apology

    <h4>Chapter 97: Chapter 97 Apology</h4>


    Gu Qixiao took this matter very seriously.


    "I can apologize for everything I did wrong before, but it won¡¯t stop me from pursuing Ji Yu."


    His gaze toward Ji Yu carried a hint of longing.


    This expression made Feng Qinqin feel a little ufortable.


    "You two aren¡¯t even together yet. What¡¯s with those eyes of yours?"


    Anyone who didn¡¯t know better would think they had already been together for a long time.


    Feng Qinqin didn¡¯t even know how to ridicule Gu Qixiao properly.


    "Yuyu, this matter is still your decision to make. No matter what you decide, I will support you."


    As it stands, as long as Gu Qixiao doesn¡¯t have any issues with his character, it¡¯s not impossible for them to be together.


    "Let¡¯s eat first." Ji Yu didn¡¯t want to discuss this topic.


    However, perhaps out of guilt, Gu Qixiao showed extra care toward Feng Qinqin.


    But Feng Qinqin could sense Gu Qixiao¡¯s politeness at his core; only when he looked at Ji Yu did his gaze carry warmth.


    "Alright, I can see it clearly now. I¡¯m just a bit unnecessary here today."


    Feng Qinqin looked at Ji Yu with a hint of grievance but also hoped her close friend could find a good partner.


    At the very least, someone who absolutely wouldn¡¯t bully her.


    Ji Yu chuckled, "You¡¯re never unnecessary."


    For a moment, Gu Qixiao actually found himself envying Feng Qinqin.


    At the very least, she could receive Ji Yu¡¯s uniquely focused attention.


    After this meal, Feng Qinqin¡¯s perception of Gu Qixiao improved slightly.


    Especially since he even offered to take the two of them home.


    [Yuyu, I have to say, I think he¡¯s not too bad. If you¡¯re interested, you could consider epting him.]


    Ji Yu read the message on her phone and felt unsure about how to respond.


    However, Gu Qixiao was indeed not a bad person.


    "Are you really not nning to go to the orphanage with me tomorrow?"


    Gu Qixiao still hoped Ji Yu could apany him.


    "I have some other things to take care of. Let¡¯s schedule a time together next time."


    However, after Ji Yu returned home, she couldn¡¯t help but wonder why Gu Qixiao was going to the orphanage tomorrow, and why the orphanage¡¯s director wanted her to give him the gifts.


    After thinking for a long time, Ji Yu still couldn¡¯t figure it out.


    She simply decided to rest and focus on the next day¡¯s ns.


    The next day, Ji Yu immediately showed the n to Sun Yongxin.


    "This is how the recovery is projected to look. You can decide whether you ept it or not. Of course, adjustments can still be made."


    Looking at the face identical to the one he used to have, Sun Yongxin nodded quickly, "I just want this face. Thank you, Doctor Ji."


    He didn¡¯t even know what to say.


    The situation in front of him made him so emotionally stirred that it was hard to contain himself.


    "You don¡¯t need to be too emotional. This is one of the most fundamental things. I¡¯ll do my best to help you recover, so don¡¯t feel pressured."


    With the n arranged, the surgery proceeded much more smoothly.


    After the surgery ended, Sun Yongxin was already eager with excitement.


    "You absolutely must remember not to touch the wound carelessly. During this period, you¡¯ll be staying in the hospital with professional caregivers. Of course, you can also have your family apany you, though caregiver services aren¡¯t cheap."


    Ji Yu gave the most optimal rmendation.


    But Sun Yongxin insisted on hiring a caregiver.


    He didn¡¯t even want to contact his family.


    Ji Yu understood that some people are just naturally like this, so she simply let it go and hoped he would recover as expected afterward.


    Meanwhile, Gu Qixiao had already arrived at the orphanage.


    The orphanage¡¯s director had a pretty deep impression of him.


    "Mr. Gu, it¡¯s so kind of you toe in person. In truth, the children¡¯s living conditions have improved significantly. I¡¯m already very grateful."


    The arrangements Gu Qixiao made in the past had indeed been very impactful.


    "I heard a new child recently came to the orphanage and seems to have congenital heart disease?"


    Such cases are quitemon in orphanages.


    For children with conditions like these, most don¡¯t live very long.


    "Yes, this child was abandoned at the orphanage¡¯s doorstep at just a year and a half old. The situation isn¡¯t very promising."


    The director spoke about this matter with a tinge of helplessness.


    There was only so much they could do; all they could hope was that this child could pull through.


    "I contacted a hospital earlier. They said the surgery can be done for free, so at least there¡¯s a chance. Please take the child there to give it a try."


    At least there was a chance to survive.


    The director was a bit shocked. "No cost?"


    "Yes, this is all arranged through coboration with a charitable organization. I secured a slot through someone I know. Rest assured, it¡¯s entirely legitimate."


    With Gu Qixiao¡¯s abilities, it wasn¡¯t surprising that he could aplish something like this.


    The director¡¯s impression of Gu Qixiao deepened once again.


    "Mr. Gu, earlier you brought up something I couldn¡¯t quite understand ¡ª are you pursuing Yu?" She hadn¡¯t forgotten this matter.


    When Ji Yu¡¯s name was mentioned, Gu Qixiao¡¯s brows softened with a trace of warmth. "I am indeed pursuing her. Even if nothing hase of it yet, eventually we¡¯ll be together."


    He was very confident about their future.


    The director hesitated, as though she had something she wanted to say.


    "I know about her past, and I ept it fully."


    To Gu Qixiao, these things all meant the same.


    "Mr. Gu, you really are quite remarkable."


    The director still wasn¡¯t sure how toment on the matter.


    She just hoped Ji Yu could find happiness in the future.


    "Since you¡¯ve already mentioned you¡¯re pursuing Yu, could I trouble you to tell me her likes or anything she particrly favors?"


    He had always wanted to understand Ji Yu¡¯s preferences, but since the two hadn¡¯t interacted for long, he hadn¡¯t had much opportunity to learn about her.


    "If you ask me... well, Yu was particrly attached to a doll when she was young. However, back then she was still a child, and eventually, another kid took the doll, and it disappeared."


    Thinking about it, the director felt nostalgic for the days when everyone was still there. Now, they had all grown up and no longer needed her to dwell upon these memories.


    "That doll held special significance for Yu. Though the past can¡¯t be undone, if you want to give her a gift, perhaps you could choose something like that."


    Gu Qixiao thought of Ji Yu as a little girl and couldn¡¯t help but feel a pang of heartache.


    At that time, what thoughts might little Ji Yu have had?


    Back then, he hadn¡¯t been familiar with Ji Yu, but now he ought to make up for past regrets.


    The director, seeing Gu Qixiao¡¯s earnest demeanor, started to think that they might truly have a chance together in the future.


    "If you truly wish to pursue Yu, all you need to do is trade sincerity for sincerity. Yu is an exceptionally kind child."


    When she talked about Ji Yu, her eyes were filled with pride.

 Chapter 98 Methods of Pursuit

    <h4>Chapter 98: Chapter 98 Methods of Pursuit</h4>


    Gu Qixiao was also quite curious about Ji Yu¡¯s story.


    He had heard quite a bit about her here.


    In the orphanage matron¡¯s words, Ji Yu seemed like a different person altogether.


    "I didn¡¯t expect her to have such a quiet side."


    "Everyone has to grow up at some point, but this child is probably the most aplished one toe out of our orphanage." The matron was clearly invested in Ji Yu¡¯s life.


    Not sure what Gu Qixiao liked, she only hoped that their rtionship couldst.


    "I will take good care of Yu."


    When talking about Ji Yu, a softness came over Gu Qixiao¡¯s heart.


    The matron didn¡¯t say much more and simply took him on a walk around the orphanage.


    This time, Gu Qixiao hade prepared. The next day, he even shared some orphanage stories with Ji Yu.


    "It seems like the matron really cares for you."


    Ji Yu was slightly surprised that the matron had shared so much with Gu Qixiao.


    "Maybe it¡¯s because I¡¯m a rather sincere person."


    When he said this, he gazed directly at Ji Yu, as if trying to make her understand something.


    How could Ji Yu not know what he was trying to imply?


    "Whether you¡¯re sincere or not, I¡¯ll find out in time."


    Originally, Ji Yu had nned to chat with him properly.


    But an unexpected situation arose with one of her patients, and she had to go check it out first.


    "Sister Yu, these people im to be Sun Yongxin¡¯s family. They¡¯ve been insisting on seeing him, but Sun Yongxin made it clear that he doesn¡¯t want to meet them, saying they have no rtionship."


    Upon seeing Ji Yu, a flicker of awe appeared in the eyes of the men, but their attitudes weren¡¯t exactly the friendliest.


    "We¡¯re here to see Sun Yongxin; it has nothing to do with you. Just let us meet him."


    Ji Yu raised her eyebrows, unfazed by their behavior. "If you want to see the patient, you need their consent first. I need to make sure my patient¡¯s emotions remain stable. Given your attitude, I can¡¯t allow you to enter."


    These visitors didn¡¯t seem well-intentioned. Who knew what other motives they might have?


    Ji Yu wasn¡¯t about to let her patient meet just anyone casually.


    "What¡¯s that supposed to mean? We¡¯re his own siblings, and we need your permission to see him? Don¡¯t make us shut this hospital down tomorrow."


    They red at Ji Yu arrogantly, clearly nning to create trouble if they couldn¡¯t meet Sun Yongxin.


    "I¡¯m sorry, but my patient said he doesn¡¯t want to see you. If you want to have a meeting, I suggest youmunicate with him in advance."


    Clearmunication was important in situations like this.


    Initially, Ji Yu had no other intentions. However, seeing their aggressive demeanor only made her more resolute in denying them entry.


    "Judging by your attitude, I seriously doubt whether you¡¯re here for a visit or looking to start a fight. Patients need a peaceful environment to recover."


    She instructed someone to call security.


    The group was visibly displeased with this turn of events.


    "What do you mean? We¡¯re meeting him today, no matter what. Who knows what shady activities your corrupt hospital might be involved in¡ªmaybe even murder or arson. If anything were to happen, we wouldn¡¯t even find him afterwards!"


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t believe a word of their tirade.


    In fact, if anyone seemed more likely tomit such crimes, it was them.


    "Feel free to call the police. I will not allow you to enter the patient¡¯s room."


    Ji Yu was firm and unmoving; no matter what they said, she refused to concede.


    As they looked about ready to use force, the security guards arrived just in time.


    Without sparing them a nce, Ji Yu instructed, "Escort them out immediately. No matter what excuses theye up with, I absolutely won¡¯t allow visitors like this."


    Who knew what these people were really here for?


    Only after ensuring they were removed did Ji Yu head to Sun Yongxin¡¯s room.


    As expected, Sun Yongxin didn¡¯t seem to be in a good state.


    "They came, didn¡¯t they?"


    Even with gauze wrapped around his face, the fear on him was palpable.


    Ji Yu could tell his distress was serious. "You don¡¯t need to worry. I noticed their aggressive behavior and knew you wouldn¡¯t want to see them, so I sent them away."


    Patients needed peaceful environments for their recovery. The attitude of those visitors suggested they might escte things if allowed in, which was a risk that had to be avoided.


    His eyes filled with gratitude. "Thank you, Doctor Ji. I don¡¯t know them well, and please make sure they don¡¯te in to see me."


    He had long been numb to their behavior and didn¡¯t want any more entanglements.


    Ji Yu frowned slightly, curious about what had brought things to this point with his family.


    "I can promise that nothing will happen to you while you¡¯re in this hospital. But you¡¯ll need to stay calm and carefully think through what to do next."


    Such individuals were unlikely to give up after just one attempt.


    Ji Yu¡¯s stance remained resolute¡ªtroublemakers were not wee.


    "Thank you. That alone is more than enough."


    At least for now, he could rest without being disturbed.


    Only he knew how deeply desensitized he had be to situations like this.


    Ji Yu wasn¡¯t sure about his family¡¯s backstory, but since things had reached this point, she also instructed the downstairs security to keep an extra eye on them.


    What she hadn¡¯t expected was that they actually dared to call the police.


    The officers arrived, leaving Ji Yu with no choice but to allow some form of encounter.


    "Officer, my patient does not wish to meet these individuals. You¡¯re wee to check on Sun Yongxin, but please try to minimize their interaction."


    These visitors clearly had ulterior motives, and it was best to avoid any unnecessary confrontations.


    The police understood the situation. "You all stay here. We¡¯ll go check on the patient first."


    They weren¡¯t concerned with the family drama¡ªonly with ensuring Sun Yongxin¡¯s safety.


    When Sun Yongxin saw the police, he froze.


    "I don¡¯t want to see them. Every word I¡¯ve said is my own. The rtionship between them and me was severed long ago."


    To him, they were nothing more than strangers now.


    His words carried a simmering anger.


    Understanding that Sun Yongxin was safe and sound, the officers quickly left.


    "Officer, they had previously contacted Sun Yongxin. Since they knew he was alive and still used this as grounds to call you, isn¡¯t that a false police report?"


    Such incidents deserved proper consequences.


    The officers were exasperated. "We¡¯ll certainly educate and penalize them, but your approach to this issue seems quite... inflexible. Can¡¯t families just talk things through?"


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t respond.


    Yet in her heart, she knew some bonds couldn¡¯t simply be reasoned through.


    To call certain people "family" was a title they might not even deserve.


    "If there¡¯s nothing else, we¡¯ll take our leave."


    Ji Yu watched them go, knowing this group likely wouldn¡¯t get away unscathed, and then she returned to her office.


    "Tian, keep a close eye on Sun Yongxin¡¯s mood. Make absolutely sure nothing happens."

 Chapter 99: Making Trouble

    <h4>Chapter 99: Chapter 99: Making Trouble</h4>


    Although she didn¡¯t know the exact conflict within this family of three, Ji Yu still needed to ensure Sun Yongxin¡¯s safety during his hospitalization.


    Tian hesitated for a moment, "Sister Yu, getting involved in this will only cause trouble for us. These people don¡¯t seem easy to deal with. Are you sure you want to continue intervening?"


    He had always been cautious about getting involved, but Ji Yu was exceptionally serious about this matter.


    "Since he is our patient, we have to take good care of him." Ji Yu¡¯s expression remained unchanged, clearly having made up her mind long ago.


    "Tian, do you think these people are good people?" It wasn¡¯t that Ji Yu judged people by their appearance, but their recent behavior had been utterly outrageous.


    "No matter how big the issue is, it has to wait until after his discharge. For now, the priority is to stabilize his emotions."


    Tian sighed helplessly, aware that Ji Yu was right, and nodded decisively.


    "I understand, Sister Yu."


    Since Ji Yu had made arrangements, no matter how much this family wanted to cause amotion, they¡¯d have to see if they could actually pull it off.


    That evening, Ji Yu had nned to head back to the Ji family, but before she could get into the car, someone blocked her way.


    "This is the girl who¡¯s been meddling? Well, today I¡¯ll teach her a lesson and see if she dares to interfere again."


    Ji Yu¡¯s delicate brows furrowed slightly, and her face began to show signs of impatience. "How much longer are you nning to pester me? You know it¡¯s illegal to abduct me."


    She couldn¡¯t understand the actions of the people before her.


    But the man clearly wasn¡¯t about to reason with her; he decided to tie her up first and deal with the restter.


    Without hesitation, he shoved Ji Yu into the back seat of the car. Unable to resist, Ji Yu could only let him have his way for now.


    "You seem so arrogant usually, little girl. Where¡¯s your arrogance now?"


    He drove the car to a deste area.


    Ji Yu tried to stay as calm as possible. "What exactly are you trying to do?"


    Surely he wasn¡¯t nning tomit murder for revenge?


    The man¡¯s thick hands stroked across Ji Yu¡¯s porcin-white face a few times. "Take a guess. Out here, alone in the wilderness, just the two of us¡ªwhat do you think we¡¯d do?"


    Ji Yu¡¯s expression darkened as she bit down on his hand fiercely.


    "Bitch!" He pped Ji Yu hard across the face, and a red handprint immediately appeared on her delicate cheek, making her look pitiful.


    "What¡¯s your endgame here?" Ji Yu took a deep breath, not wanting to waste more time arguing.


    "Release me now, and we can still talk this out. Otherwise, do you think you can evade thew?"


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t care about the handprint on her face; she just wanted him to let her go.


    But the man wasn¡¯t buying it. "Do you think I dared to grab you because I¡¯m afraid of being caught? Little girl, tonight we¡¯re going to have some fun."


    As he spoke, his thick hand reached for Ji Yu¡¯s cor. Ji Yu¡¯s eyes burned with disgust, but being tied up, she was powerless to resist.


    "Aren¡¯t you afraid I¡¯ll call the police and have you arrested?"


    "Go on, call them. Let¡¯s see if the cops will pity you when they see how things are." He sneered, his face leering as his pudgy cheeks piled into folds that made Ji Yu feel nauseous.


    Just as Ji Yu was about to speak again, there was a sudden *bang*! Blood trickled down the man¡¯s forehead.


    The man let out a howl of pain, and before he could turn around, he was grabbed by the cor and flung into a nearby patch of grass like a dead pig.


    Gu Qixiao removed his jacket and draped it over Ji Yu, his expression colder than she had ever seen. "Are you hurt?"


    He held Ji Yu in his arms, as if afraid that something might happen to her.


    Ji Yu was surprised by his arrival. "I¡¯m fine. He didn¡¯t seed."


    Still, Gu Qixiao¡¯s demeanor was unlike anything she¡¯d ever seen from him before.


    Gu Qixiao gently touched Ji Yu¡¯s face, noticing the handprint on her cheek.


    "Looks like I went easy on that guy just now."


    He lowered his head to conceal the darkness in his eyes, not wanting to scare Ji Yu with his expression.


    Ji Yu adjusted her wrists and felt a mix of shock and relief at Gu Qixiao¡¯s arrival. But she hadn¡¯t forgotten about the man lying in the grass like a lifeless pig.


    "What about him?"


    Gu Qixiao stood up and casually kicked the man twice. "Someone wille to deal with him. Don¡¯t worry about his life."


    His tone sounded indifferent, but the man could see the icy, terrifying look in Gu Qixiao¡¯s eyes. It was as if he were staring at a corpse.


    "Please... Doctor Ji, aren¡¯t you a doctor? You must have a kind heart. Take me back with you!"


    Blood still smeared his face as he clung to Ji Yu¡¯s leg like a vengeful ghost.


    Ji Yu frowned, her cheek still bearing the mark of his p. "I¡¯m a doctor, not a charity worker. Why should I take you back?"


    Besides, didn¡¯t he im to know this area well?


    She couldn¡¯t be bothered with him and decisively got into Gu Qixiao¡¯s car.


    Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t say much either, but as they left, he "identally" stepped on the man¡¯s fingers.


    "President Gu, I know I was wrong¡ªplease..."


    Before he could finish, all he got in response was the exhaust fumes of the departing car.


    In the car, Ji Yu reached up to deal with the p mark on her face, but Gu Qixiao was already ahead of her, pulling out an ice pack to gently apply to her cheek.


    "I¡¯m sorry I waste." He felt deeply guilty about what had happened to Ji Yu.


    Seeing the clear handprint on Ji Yu¡¯s delicate face stirred indescribable feelings inside him.


    Ji Yu felt a bit embarrassed. "It was partly my fault. I knew these people weren¡¯t good but still chose to get involved."


    She should have been more cautious.


    All of this could¡¯ve been avoided if she had handled things better.


    She wanted tofort Gu Qixiao, but looking at his somber expression, he seemedpletely unlike the Gu Qixiao she remembered.


    "I didn¡¯t know you look like this when you¡¯re angry."


    Ji Yu had always been curious about Gu Qixiao, and now, seeing him like this, she suddenly felt he seemed like someone truly reliable.


    "I¡¯m not angry. I¡¯m feeling guilty. If I¡¯m angry, it¡¯s at that man."


    He had heard about the man before, but he never expected him to target Ji Yu. "He¡¯s a well-known scoundrel from the Sun family. However, the Sun family has fallen on hard times over the years, and for him to still do something like this¡ªit seems his lessons haven¡¯t been harsh enough."


    The thought of Ji Yu almost getting hurt by such a person filled Gu Qixiao with disgust.


    "The Sun family?"


    "Yes. The Sun family¡¯s situation is ratherplicated. They used to be somewhat influential, but after their leader suddenly stepped down three years ago, their decline began." Gu Qixiao still remembered the general details but had no interest in the family¡¯s affairs. All he cared about was the injustice Ji Yu had suffered.


    Ji Yu raised her brows slightly. "It seems that the people whoe to me for treatment aren¡¯t exactly ordinary folks."


    Sun Yongxin, it turns out, had such a background. Still, what were they trying to achieve bying to Sun Yongxin?

 Chapter 100 Punishment

    <h4>Chapter 100: Chapter 100 Punishment</h4>


    "You don¡¯t need to worry about this matter. I¡¯ll handle that Sun Shou. You won¡¯t have to deal with this kind of situation again."


    When dealing with others, Gu Qixiao¡¯s patience was limited, and it was unlikely he¡¯d let them act recklessly again.


    Ji Yu raised an eyebrow. "What are you nning to do to him?"


    "You¡¯ll find out soon enough." He had no intention of telling Ji Yu the details.


    He knew Ji Yu probably wouldn¡¯t be able to ept such a dark way of handling things yet. It would be better to secretly deal with this man first.


    "Don¡¯t do anything illegal. Someone like him isn¡¯t worth it. Just send him to the police station instead."


    Ji Yu tried to propose apromise, but Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t seem too interested in the suggestion.


    "Don¡¯t worry, I won¡¯t get into trouble."


    But he didn¡¯t specify how he was nning to deal with Sun Shou.


    "Get some rest. The marks on your face should fade by tomorrow morning. Remember to apply an ice pack."


    He looked at Ji Yu with a trace of heartache but was unsure how else he could care for her.


    When Ji Yu got out of the car, she didn¡¯t forget to remind Gu Qixiao, "It¡¯s better not to blow this matter out of proportion."


    This time, Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t agree.


    It seemed clear that Sun Shou was in big trouble this time.


    She thought everyone had already gone to bed and wouldn¡¯t notice the marks on her face. But as soon as she pushed open the door, she saw Ji Yuanzhou sitting on the sofa, obviously waiting for her to return.


    "What¡¯s with the handprint on your face? Did Gu Qixiao hit you?"


    Looking at the marks on Ji Yu¡¯s face, his expression turned dark. His actions, however, were pragmatic¡ªhe quickly found some ice in the fridge and handed it to her.


    Feeling guilty, Ji Yu avoided looking directly at Ji Yuanzhou. "It wasn¡¯t Gu Qixiao. He just saved me."


    She knew Ji Yuanzhou and the others would also be worried about her safety.


    As she spoke, she hesitated but still exined the matter with Sun Shou in detail.


    "Brother, it¡¯s really not that serious. See? I¡¯m fine."


    But in Ji Yuanzhou¡¯s eyes, this was his sister¡ªsomeone he couldn¡¯t bear to see get hurt. And now seeing her like this, how could he not be concerned?


    "If we know who did it, there¡¯s no way I¡¯ll let it slide. You go get some rest first."


    He intended to see what Gu Qixiao nned to do next.


    Ji Yu felt helpless, unsure what was going on with the both of them.


    But for now, she couldn¡¯t stop them, so she could only return to her room to wait for updates.


    She also wondered how things were on Gu Qixiao¡¯s end.


    The truth proved that the situation on Gu Qixiao¡¯s side was far less ideal than Ji Yu imagined.


    "President Gu, I really didn¡¯t know that youngdy had anything to do with you! If I¡¯d known, I wouldn¡¯t have dared to do this."


    Sun Shou was crying messily, his bloated face even more grotesque as if someone had just punched him.


    "Oh, really?" Gu Qixiao sat nearby, staring coldly at Sun Shou.


    In the dim basement, Gu Qixiao appeared even more intimidating. For a moment, Sun Shou didn¡¯t know how to exin himself to get out of trouble.


    "President Gu, I know you care about Doctor Ji! Even if you gave me ten guts, I wouldn¡¯t darey a hand on her. I just wanted to visit my uncle, but she wouldn¡¯t let me. That¡¯s why I tried to scare her."


    He made it sound like the situation was just a misunderstanding.


    Gu Qixiao sneered. "Oh, you remember you have an uncle? If I recall correctly, he¡¯s been estranged from your family for a while now."


    He had his men lift Sun Shou off the ground. "I don¡¯t care what your intentions were. You¡¯ll stay here for the next few days. Rest assured, you won¡¯t die."


    He ignored Sun Shou¡¯s pleading gaze, turned, and left the basement. His demeanor made it clear he didn¡¯t intend to deal with him further¡ªfor now.


    Sun Shou let out a sigh of relief, thinking the worst was over.


    But when the basement grew dark, he finally understood what true fear was.


    There was nothing in this ce, only himself. It was an istion that felt unbearable and terrifying.


    He didn¡¯t know what he could do to escape and could only beg Gu Qixiao over and over, hoping to be released.


    Meanwhile, Gu Qixiao¡¯s mood gradually cooled down.


    "Assistant Li, I want all the Sun family¡¯s information on my desk tomorrow."


    "Understood." Assistant Li, fully aware of Gu Qixiao¡¯s anger, didn¡¯t dare say much and just hoped the matter would pass quickly.


    "President Gu, Miss Ji¡¯s brother is here. Shall I let him in?"


    "Let him in." Gu Qixiao had some impression of Ji Yuanzhou.


    But this meeting was, of course, because of Ji Yu.


    When Ji Yuanzhou entered, the first thing he noticed was the dangerous aura around Gu Qixiao, which left him somewhat satisfied.


    "I want to see Sun Shou."


    He didn¡¯t waste words. His main goal was to stand up for Ji Yu, so naturally, he wanted to meet the perpetrator.


    "He¡¯s currently locked in the basement. If you want to see him, you¡¯ll have to wait until tomorrow. Otherwise, if he dies, we won¡¯t be able to settle things properly."


    Gu Qixiao wasn¡¯t nning to kill Sun Shou¡ªhe had restrained his temper for a while. But seeing Ji Yu hurt had pushed him to take action this time, though murder wasn¡¯t on the table just yet.


    "Have you found out the reason?" Ji Yuanzhou didn¡¯t press further but was curious why exactly Sun Shou targeted Ji Yu.


    "It seems there¡¯s been a patient recently who bears a striking resemnce to the Sun family¡¯s younger son."


    The younger son had once been a prominent figure, but for unknown reasons, had stepped down and disappeared. His sudden reappearance had obviously stirred attention.


    "Yu probably didn¡¯t know his background and simply helped with the surgery, while also trying to protect the patient¡¯s safety."


    Gu Qixiao understood Ji Yu¡¯s principles and knew these issues had been brewing, although Ji Yu had likely fended them off until now.


    "I¡¯ll meet with the Sun family¡¯s younger son tomorrow to see what he wants."


    This time, Ji Yu¡¯s injuries wouldn¡¯t be taken lightly. The Sun family matter needed to be resolved thoroughly.


    Looking at Gu Qixiao¡¯s expression, Ji Yuanzhou felt conflicted for a moment. "How did you find out that Yu had been taken?"


    He wanted to understand their rtionship further, but judging by Gu Qixiao¡¯s actions, it seemed there wasn¡¯t an immediate opportunity to do so.


    "I originally nned to pick her up for dinner, but when she didn¡¯te downstairs, I saw her bag left beside her car."


    The evidence had been so obvious that it was clear Ji Yu had been in trouble.


    Fortunately, the surveince cameras were still working, allowing him to find her quickly.


    "I care deeply about her. I know, as her brother, you¡¯re also concerned for Ji Yu, but you can rest assured¡ªI will handle this matterpletely."

 Chapter 101 Big Brother

    <h4>Chapter 101: Chapter 101 Big Brother</h4>


    He deliberately emphasized the word "brother," clearly paying extra attention to this matter.


    But Ji Yuanzhou was not to be outdone. "Of course, I know I¡¯m Yu¡¯s brother, it¡¯s just that certain people had best not cross the line, or things might get ugly."


    He didn¡¯t have any good impression of Gu Qixiao. From the moment he saw him, he knew there was no way they could ever be friends.


    Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t care. "Is that so? Who knows, maybe one day I¡¯ll be your brother-inw. Surely you understand something so simple, don¡¯t you?"


    His determination to win over Ji Yu was unwavering.


    Ji Yuanzhou snorted coldly, clearly scoffing at the idea.


    Gu Qixiao remained unaffected by his reaction. "If there¡¯s nothing else, please head back. If you want to see her, all you need to do is let Assistant Li know."


    With that, Gu Qixiao turned and went upstairs without another nce.


    And so, the matter ended up unresolved for now.


    But Ji Yuanzhou had a foreboding feeling, as though he was about to lose Ji Yu once again.


    The next day, Ji Yu waited until the mark on her face hadpletely faded before going downstairs.


    "Yu, since your face has just recovered, you could hold off before going back to work for a while."


    He was somewhat worried about Ji Yu.


    But Ji Yu was even more concerned about the situation at the hospital.


    "It¡¯s fine, I¡¯m just going to check in. There are no surgeries today anyway, but I can¡¯t stop worrying about what¡¯s happening at Chongxin."


    After saying this, Ji Yu hurriedly ran out, as if afraid they¡¯d keep her at home.


    Ji Yuanzhou¡¯s words were cut off halfway, and he could only watch Ji Yu leave like that.


    In fact, he had wanted to say he could give her a ride back.


    At the moment, Ji Yu¡¯s mind was consumed with Sun Yongxin¡¯s issues; everything else had to take a backseat.


    "Mr. Sun, I believe we need to have a good talk. I don¡¯t mean anything else by it, but I do want to discuss the behavior of your family members."


    As she brought this up, her expression carried a trace of helplessness.


    "Did they cause trouble for Miss Ji?"


    Sun Yongxin was still unaware of the events from the previous night, his face full of confusion.


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t intend to drag it out. "I was kidnapped by Sun Shoust night. Fortunately, someone saved me in the end. Still, this incident serves as a wake-up call for me. I think I have the right to know what¡¯s going on."


    Previously, she wasn¡¯t involved in these matters and could approach them calmly, even feeling that Sun Yongxin wasn¡¯t a significant issue.


    But given how things had progressed, Ji Yu had to uncover the truth. Otherwise, what was the point of having gone through the kidnapping?


    Sun Yongxin was visibly shocked. "Miss Ji, are you alright?"


    "Apart from being threatened and getting pped, I wasn¡¯t harmed. I can ensure the safety of my patients, but as for this ordeal, I still need some answers."


    She sat to the side, eyes clouded with doubt as she pondered what on earth was wrong with this family.


    Sun Yongxin sighed helplessly. "Doctor Ji, this situation certainly stemmed from myck of arrangements. I didn¡¯t expect them to go this far."


    He expressed his apologies for what Ji Yu had endured and hoped she would let go of the matter.


    "I ept your apology, but as for Sun Shou¡¯s case, it¡¯s not in my hands. Whether I care or not makes no difference."


    Sun Yongxin paused briefly. "Forget it. I suppose I shouldn¡¯t meddle in their affairs. I was the head of the Sun family before, but now that I¡¯ve handed over power, I naturally have no further ties to them."


    He had once been prominent, but now he seemed rather despondent.


    Ji Yu raised an eyebrow. "Is that so? Then I¡¯m curious¡ªdo you n to keep hiding from them?"


    With a rtionship like this, they were bound to sh again sooner orter.


    She didn¡¯t think avoiding them was a viable strategy.


    And with Sun Shou¡¯s stuntst night, those people would almost certainly stir up trouble again soon.


    "I understand you might not want to engage with them, but as long as you¡¯re at Chongxin, they¡¯ll inevitablye looking for trouble."


    For previous incidents, Ji Yu could step in to shield him, but with the tactics they¡¯d used, she wasn¡¯t about to let everything go unchecked.


    "I get your point. I have indeed caused Dr. Ji quite a bit of troubletely."


    While they spoke, Tian came running over in a hurry. "Sister Yu, those people from yesterday havee again, shouting for us to hand over their son."


    A decent-sized crowd had gathered to watch themotion.


    Ji Yu felt a headacheing on, understanding that it was crucial to resolve this properly to preventrger issues down the road.


    "I see."


    She hadn¡¯t even stepped out when the door to the ward was kicked open.


    Two women and two burly men crowded into the room, instantly filling the space.


    When they saw Ji Yu, there was clear hatred in their eyes. "You little bitch, where did you take my son?"


    Her words spat out "little bitch" without a second thought, showingplete disrespect for Ji Yu.


    Ji Yu frowned. "I suggest you mind yournguage. As for your son¡¯s whereabouts, what does that have to do with me?"


    She had no idea where Sun Shou was. Based on the situationst night, they should already be aware of it, yet they had the audacity to pull something like this.


    The nerve they had was truly astonishing.


    And yet, they showed no shame, clearly unwilling to let Ji Yu off the hook.


    "You little bitch, my son came looking for youst night, so you must have hidden him."


    "Oh? Then why don¡¯t you tell me what your son wanted from me and when he came to see me?" Ji Yu¡¯s small face disyed anger, but getting upset with people like this already felt like losing the upper hand.


    All she felt was that these people were utterly unreasonable.


    "What do you mean by that?"


    Seeing Ji Yu¡¯s reaction, they found her particrly irritating.


    They knew full well what had happened the previous night but didn¡¯t dare to state their case outright.


    "That¡¯s something I should be asking you. Is exining things clearly really so hard? All I need is an exnation from you¡ªwhat exactly did he want from mest night?"


    There was no way she¡¯d fear people like this. Moreover, it should¡¯ve been obvious who was in the wrong here¡ªdidn¡¯t they understand that?


    On the hospital bed, Sun Yongxin sighed in exasperation. "How much longer are you nning to keep this nonsense up? Do you really think your disgraceful acts need to be aired publicly?"


    In the past, he¡¯d walked away because of their unreasonable antics. Seeing them escte further now only filled him with deeper disappointment.


    One of the women turned visibly meek upon seeing Sun Yongxin. "Second Brother, you can¡¯t me me for this. I just want to find my son. Besides, we¡¯ve been worried about you since you haven¡¯te home in years."


    Though her words sounded considerate, the calcting glint in her eyes was impossible to hide.

 Chapter 102: Scheming

    <h4>Chapter 102: Chapter 102: Scheming</h4>


    Even Ji Yu could see what was going on¡ªhow could Sun Yongxin possibly not know?


    "Put away your petty thoughts. I¡¯m here treating you, and yet you¡¯re causing trouble¡ªwhat¡¯s your motive? As for Sun Shou, he¡¯lle back naturally once he¡¯s had time to reflect."


    His wound was already aching, and now seeing them only made him feel even more irritable.


    "Second Brother, you can¡¯t be like this! We¡¯re all thinking of what¡¯s best for the Sun family. Don¡¯t you know how unreasonable this girl is..."


    "Unreasonable in what way?" Gu Qixiao entered and immediately noticed the crowd of people.


    He could guess they were here to stir up trouble.


    His gaze carried a hint of annoyance as he looked at them.


    "The Sun family, out and about, still acting so brazenly even after all this time¡ªdo you really think your family is still what it used to be?"


    Gu Qixiao¡¯s attitude toward them was indifferent, yet he immediately ced Ji Yu behind him for protection, making it ringly obvious whose side he was on.


    "Who do you think you are? Are you this little whore¡¯s lover? What gives you the right to talk about the Sun family?"


    The woman kept chattering, but Sun Yongxin had already recognized Gu Qixiao.


    "So it¡¯s the young master of the Gu family." Sun Yongxin had a strong impression of Gu Qixiao.


    He also knew the current status of the Gu family. Seeing that the others still hadn¡¯t realized who they were dealing with, he felt disappointed.


    "Mr. Sun has fallen so low, and yet he chooses not to rein in these so-called family members?" Gu Qixiao¡¯s gaze at the group was full of disdain.


    These people posed no real threat, but their behavior was undeniably irritating.


    Unwilling to let Ji Yu stay around such people, he decisively called for the bodyguards to clear the room.


    "If you darey a hand on me today, I¡¯ll call the police!" The woman was unreasonable, sitting stubbornly on the ground as if unworried about the bodyguards.


    The bodyguards, however, didn¡¯t care whether she was sitting or standing¡ªthey directly grabbed her by the cor and dragged her out.


    "It¡¯s done," Gu Qixiao softly reassured Ji Yu, concerned that the encounter might have frightened her.


    Ji Yu sighed, "I¡¯m fine. It¡¯s just that what they said was definitely unpleasant."


    Even without Gu Qixiao, Ji Yu wouldn¡¯t have let them off easily today.


    Some things may seem like soft persimmons, but biting into them might leave your mouth filled with blood.


    "Good to hear you¡¯re okay." Gu Qixiao turned to look at Sun Yongxin.


    From the moment Sun Yongxin saw Gu Qixiao, he knew there was no way this matter would be resolved easily.


    "I didn¡¯t expect Doctor Ji to be acquainted with President Gu, but I hope President Gu can be lenient in this matter. The Sun family these days..."


    He¡¯d rather not admit how dire the Sun family¡¯s situation had be, but ignoring it wouldn¡¯t change the facts.


    "My leniency depends on them learning some manners. All the things they¡¯ve done¡ªhas Mr. Sun truly not seen any of it?"


    He couldn¡¯t bear to see Ji Yu being treated unfairly.


    After all, Ji Yu was only being targeted because she stepped up to protect someone. Yet now, the person she had protected was standing on the opposing side.


    Ji Yu had also noticed the situation but didn¡¯t know what to say at the moment.


    "Honestly, it¡¯s not a big deal for me. But, Mr. Sun, you should handle these people yourself moving forward. I¡¯ll do my best to treat your injuries, but I won¡¯t be involved with the rest of this anymore."


    No point in arguing with someone¡¯s rtives only to end up being the subject of their resentment.


    Sun Yongxin opened his mouth as if wanting to say something, but ultimately sighed in vain. "Forget it. Doctor Ji has already done enough. If there¡¯s anything you need in the future, let me know¡ªconsider it me owing you a favor."


    He knew Ji Yu had gone above and beyond and didn¡¯t want to push it any further.


    "Go ahead with your work. I have some things I¡¯d like to discuss with Mr. Sun."


    Even if Ji Yu chose to step aside from this matter, the grievances she¡¯d suffered deserved reparations.


    Ji Yu was concerned about what Gu Qixiao might do. "I¡¯m not upset about this anymore. You really don¡¯t need to..."


    "I won¡¯t do anything to him." Gu Qixiao wouldn¡¯t make things difficult for Sun Yongxin, but he definitely wouldn¡¯t let things slide either.


    Seeing no alternative, Ji Yu returned to her office.


    Gu Qixiao turned his full attention to Sun Yongxin without hesitation. "Mr. Sun, since you¡¯ve severed ties with the Sun family, I suppose their survival or ruin shouldn¡¯t matter to you anymore."


    His first words were more a threat than anything elsepletely different from how he behaved around Ji Yu.


    Even Sun Yongxin was momentarily caught off guard. "President Gu, there¡¯s been a misunderstanding. I ask that you refrain from rushing to such conclusions."


    For someone of his age to have to plead with a younger person like this¡ªit stung his pride.


    Whenever he thought back to earlier incidents, his heart felt tight with difort.


    "So, what you mean is that Yu¡¯s grievances over the past days can just be ignoredpletely?"


    Gu Qixiao found the notion absurd.


    Judging by his expression, it was evident how angry this matter still made him.


    "That¡¯s not what I mean. I acknowledge Doctor Ji¡¯s grievances, but there are alternative ways to make amends. For instance, I could offer one percent of my shares to Miss Sun¡ªwould that suffice?"


    Such an amount would ensure lifelong financial security for one person and showed considerable sincerity.


    "Alright."


    Gu Qixiao¡¯s goal was simply to secure justice for Ji Yu; the rest was of little importance to him.


    When Gu Qixiao walked into Ji Yu¡¯s office with the contract in hand, Ji Yu blinked in surprise.


    "Did you force him to sign this?"


    "Of course not. Pressuring someone to sign a contract makes it meaningless¡ªthis is merelypensation for you." He hadn¡¯t done anything beyond what was necessary.


    Though Sun Shou might suffer some consequencester, Ji Yu would receive the most perfect rpense from all of this.


    For a moment, Ji Yu didn¡¯t know how to respond. Perhaps it was the unexpected side of Gu Qixiao¡ªthis unfamiliar determination¡ªthat left her stunned.


    "You seempletely different from before."


    Her memories of Gu Qixiao included traces of silliness, but the present situation painted a wholly different picture.


    Gu Qixiao chuckled. "I only act silly when ites to you. In this matter, where you¡¯ve clearly been treated unfairly, of course I¡¯ll help you find fairness."


    He wasn¡¯t particrly passionate about most things, but when it concerned Ji Yu, he was meticulous to the point of obsession.


    Ji Yu¡¯s heart stirred slightly, though she didn¡¯t show it outwardly. "Didn¡¯t you say the Sun family has already fallen? What¡¯s the point of epting their shares?"


    Wouldn¡¯t those shares just be worthless in the future?


    "Since you now have these shares, I¡¯d never let Sun Corporation copse. Their management isn¡¯t great, but it simply means you¡¯ll have to settle for slightly less profit."


    He still thought Ji Yu was being shortchanged.


    Seeing that Gu Qixiao had ns to extort even more benefits for her, Ji Yu hurriedly stopped him.


    "Let¡¯s leave it at this¡ªit¡¯s already enough."

 Chapter 103 Contentment

    <h4>Chapter 103: Chapter 103 Contentment</h4>


    She was fairly content with these results.


    But she was also curious as to why Gu Qixiao had prepared so much.


    "Of course, I want to do everything for you perfectly."


    He knew very well what Ji Yu needed.


    Plus, this situation had originally dragged Ji Yu into it for no apparent reason.


    "Since they¡¯re causing you trouble, they¡¯ll have to pay a price."


    And so, Ji Yu unexpectedly received one percent of the shares.


    Honestly, it was kind of funny.


    "What are you nning to do about Sun Shou?"


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t want Gu Qixiao to dirty his hands over such a person.


    "Rx, I¡¯ll just have him detained for a few days. He¡¯ll return on his own after that."


    He didn¡¯t have any intention of dealing with Sun Shou. Besides, he still had to continue courting Ji Yu, so naturally, he had no time for such concerns.


    Ji Yu took these matters seriously, but deep down, she worried that if things kept progressing this way, she might actually end up liking Gu Qixiao.


    That evening, Ji Yu directly invited Feng Qinqin to a hotpot restaurant, intending for Feng Qinqin to scold her into rity.


    "Isn¡¯t this a good thing? He even helped you gain those shares. If it were someone else, they¡¯d be over the moon by now. Why do you still look so unhappy?"


    Feng Qinqin thought it was an undeniably great situation.


    "Just think, not only can you piss off the Sun family, but you can also lie back and earn money from their pockets. Isn¡¯t that fantastic?"


    Though that¡¯s how it was said, Ji Yu was afraid that the person who gave her these things might end up finding his way into her heart.


    "I don¡¯t want to owe anyone favors."


    "This doesn¡¯t count as owing a favor. If it were me, I¡¯d definitely help you handle this too." She was serious about the matter, worried about how best to arrange things moving forward.


    Besides, Ji Yu shouldn¡¯t suffer any losses in situations like these.


    "You just overthink everything. If you didn¡¯t have such high morals, you¡¯d have already duped Gu Qixiao until he didn¡¯t know which way was up."


    Ji Yu chuckled. Such deceit wouldn¡¯t aplish anything¡ªit would inevitably reveal one¡¯s truest self eventually, so why bother?


    "I know I don¡¯t like him, which is why I can firmly refuse. But honestly, the shares thing did surprise me, and I am grateful for his help."


    Even Feng Qinqin developed a newfound respect for Gu Qixiao after this incident.


    "To be honest, I think you two suit each other quite well. That silly, lovestruck side of him only appears around you¡ªit¡¯s proof that Gu Qixiao¡¯s got a love-struck personality."


    These days, who doesn¡¯t want a lovestruck partner?


    "But I don¡¯t want to muddle into a rtionship with him again so carelessly."


    Their marriage back then¡ªa matter Ji Yu hadn¡¯t been able to fullye to terms with even now.


    "Besides, he still has so many unresolved issues around him. Even if I wanted to be with him, I¡¯d have to think everything through first."


    Her delicate face carried a trace of conflict, her brows knotted in deep thought.


    "Honestly, this might be the first time a man has ever caused you this much bother," Feng Qinqin teased Ji Yu mercilessly.


    But deep down, she mulled over whether Ji Yu might truly need someone to take care of her.


    "You might not be in trouble right now, but who knows what¡¯ll happen in the future? Having someone by your side could really be a good thing."


    Though it didn¡¯t necessarily have to be Gu Qixiao.


    Ji Yu said nothing but began pondering the idea.


    They all understood that some decisions couldn¡¯t be made impulsively, or everyone involved might end up suffering.


    "I brought you here to knock some sense into me, but it turns out you¡¯re even quicker than I am to shift your stance."


    Feng Qinqin had already had a few drinks, her face flushing slightly. "You wouldn¡¯t understand¡ªI don¡¯t even know how to exin it¡ªbut after dealing with Cai Xun, I¡¯ve realized that some men are simply impossible to get along with."


    That¡¯s why she felt that Gu Qixiao, who was protecting Ji Yu, was a good man.


    At least when the two were together, Ji Yu wouldn¡¯t be mistreated by others.


    "You¡¯ve already got Gu Qixiao wrapped around your finger. What¡¯s there to worry about?" She simply felt that Ji Yu and Gu Qixiao were a perfect match.


    At least she wouldn¡¯t have to overthink all those inexplicable issues.


    "Honestly, Gu Qixiao may be a bit silly, but everything else about him is pretty good."


    Ji Yu remained silent, her expression tinged with hesitation. Seeing her in this somewhat dazed state, Feng Qinqin grew concerned about her safety and personally took her home.


    On the way, Feng Qinqin, possibly under the influence of alcohol, clung to Ji Yu and started crying. "Yuyu, I really wish I had someone to protect me too, but the ones I meet are all jerks."


    She cried pitifully, her emotions swirling with no way to calm them.


    Ji Yu frowned, unsure how best to address Feng Qinqin¡¯s feelings. "You¡¯ll meet someone."


    "That¡¯s how Ifort myself too, but I still feel awful. Yuyu, if you meet someone who treats you well and likes you, don¡¯t hesitate¡ªdon¡¯t wait until it¡¯s toote."


    She cried heartbreakingly, but deep down, she mostly hoped Ji Yu wouldn¡¯t end up like her.


    Ji Yu sighed lightly. "I know, but you shouldn¡¯t keep dwelling on this either. Cai Xun isn¡¯t worth it."


    She understood that while Feng Qinqin didn¡¯t bring up certain things, it didn¡¯t mean they hadn¡¯t happened.


    "Who said I care about Cai Xun? The person I care about will never even notice me." She waved her hand dismissively, trying to appear carefree.


    But the current situation seemed far beyond her control.


    She cried harder, her anguish apparent. "Yuyu, why am I so unlucky? If only I could be like you."


    Part of her genuinely envied Ji Yu.


    Yet she knew that her best friend¡¯s good fortune deserved blessing. "Yuyu, do you think I should go pray at a temple to turn my luck around?"


    Ji Yu was exasperated, though a faint smile tugged at her lips. "Are you resorting to superstition now?"


    "How is this superstition? It¡¯s my unwavering belief in love!" Feng Qinqin dered firmly.


    Talking about this made her stop crying; she now appeared numb to the whole ordeal.


    "I¡¯ll go pray tomorrow¡ªyou never know, it might work." She was already leaning heavily into superstition.


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t know what to say but could only hope she¡¯d soon find her own happiness.


    "Yuyu, will you bless me?"


    "If the person you find treats you well, I¡¯ll naturally bless you. Don¡¯t give up just like that." She gently soothed Feng Qinqin¡¯s feelings.


    She also knew that these days had been tough on Feng Qinqin, so having some time to vent like this was probably for the best.


    At least it might spare her from encountering any more unwanted entanglements.


    "As long as you¡¯re happy, I¡¯ll absolutely wish you the best."

 Chapter 104: Intimate Relationships

    <h4>Chapter 104: Chapter 104: Intimate Rtionships</h4>


    Ji Yu really liked the way Feng Qinqin looked when she smiled.


    But the current situation was indeed a bit ufortable.


    Seeing that Feng Qinqin was about to fall asleep, Ji Yu quickly helped her into her house.


    "Yuyu, aren¡¯t you staying over for the night?"


    The Feng family knew how close their rtionship was and naturally worried about Ji Yu¡¯s safety upon seeing her.


    "I¡¯m fine, I have work tomorrow, and it¡¯s a bit far from here."


    She still needed to return and check on some things.


    This time, Ji Yuanzhou didn¡¯t ask where Ji Yu was going. "Just let me know if you¡¯ll be backte. I¡¯m worried something might happen to you again."


    He recalled what Gu Qixiao had saidst time and felt a bit dissatisfied with how he had handled things before.


    Ji Yu nodded. "Brother, you don¡¯t have to keep waiting for me. How could so many things happen all the time?"


    She had been staying vignttely, ensuring that nothing simr would happen again.


    Ji Yuanzhou¡¯s expression was serious. "Even if you¡¯re cautious, you can¡¯t avoid the schemes of those who act in the shadows. I know you probably think I¡¯m meddling, but you must listen to me on this matter."


    He didn¡¯t want anything to happen to Ji Yu.


    Seeing his earnest expression, Ji Yu couldn¡¯t bring herself to say anything more.


    "Brother, I understand."


    But when Ji Yu got busy, she easily forgot such matters.


    Moreover, Gu Qixiao had been exceptionally proactive recently. As soon as Ji Yu finished work, the first person she saw was almost always Gu Qixiao.


    "Sister Yu, when are you two nning to get together?" Even the neers were curious. They had seen Ji Yu and Gu Qixiao dining together for so long, yet there was still no official confirmation of their rtionship.


    Ji Yu¡¯s expression became a little awkward. "Actually, we¡¯re just friends."


    It had to be said that Gu Qixiao had been appearing around here far too often recently, to the point where things had developed like this.


    Ji Yu felt conflicted. "You guys shouldn¡¯t make wild guesses. This is something that will absolutely never happen."


    She could only try to clear it up for now.


    Otherwise, if they brought it up againter, and Gu Qixiao happened to be there, wouldn¡¯t it be super awkward?


    But they refused to believe her and insisted there must be something between the two of them.


    "Sister Yu, you weren¡¯t like this before. You used to treat meeting other suitors like a mission impossible. But now you¡¯re meeting this one every single day."


    The group sized up Ji Yu, finding the whole situation extremely peculiar.


    Ji Yu was slightly stunned and only then realized that, indeed, she and Gu Qixiao saw each other every single day. This was something that had never happened before.


    During dinner that night, Ji Yu kept pondering over this, looking visibly distracted.


    "You don¡¯t like tonight¡¯s dishes?"


    He cared deeply about such things. Almost every day, he chose meals based on Ji Yu¡¯s preferences.


    Ji Yu sighed softly. "That¡¯s not what I mean. I¡¯m just wondering how you find the time to have dinner with me every day."


    Previously, Gu Qixiao had seemed incredibly busy, like he didn¡¯t have a moment to spare for Ji Yu.


    Yet recently, he had been circling around Ji Yu nonstop.


    To Ji Yu, the current situation felt a bit surreal.


    "I know what you¡¯re trying to say, but these are things I do willingly."


    He seemed calm and collected.


    What Ji Yu didn¡¯t know was that Gu Qixiao was anything but idle.


    It was just that someone else was bearing the burden in his stead.


    Back at the office, the exhausted Assistant Li looked utterly drained. If anyone desperately wanted these two to start dating already, it would definitely be Assistant Li.


    "If it makes you ufortable, I can make adjustments."


    He had no principles when it came to Ji Yu.


    As long as Ji Yu wasn¡¯t interested in anyone else, he could maintain his calm demeanor.


    "That¡¯s not what I mean. I¡¯m just worried that meeting so often might lead to misunderstandings."


    She decided it was better to address this matter directly.


    "There¡¯s no misunderstanding. I¡¯ve been openly pursuing you. I made that clear long ago."


    His pursuit of her had always been out in the open.


    For a moment, Ji Yu was at a loss for words. She couldn¡¯t deny that this man was indeed quite different.


    "I can change anything you don¡¯t like, but you absolutely can¡¯t turn down my dinner invitations. I don¡¯t care about others¡¯ opinions."


    He cared only about Ji Yu.


    As long as Ji Yu wasn¡¯t ufortable with his actions, there was no need to worry about anyone else.


    "Fine."


    Not knowing what else to say, she could only agree for now.


    "I¡¯ll take you home." He didn¡¯t feel at ease letting Ji Yu go back alone.


    The concern he and others had shown hertely hadn¡¯t gone unnoticed by Ji Yu, who felt a bit helpless. "You all really don¡¯t need to look after me like this. I understand these matters and don¡¯t need anyone else¡¯s help."


    She certainly wouldn¡¯t stumble in the same ce twice.


    However, Gu Qixiao insisted on escorting her home, personally watching her go inside before leaving.


    Ji Yu had to admit that some things were indeed hard to resist.


    Song Xuan, who had long been aware of this, had been keeping a close watch on Gu Qixiao¡¯s actions these past few days.


    "Assistant Li, don¡¯t you think working overtime like this is exhausting? Isn¡¯t all this stuff supposed to be Xiao¡¯s responsibility? This situation with Xiao is really inappropriate."


    In her view, Gu Qixiao had never neglected work for anyone before.


    Yet recently, he didn¡¯t seem to care at all about it.


    Assistant Li frowned. "Miss Song, this isn¡¯t something you shouldment on. Besides, President Gu has already handled most of the critical matters himself before delegating the rest to me."


    When it came to key issues, Gu Qixiao wouldn¡¯t make any mistakes.


    But what Song Xuan wanted was for Gu Qixiao to stay by her side¡ªor at least remain at the office, which was far better than spending his time with Ji Yu.


    "I¡¯m just saying thattely, Xiao seems to be neglecting these matters too much. I didn¡¯t mean anything else. You should understand what I mean, right, Assistant Li?"


    She stared at Assistant Li, trying to urge him into action to bring Gu Qixiao back.


    "I¡¯m sorry, Miss Song, but that¡¯s not something I can decide."


    Song Xuan frowned, growing increasingly impatient with Assistant Li. She was already considering firing him the moment she solidified her rtionship with Gu Qixiao.


    Knowing there was no way to convince Assistant Li, she had no choice but to leave for now.


    Looking at the empty vi and the fruit knife on the table, she hesitated for a moment before finally picking up the knife and slicing deeply into her arm.


    [Xiao, have you abandoned me?]


    After sending the photo and message, she copsed to the side.


    When Gu Qixiao saw the message, his brows knit tightly. "Head back to the vi."


    He hurriedly rushed back and called 120 (emergency services) on the way.


    Seeing Song Xuan lying on the floor, his heart filled with endless irritation.


    "Thisdy has lost a lot of blood and needs to be taken to the hospital immediately. Family members, please follow."


    The nurse quickly performed a check and rushed her into the ambnce.


    Gu Qixiao sighed but didn¡¯t dare dy, following them to the hospital.

 Chapter 105: Forced by Death

    <h4>Chapter 105: Chapter 105: Forced by Death</h4>


    Song Xuan¡¯s condition was clearly not good. ording to the doctor, if she had been brought in anyter, she¡¯d have been gone.


    Gu Qixiao couldn¡¯t understand why Song Xuan, who was fine just a moment ago, ended up like this.


    "The patient¡¯s condition is somewhat unstable. It¡¯s best not to agitate her anymore."


    Seeing how anxious Gu Qixiao appeared, the doctor instinctively treated him as Song Xuan¡¯s husband. "You should also pay attention to the patient¡¯s emotions. It¡¯s best to stay by her side often. Judging by her current state, the patient likely has some psychological issues."


    Gu Qixiao frowned, feeling at a loss about Song Xuan¡¯s situation.


    He simply called Assistant Li over to figure out what was going on.


    "Today, Miss Song did mention you. Judging by her demeanor, she probably still hopes to be with you."


    This wasn¡¯t exactly a secret¡ªSong Xuan had talked about it before. However, Gu Qixiao had always refused her.


    "After finding out you were pursuing Miss Ji, her emotions have been consistently unstable. You see..."


    Assistant Li hesitated to continue, leaving the decision to Gu Qixiao in hopes he would provide an appropriate solution.


    He couldn¡¯t just dismiss Song Xuan carelessly anymore.


    Gu Qixiao frowned deeply; he clearly had no intention of being with Song Xuan. "I¡¯ll talk to her properly."


    He only thought Song Xuan was overly stubborn, but actually being with her was absolutely impossible.


    When Song Xuan woke up and saw Gu Qixiao, a hint of a smile appeared in her eyes. "Xiao, you do care about me, don¡¯t you?"


    She desperately hoped that Gu Qixiao truly cared for her.


    Gu Qixiao frowned, unable to understand the situation before him. "Why did you choose to cut your wrist?"


    For the past while, he¡¯d been following his n and hadn¡¯t interacted with Song Xuan much. That didn¡¯t mean things should have escted to this extent.


    "Xiao, I just missed you too much. I know you might find me repulsive, but I simply can¡¯t bear to watch you love someone else. If you really like someone else, you might as well let me die."


    She looked at Gu Qixiao with determination in her eyes.


    For a moment, Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t know what to say.


    Her obsession was so deep that resolving it seemed almost impossible.


    "Song Xuan, there¡¯s no need to make things difficult for yourself. I can help you meet someone you like. You can find anyone else, but you¡¯ll never be my wife."


    This was something that had to be made clear in advance.


    Gu Qixiao was very certain about who he had feelings for now.


    "Is it because of that Ji woman?"


    She looked at Gu Qixiao with burning eyes, as though she¡¯d lose control altogether if he confirmed it.


    Gu Qixiao felt a bit helpless, unsure how to exin the current situation.


    "I¡¯m pursuing Doctor Ji, but I don¡¯t want you to make trouble for her."


    He firmly remembered what Ji Yu once told him: If you love someone, don¡¯t have lingering ties to others.


    "Xiao, why are you so heartless to me? If you don¡¯t love me, I¡¯ll die right here, right now."


    As she spoke, she began tearing at the gauze on her wrist again, as if determined to die if Gu Qixiao wouldn¡¯t love her.


    Gu Qixiao was exasperated by her behavior. He had already considered this matter before, but seeing this scene now left his ns utterly disrupted.


    "Even if you keep acting out like this, I won¡¯t love you. What¡¯s the point?"


    Such actions weren¡¯t necessary at all.


    He only wished Song Xuan would stop causing trouble.


    Yet, Song Xuan was so fixated on this. "Xiao, the person I love is you. Even if you find me the most wonderful person in the world, they wouldn¡¯t be you. I tried not to disturb you in the past, but I realized I couldn¡¯t do it."


    She cried pitifully, but Gu Qixiao only found the situation troublesome.


    Some matters were better resolved sooner rather thanter.


    "Song Xuan, I know you love me, and I appreciate it. But love can¡¯t be forced. I¡¯m not trying to provoke you; I just think your thoughts are too extreme."


    Such ways of thinking werepletely unreasonable.


    He sighed lightly, hoping Song Xuan could calm down. "Please don¡¯t keep going down this path. In the end, the only one hurt will be you."


    "But Xiao, Miss Ji doesn¡¯t love you either. So why are you still pursuing her?"


    For a moment, Gu Qixiao was at a loss for words. His situation did seem somewhat simr to Song Xuan¡¯s, but the two of them were fundamentally different.


    "Xiao, if Ji Yu doesn¡¯t love you, why are you so insistent? Wouldn¡¯t it be better to be with me instead?"


    She had loved Gu Qixiao for so long¡ªhow could she give up now?


    "Song Xuan, let it go. Take this time to rest. I¡¯lle see you, but we¡¯ll never be together."


    His words were blunt, leaving no room for her to hold onto hope.


    Sometimes, it was better to endure short-term pain than prolonged agony.


    For her, this might even turn out to be a better oue.


    Watching his retreating figure, Song Xuan cried heartbrokenly, "Xiao, you¡¯re going to regret this. You¡¯ll regret not loving me!"


    She desperately hoped that Gu Qixiao would turn back, but he didn¡¯t spare her even a nce.


    Her sobs gradually subsided, but her resentment toward Ji Yu only grew.


    Just thinking about Ji Yu made her gnash her teeth in anger.


    Meanwhile, Ji Yu found it unexpected that she hadn¡¯t heard from Gu Qixiao all day.


    "President Gu didn¡¯te today, so it looks like Sister Yu can go home on time today."


    Everyone teased Ji Yu, and she could only smile helplessly.


    "Maybe he had something to take care of. It¡¯s pretty normal, actually."


    No one should be expected to always spend their time on someone else.


    But what Ji Yu didn¡¯t anticipate was receiving a message from Gu Qixiao as soon as she got home.


    [Sorry, I had something to take care of today and couldn¡¯te. I¡¯ll see you tomorrow.]


    When Ji Yu saw this message, she didn¡¯t know what to feel.


    [It¡¯s okay, I can go home by myself.]


    She didn¡¯t need to rely on anyone to apany her.


    "Yu,e see who¡¯s here!"


    Madam Ji called to Ji Yu, and when she looked up, the person before her seemed familiar.


    "Yu, it¡¯s normal if you don¡¯t remember me. When west met, you were still a child."


    Ji Yu raised her eyebrows. She vaguely remembered her but couldn¡¯t immediately recall who she was. "And you are?"


    "This is your cousin! Of course, you wouldn¡¯t remember. You two were so close when you were young."


    Oh, really?


    Ji Yu greeted her politely but didn¡¯t think their rtionship was close at all.

 Chapter 106: Cousin

    <h4>Chapter 106: Chapter 106: Cousin</h4>


    She usually hassting impressions of those she¡¯s close to, but somehow, this person left nothing with her.


    However, since Madam Ji had spoken, Ji Yu had to show respect. "Cousin, how do you have time to visit us at home?"


    "I¡¯ve been busy with some work matters recently and thought I¡¯de to see Uncle and Aunt after wrapping up."


    She came across as wless, but Ji Yu didn¡¯t have any good feelings toward her.


    "Lin, that¡¯s very thoughtful of you. Since you¡¯ll be staying here for a while, let Ji Yu show you around."


    It seemed this matter was meant to fall on Ji Yu¡¯s shoulders.


    Because Madam Ji was present, Ji Yu could only nod. "Mom, don¡¯t worry. I¡¯ll make the arrangements."


    Seeing how harmonious the two of them appeared, Madam Ji stood to prepare dinner in the kitchen.


    Ji Lin, however, grew more curious when she observed Ji Yu¡¯sposed expression. Did she truly not remember, or was she pretending?


    "Yu, you aren¡¯t as fun as you used to be after growing up," she said wistfully, as if recalling a fond and amusing memory.


    "Oh? Cousin, do you still enjoy the games we yed as kids? I can oblige," Ji Yu said, her gaze toward Ji Linced with sarcasm. "But I¡¯m afraid those tricks might not work anymore."


    She had no idea why Ji Lin hade this time, but this cousin was never one to make an effort unless there was something in it for her. Who knew what her real motive was?


    "Yu, what kind of attitude is that? I just wanted to catch up," Ji Lin said.


    This time, Ji Yu didn¡¯t respond and instead focused on the roster in her hands.


    Tian¡¯s skills were getting more refined by the day. It was probably time to train another person and set up a rotation schedule.


    When Ji Yuanzhou returned and saw an extra person on the couch, he was visibly surprised. "Who¡¯s this?"


    "Yuanyou, do you not recognize me? I¡¯m heartbroken!" Ji Lin eximed exaggeratedly, as if Ji Yuanzhou¡¯s question had deeply hurt her.


    Ji Yuanzhou frowned, gradually recalling his memories of Ji Lin. But it was clear he wasn¡¯t particrly d to see her. "What are you doing here?"


    He instinctively sat between Ji Yu and Ji Lin, the protective gesture unmistakable.


    Ji Lin studied him with a meaningful smile. "I¡¯m naturally here to visit you all. After all these years, Yuanyou, you haven¡¯t changed a bit."


    She had long known that the bond between these two was more than ordinary.


    "But I do have something to discuss with Yu."


    Given how she phrased it, it was unlikely to be a trivial matter. Ji Yu showed a trace of disdain. "If there¡¯s something, just say it outright. Why y games? I¡¯m not fond of such conversations."


    Ji Lin had always liked using such tactics. Clearly, some people never changed with time.


    Ji Lin lifted the corners of her lips in a confident smile. "In fact, this project of mine is linked to the Gu family. I heard that you and President Gu are on fairly good terms, so I wanted to ask for your help making an introduction."


    So, it turned out she had her eyes on Gu Qixiao.


    Thinking about the rumors surrounding the two of them recently, Ji Yu finally understood why Ji Lin hade looking for her.


    "I don¡¯t discuss business matters with him. If you want to coborate with him, you can reach out to him directly."


    She had no desire to get involved in such matters.


    Besides, who knew whether Ji Lin¡¯s n was genuinely sound or just another scam?


    Ji Yu had always been perceptive.


    "Yu, this project is somewhatplicated. I need to exin it to President Gu in person. Why don¡¯t you help introduce me? Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯m sure President Gu will be interested."


    Her confident smile suggested she was certain of herself.


    "If you¡¯re so sure he¡¯ll be interested, you can schedule a meeting with him at his office anytime. Whye to me?"


    Ji Yu tly refused.


    Besides, Gu Qixiao had just told her he was busy today. Stirring up these matters now would only annoy him, wouldn¡¯t it?


    "Yu, we¡¯re family. Don¡¯t be so distant. I¡¯ve heard that President Gu is pursuing you. Helping me with this project shouldn¡¯t be too hard for you, right?"


    As she spoke, Ji Lin subtly pushed Ji Yu¡¯s ss aside and tried to maneuver past Ji Yuanzhou to get closer to Ji Yu.


    But Ji Yuanzhou sat like a mountain, unwavering in his seat beside Ji Yu. No matter how much Ji Lin tried, she couldn¡¯t get around him to Ji Yu.


    "If Yu says no, then stop with these schemes. You really think everyone else is clueless?"


    If she truly had the ability, fine. But if things went poorly, wouldn¡¯t Ji Yu be the one embarrassed?


    Ji Yuanzhou was steadfastly on Ji Yu¡¯s side. "And don¡¯t go making trouble. Even if you run to my parents about this, they won¡¯t agree to it."


    Ji Yu quietly sipped her tea beside them. She didn¡¯t even need to say a word to fend Ji Lin off.


    "Brother, no need to say so much. I¡¯ve already made it clear there¡¯s nothing to discuss when I¡¯ve refused," Ji Yu stated firmly.


    Her stance had been evident the entire time.


    Ji Lin had no words to counter for the moment. She could only re at Ji Yu hatefully, her resentment deepening.


    During dinner, she kept trying to bring it up again.


    "You¡¯re looking to coborate with Gu? The quality of the project matters most. Besides, there¡¯s no guarantee anything will work out between Yu and Gu, so it¡¯s best if you handle this yourself."


    The Ji parents felt the same and straightforwardly refused her.


    Ji Yu chuckled lightly. "Cousin, in business, it¡¯s better to focus on honest efforts instead of these shortcuts."


    As she spoke, she looked at the people around her and suddenly felt lucky to have so much support.


    Ji Lin¡¯s smile faltered slightly, but with others present, she had to keep herposure.


    It was safe to say Ji Lin was the only one who didn¡¯t enjoy the meal.


    Yet, to her credit, she somehow managed to stay the night at the Ji house.


    The next morning, Ji Yu was surprised to see her again.


    "Yu, are you heading to the hospital? I¡¯ve heard your hospital has a great reputation. Mind if I tag along to have a look?"


    Ji Lin seemed curious about Ji Yu¡¯s hospital and wanted to see what made it so special.


    Ji Yu smiled, but her words were a polite refusal. "I¡¯m sorry, but I¡¯m quite busy today. I probably can¡¯t take you along."


    After all, she had work to do. Ji Lin couldn¡¯t possibly expect her to ditch work for her, right?


    "That¡¯s fine. I can just watch from the sidelines. I was thinking about arranging a donation project for your hospital," Ji Lin said.


    For a hospital like Ji Yu¡¯s, charitable donations weremon. But whether Ji Lin would truly donate was another matter.


    Since Ji Lin had brought it up, Ji Yu had no choice but to agree.


    "Great, then I¡¯ll leave you to handle the donation, Cousin," Ji Yu said calmly.


    She didn¡¯t believe Ji Lin would visit and leave without spending a single cent.

 Chapter 107 Seduction

    <h4>Chapter 107: Chapter 107 Seduction</h4>


    Ji Lin followed Ji Yu to Chongxin, and many people were curious about Ji Lin¡¯s identity.


    Ji Yu, however, was quite calm, "This is my distant cousin. She¡¯s here today to check out the project, and she might even donate to uster."


    This hint made those around Ji Yu understandpletely.


    They treated Ji Lin with utmost politeness, not like a rtive at all, but more like an inspecting boss.


    Meanwhile, Ji Yu continued with her own affairs.


    "Sister Yu, this person seems a bit off, she keeps looking at the people around."


    "Let her be." Just looking for someone, it¡¯smendable she even thought ofing out.


    However, Gu Qixiao was quite punctual this time, knowing he didn¡¯t meet Ji Yust night, he arrived exceptionally early this time.


    "President Gu, you¡¯re here too early today, Sister Yu is still in the office."


    Tian also knew about Gu Qixiao¡¯s affairs and showed him due respect.


    Gu Qixiao nodded and effortlessly headed to Ji Yu¡¯s office.


    At this moment, Ji Yu was discussing the donation with Ji Lin.


    "I believe today cousin should be quite inspired, how about setting up a foundation directly? Rest assured, there have been many kind-hearted people with such projects before, we will definitely put your name up."


    She was already used to such matters and casually nced at the prominent name of Gu Qixiao hanging there.


    "Look, even the person you most want to coborate with is on it, are you really nning to leave just like that?"


    She blinked innocently, but the words made Ji Lin feel a sting.


    Heaven knows how hard she had to work to earn so much money during this time.


    "Alright."


    She looked at Gu Qixiao¡¯s name with determination.


    She couldn¡¯t believe she wouldn¡¯t see Gu Qixiao even like this.


    As it turned out, her wish was quite effective, Gu Qixiao soon entered Ji Yu¡¯s office.


    "Who is this?" He knew Ji Yu rarely had idle chats with others in the office.


    "This is my distant cousin, and also the donor this time."


    Ji Yu looked bored at the person in front of her, knowing that Ji Lin¡¯s target was probably Gu Qixiao, but still wanted to see the drama unfold.


    Sure enough, Ji Lin¡¯s eyes lit up when she saw Gu Qixiao.


    "Hello, President Gu."


    Gu Qixiao treated her just as Ji Yu¡¯s cousin, quite polite.


    "Let¡¯s have dinner together tonight." He said to Ji Yu.


    He actually had a lot he wanted to discuss with Ji Yu.


    The matter with Song Xuan had made him a bit restless.


    "Sure."


    Before Ji Yu could answer, Ji Lin already eagerly responded.


    Looking quite expectant about this meal.


    But unfortunately, Gu Qixiao wasn¡¯t one to spare feelings, "Since Miss Ji wants to eat, I can have my assistant arrange itter, but tonight I only want to have dinner with Yu."


    His expression didn¡¯t change at all, but his words were merciless.


    For a moment, the expression on Ji Lin¡¯s face froze, not understanding how someone could be so heartless and say such things.


    "President Gu, you might be mistaken, I actually want to have a meal with you, to talk about cooperation. I can apany you with Yu."


    In her eyes, Ji Yu was nearly invisible, her aim was to quickly win over the man in front of her.


    Gu Qixiao frowned, but for Ji Yu¡¯s sake, he nodded in agreement.


    However, once in the car, he started ignoring Ji Lin¡¯s presence.


    Ji Lin watched as he ignored her like this and could only find different ways to assert her presence in front of Gu Qixiao.


    "Yu and I were close when we were little, seeing her again this time made me feel nostalgic."


    Her eyes looked reminiscent as she gazed at Ji Yu, making Ji Yu shiver with goosebumps, wondering how she could say such things.


    "Really? I just remember cousin seemed to love breaking flower pots."


    However, Ji Yu didn¡¯t want to dwell on these things anymore.


    Besides, she was happy to sit by and watch the show, curious to see how the rtionship between Gu Qixiao and Ji Lin might develop.


    Ji Lin¡¯s smiling face almost couldn¡¯t hold up after those words, "Is that so? Maybe I was young and reckless then, Yu, I¡¯m really d you remember childhood things."


    Obviously, these topics couldn¡¯t attract Gu Qixiao, he¡¯d long noticed Ji Yu¡¯s indifferent attitude towards this cousin.


    "What would you like to eat tonight, Yu?"


    Such neglect left Ji Lin at a loss, even suspecting if there was something wrong with her makeup, leading to the current oue.


    Ji Yu raised her eyebrows, surprised by Gu Qixiao¡¯s behavior, "Up to you, the ces you picked before were fine."


    Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t hesitate and took Ji Yu to eat hotpot.


    Upon reaching the restaurant, Ji Lin¡¯s expression wasplicated, even doubting Gu Qixiao¡¯s identity.


    "We¡¯re just eating this?"


    Ji Yu raised her eyebrow, "What else?"


    Should they eat her?


    Clearly, Ji Lin misjudged their dining choice, leaving her feeling out of ce.


    "President Gu, I actually have a coboration in mind that you¡¯ll definitely be interested in."


    She could only try to steer the topic toward her and Gu Qixiao.


    "Oh really?"


    Gu Qixiao had no intention to delve further, focused solely on helping Ji Yu find things she liked.


    Watching this made Ji Lin furrow her eyebrows tightly, "Yu, can¡¯t you use your chopsticks? President Gu still needs to discuss cooperation with me."


    Ultimately, the situation involved Ji Yu.


    Yet she paid no heed to Ji Lin¡¯s anger, "I¡¯ve been using my chopsticks, didn¡¯t cousin see?"


    Her manner was like a soft cotton ball, no matter how hard Ji Lin tried, she couldn¡¯t insert herself at all, making her wonder if Ji Yu was doing this deliberately.


    "Since cousin has something to say, you might as well say it directly. Even though we¡¯re eating, we¡¯ll still hear what¡¯s necessary."


    Such matters didn¡¯t really matter.


    Ji Lin really wanted to smack Ji Yu.


    But such matters seemed especially tangled.


    "President Gu, why don¡¯t we exchange contacts, then I can set a time to talk in detail about the cooperation."


    In reality, there was no genuine partnership, just her clumsy attempt at seduction.


    "Cousin, sometimes treating others like fools isn¡¯t wise, you think anyone here is unaware of your intentions? Why devalue yourself further?"


    Ji Yu couldn¡¯t understand why she had such thoughts.


    "If you like someone, show it boldly. As for cooperation, whether true or not, you have to voice it. Otherwise, if it¡¯s too evident, it won¡¯t lure anyone."

 Chapter 108 Straightforward

    <h4>Chapter 108: Chapter 108 Straightforward</h4>


    Ji Yu spoke very directly, and for a moment, Ji Lin¡¯s face turned alternately pale and flushed, looking quite embarrassed.


    However, Ji Yu hadn¡¯t intended to embarrass her in the first ce.


    "Cousin, if you didn¡¯t overstep boundaries, no one would say anything about you. But if you make it so obvious and even disrupt someone¡¯s meal, then you¡¯re in the wrong."


    She hadn¡¯t said a word just now, yet the anger had already been directed at her. Was this simply picking a fight?


    Ji Yu was especially disdainful of such antics.


    "I..."


    She wanted to find an excuse to gloss things over, but Gu Qixiao¡¯s gaze stayed fixed on Ji Yu the whole time,pletely ignoring her disheartened expression.


    For a moment, she felt overwhelmed, and simply grabbed her bag and walked away.


    Ji Yu saw the situation but didn¡¯t say anything.


    Instead, she curiously asked Gu Qixiao, "What¡¯s going on with you tonight? Are you upset?"


    If he was upset, why bothering out to eat together?


    Gu Qixiao worried Ji Yu might misunderstand, "It¡¯s not that I¡¯m upset¡ªit¡¯s just that I¡¯ve been troubled by something."


    Ji Yu raised her eyebrows and wiped her fiery red lips, stung by the spice, "Really? Does this have to do with Song Xuan?"


    She had already guessed yesterday that it was rted to Song Xuan but hadn¡¯t mentioned it.


    "You already know?" he looked at Ji Yu in surprise, curious as to how she had found out.


    "The only person who could disturb you like this is definitely Song Xuan. But I am curious, what exactly did Song Xuan do to make you so irritable?"


    This waspletely different from Gu Qixiao¡¯s usual demeanor.


    "She slit her wrist yesterday in the vi as an attempt at suicide. When I took her to the hospital, the doctor said her emotions were unstable and told me not to provoke her."


    But he exined everything clearly.


    Some things should not be left hanging with any hope, otherwise it would only make things more awkward for everyer.


    "I told her clearly that I couldn¡¯t spend the rest of my life repaying a debt of gratitude, but she¡¯s surprisingly stubborn. For a moment, I didn¡¯t know how to deal with it."


    Honestly, anyone in this situation would feel stressed out.


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t know what to say either, because even the worst person¡¯s life still mattered.


    "Her life is obviously important to you. I hope you won¡¯t dwell too much on it¡ªperhaps trying to ept it would be better."


    After all, their feelings hadn¡¯t resulted in anything yet.


    Stopping losses in time might not be such a bad idea?


    Gu Qixiao¡¯s face grew darker, "So your advice to me is to ept her affection?"


    This sort of suggestion would anger anyone.


    Ji Yu raised her brows and remained calm, "I¡¯m just giving you a suggestion; you don¡¯t have to take it."


    But some things, once spoken, could be hurtful.


    "I know what I¡¯ve said may disappoint you, but it¡¯s the optimal solution."


    If he agreed to Song Xuan¡¯s wishes, there wouldn¡¯t be furtherplications.


    Their rtionship wouldn¡¯t need to be dragged out further, which would be a good thing for everybody involved.


    Gu Qixiao¡¯s expression turned cold,pletely unlike his previous demeanor, "Ji Yu, do you even have a heart?"


    The kindness he showed Ji Yu was never just empty words, yet she kept pushing him away again and again.


    For a moment, Gu Qixiao felt tired, even unsure how to assuage the situation in front of him.


    Ji Yu¡¯s eyebrows carried a faint trace of detachment, "Why bother? This solution is the best for you. Don¡¯t you think so? Then tell me, how do you n to deal with Song Xuan¡¯s situation?"


    There¡¯s clearly no other way.


    Surely he wouldn¡¯t just let Song Xuan die?


    "You can¡¯t just watch her die, so this is the best solution."


    Ji Yu calmly finished her statement, hoping Gu Qixiao could understand that some matters were inherentlyplicated.


    Not everyone¡¯s thoughts were this simple.


    Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t know what to say for a moment, probably because Ji Yu was so rational, rational to the point where he felt like giving up.


    "You might be tired, better go back and get some rest."


    He didn¡¯t bring up this topic again¡ªor rather, he subconsciously avoided addressing it.


    Ji Yu was helpless, only thinking that this situation wouldn¡¯t lead anywhere productive. Having such thoughts wasn¡¯t easy to begin with.


    "Your rtionship with Song Xuan is destined to be one where you can¡¯t truly leave her alone."


    Perhaps that¡¯s precisely why Song Xuan felt emboldened to act so uninhibitedly.


    As Gu Qixiao was on his way back, her remark kept reying in his mind. He couldn¡¯t find words to describe his current feelings, but he was undoubtedly far from happy.


    When he arrived at the hospital room, Song Xuan was still awake.


    Seeing him enter, Song Xuan¡¯s expression turned visibly emotional, "Xiao, I knew you wouldn¡¯t ignore me."


    Her emotional dependence on Gu Qixiao was severe, yet she often didn¡¯t know what to do about it.


    Gu Qixiao sighed, "Song Xuan, you need to calm down; the doctor said your emotions shouldn¡¯t be agitated recently."


    He felt helpless about the situation in front of him.


    But for Song Xuan, anything involving Gu Qixiao couldn¡¯t be met withposure.


    "Xiao, you know how deeply I care for you. I¡¯ve never wanted to feel calm when facing you, so would you give me this chance?"


    She had said this more times than she could count.


    And she hoped Gu Qixiao could truly see her love for him.


    Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t appreciate this kind of pestering, "This sort of affection feels like a burden to me."


    His expression was indifferent, brimming with helplessness, "I can protect you, but I absolutely won¡¯t be with you."


    He felt truly exasperated over this matter.


    His protection was out of a sense of gratitude, but some things weren¡¯t so easily solved.


    "But Xiao, if you wish to protect me, why can¡¯t you marry me? If we¡¯re together, you can still protect me. My face has healed¡ªdon¡¯t you like me anymore?"


    She had originally thought it was all about her appearance, but now that her face had mostly healed, why wouldn¡¯t Gu Qixiao spare her a nce?


    "My feelings for you have always been those of an elder brother toward a younger sister¡ªthey can never evolve into anything else. So you need to think carefully: do you want to stay as my sister, or should I help find you a suitable husband soon?"


    This was the ideal solution Gu Qixiao could think of.


    Only by finding her a suitable match could their situation resolve entirely.


    Song Xuan¡¯s expression was one of shock; clearly, she hadn¡¯t expected Gu Qixiao to have such thoughts. "Xiao, are you serious about everything you¡¯re saying?"


    Was her love in Gu Qixiao¡¯s eyes nothing but a burden?


    For a moment, she didn¡¯t know how to articte the emotions in her heart.

 Chapter 109: Not a Burden

    <h4>Chapter 109: Chapter 109: Not a Burden</h4>


    "Xiao, I love you. And now you¡¯re telling me to marry someone else?"


    "Spend some more time together and you¡¯ll realize that your feelings for me might not be as deep as you think." Gu Qixiao¡¯s expression was utterly calm, as if this was simply the way things were.


    This kind of interaction made her feel hard-pressed to ept it. "You..."


    She couldn¡¯t finish her sentence,pletely infuriated by Gu Qixiao¡¯s indifferent attitude.


    Gu Qixiao said helplessly, "Take a good rest and think about it. I won¡¯t be changing my mind."


    He remained decisive when confronted with matters like this.


    Moreover, he knew Ji Yu cared a lot about this situation.


    As she watched Gu Qixiao leave, tears welled up in her eyes once again, and she couldn¡¯t stop them from falling.


    "Xiao, how can you treat me this way...? It must be because of that bitch Ji Yu!"


    She pinned all the me on Ji Yu, her hatred for Ji Yu growing stronger.


    Unaware of all this, Ji Yu only knew that Ji Lin truly had no shame. Even after everything that had unfolded today, Ji Lin had no intention of leaving.


    "Yu, you and your cousin seem to have a decent rtionship. Tomorrow, spend some time with her and show her around."


    Ji Yu raised her eyebrows and nced at Ji Lin, who was clinging to Madam Ji¡¯s arm. It was clear that she was still scheming something.


    But this time, Ji Yu didn¡¯t refuse. "Sure! I¡¯d love to see what my cousin has nned."


    Since Ji Lin enjoyed these games, why not take her around for a proper tour?


    Though at times, it¡¯s also essential to understand that beating your head against a brick wall should make you reconsider.


    Ji Lin smirked at Ji Yu¡¯s reluctant tone. "Yu, if you¡¯re unwilling, I can ask Yuanyou toe with me instead."


    She was up to her usual antics, and Ji Yu figured she probably had something dramatic in store. Ji Yu, however, was keen on getting out and clearing her mind, so she simply agreed.


    "I didn¡¯t say I wasn¡¯t willing. When the timees, I¡¯ll make sure my dear cousin has a wonderful time."


    Ji Yu emphasized the words "wonderful time," her toneced with sarcasm¡ªit was clear she had already seen through her cousin¡¯s intentions.


    But Ji Lin wasn¡¯t one to back down easily. The next day, she dressed herself up mboyantly before heading out with Ji Yu.


    Initially, Ji Lin assumed that Gu Qixiao would surelye looking for Ji Yu, but after half a day of wandering outside, Ji Yu hadn¡¯t seen even a shadow of him.


    "Looks like your rtionship with President Gu isn¡¯t as great as you make it out to be."


    She made a pointed remark toward Ji Yu, her gaze suggesting that Ji Yu had just been abandoned.


    "Is that so? Perhaps you¡¯re right. Either way, my rtionship with him is none of anyone else¡¯s concern. Besides, I have a pretty good idea of what you¡¯re thinking, dear cousin."


    Whatever her intentions were, Ji Yu saw through thempletely.


    The two entered a luxury boutique.


    Ji Lin¡¯s eyes sparkled at the merchandise on disy. "Yu, if you find anything you like, tell me. I¡¯ll cover the bill."


    "Really? Well, thank you, dear cousin. Unfortunately, none of this stuff interests me."


    Ji Yuzily yawned,pletely indifferent to whether Ji Lin liked the items or not. In any case, she was determined to finish her "tour" quickly.


    "Yuyu! You¡¯re out shopping, and you didn¡¯t invite me!"


    Feng Qinqin looked surprised to see Ji Yu¡ªshe knew it was rare for Ji Yu to go shopping.


    "Shopping? Hardly. Someone wanted toe here, so I had no choice but to apany them."


    Ji Yu gestured toward Ji Lin with her chin.


    When it came to her cousin¡¯s preferences, Ji Yu didn¡¯t quite understand them.


    "This must be the cousin you mentioned before, right? Judging by how she¡¯s acting, I bet she¡¯s picking out gifts for some man. Are you sure she¡¯s buying this stuff for herself?"


    "Maybe she¡¯s picking something out for Gu Qixiao." Ji Yu couldn¡¯t begin to guess what was going on in her cousin¡¯s mind.


    Despite Gu Qixiao¡¯s cold demeanor yesterday, Ji Lin still seemed eager to draw closer to him.


    Evidently, Ji Lin had formidable perseverance. Too bad Gu Qixiao wasn¡¯t one for such ambiguous rtionships.


    "Oh? So it seems President Gu has a bit of a romantic streak after all. But what¡¯s going on between you two?"


    Thinking back tost night, Ji Yu wasn¡¯t sure how she felt about Gu Qixiao. "Whatever happens, it¡¯ll happen naturally."


    At the very least, Ji Yu wasn¡¯t nning on being with him anytime soon.


    Whether it was due to ack of affection or some other reason, the reality was that they hadn¡¯t reached mutual feelings yet.


    "Just recently, you were firm about saying it was impossible. Now, you¡¯re talking about ¡¯whatever happens.¡¯ Seems like there¡¯s still hope."


    Feng Qinqin winked at Ji Yu yfully.


    "By the way, I heard his woman Song Xuan is hospitalized. That must have affected him, right?"


    "Oh? Anyway, whatever it is, it has nothing to do with me." Ji Yu had long formed an opinion about Song Xuan.


    No matter what role Song Xuan yed, she would always stick around Gu Qixiao. It was better to keep such people at a distance.


    "You wouldn¡¯t believe how crazy Song Xuan is! She even resorted to slitting her wrists. If Gu Qixiao hadn¡¯t gone back, wouldn¡¯t she really have died?"


    Ji Yu frowned. "Maybe she knew Gu Qixiao would return. After all, who would joke about something as serious as their own life?"


    Incidents like this were hard for anyone to deal with.


    She disliked such situations.


    The current state of things had drained her of any interest. "Anyway, talking too much about it isn¡¯t good, either. Whatever choices they make are theirs alone. Why bother discussing it?"


    At the very least, Gu Qixiao seemed incapable of letting go of Song Xuan.


    "Alright, as long as you don¡¯t have a one-track mind about romance, I¡¯m relieved. When do you have time? Let¡¯s hang out together!"


    Feng Qinqin was keen to go out with Ji Yu sometime.


    "Let¡¯s wait until after I handle her." Ji Yu was well aware of Ji Lin¡¯s sneaky motives from the start. She figured Ji Lin might end up tarnishing the Ji family¡¯s reputation somehow.


    Since Ji Lin was here, Ji Yu intended to make sure her ns wouldn¡¯t seed.


    "Sure, got it. But I have to admit, your cousin puts up quite the convincing act."


    Feng Qinqin shared Ji Yu¡¯s disdain for the people Ji Yu didn¡¯t like.


    Seeing Ji Lin still browsing for gifts, she couldn¡¯t help but scoff.


    "Let her be. Who knows? Maybe she¡¯ll seed in the end."


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t know when Gu Qixiao¡¯s feelings might shift. Perhaps he¡¯d fall for someone else someday.


    Things like this were anyone¡¯s guess.


    "Cut it out. Between you and Gu Qixiao, you¡¯re the ones who truly match each other. Apart from his asional foolishness, I see no other issues between you two."


    Feng Qinqin¡¯s impression of Gu Qixiao had improved since theirst meal together.


    "We¡¯ll see. Who knows what the future holds?"


    Ji Yu still needed time to process everything.

 Chapter 110: Whose Favor

    <h4>Chapter 110: Chapter 110: Whose Favor</h4>


    To be honest, Ji Yu wasn¡¯t in the mood for such things either.


    Seeing how Gu Qixiao¡¯s pursuit had already affected her life, she no longer wanted to continue like this.


    Over there, Ji Lin saw someone next to Ji Yu and curiously walked over.


    "Who is this?"


    "A good friend of mine." Ji Yu had no intention of introducing them.


    But Ji Lin was interested in everyone around her.


    "I¡¯m Ji Lin, Ji Yu¡¯s cousin. Nice to meet you."


    Unfortunately, Feng Qinqin had always stood by Ji Yu¡¯s side and naturally wouldn¡¯tmunicate with her.


    "Oh, hello."


    For a moment, the scene was a bit awkward, making Ji Lin somewhat annoyed.


    "Yu, aren¡¯t you nning to have dinner with President Gu today?" She was still waiting to have a good talk with Gu Qixiao.


    She just couldn¡¯t believe there was a man who would refuse a woman who delivered herself to his door.


    "Does he always have spare time?" Ji Yu looked at her, somewhat surprised, as if asking why she had such a misconception.


    "I¡¯ve been seeing the newstely, which says you and President Gu have dinner together every night. Are those false?"


    "False." Ji Yu replied indifferently.


    On the side, Feng Qinqin sensed something, "Cousin, isn¡¯t your target President Gu? Then I think you better give up quickly because he probably doesn¡¯t like someone like you."


    As she spoke, she disdainfully nced at Ji Lin.


    "Nor someone who would throw flowerpots."


    This was something familiar to those who knew Ji Yu well.


    Ji Lin snorted coldly, "Yu, it seems your friend wasn¡¯t raised well. Just listen to what she¡¯s saying. You should talk to her properly."


    ¡¯I think it¡¯s fine.¡¯ She now felt a joy in ignoring others¡¯ fates.


    Anyway, Ji Lin harbored no good intentions, so let her continue to be arrogant.


    Ji Lin was left speechless.


    But realizing Ji Yu might not be reliable, she directly said goodbye to Ji Yu, intending to personally try and make a presence with Gu Qixiao.


    Assistant Li, knowing she was Ji Yu¡¯s cousin, dared not neglect her.


    But he forgot that Song Xuan insisted on being discharged, already seated there.


    She couldn¡¯t match Ji Yu¡¯s position in Gu Qixiao¡¯s heart, undoubtedly triggering her to subconsciouslypare with others.


    Thus, Ji Lin had some bad luck.


    "What do you mean by this?" Ji Lin looked at the little secretary daring to show an attitude, and her face instantly turned gloomy.


    She was the prospective future mistress here; how could she tolerate these people¡¯s attitudes?


    "Who do you think you are, dressing so mboyantly to see Xiao? Do you think you can seduce him? With your looks, you can¡¯t seriously think you have a chance."


    Her eyes were filled with disdain towards Ji Lin.


    On one side, Assistant Li felt his head was about to explode, "Miss Song, this is Miss Ji, Doctor Ji¡¯s cousin."


    "Is that so? It¡¯s even more interesting. Don¡¯t you know my Xiao doesn¡¯t like your kind of people?"


    She wished she could sweep all the women around Gu Qixiao away, but something seemed off with the situation.


    Ji Lin snorted, "Who do you think you are? Just because you say President Gu doesn¡¯t like someone, it doesn¡¯t mean he doesn¡¯t."


    She wasn¡¯t afraid of Song Xuan. Ignorance is bliss, so she boldly confronted her and even directly sshed coffee on Song Xuan¡¯s face.


    "Go wash your face and see on what grounds you get to call President Gu so intimately."


    She wasn¡¯t afraid of Song Xuan at all, sitting right on the sofa on the side, as if she was watching a show.


    When Gu Qixiao returned, he saw Song Xuan screaming.


    He rubbed his ear irritably, "What¡¯s going on here?"


    Assistant Li had already put on a pained expression, "President Gu, things might be a bit out of control here. This is Doctor Ji¡¯s cousin, and there was some conflict with Miss Song just now."


    Regarding what conflict, he believed that even without saying, Gu Qixiao would understand.


    Indeed, Gu Qixiao¡¯s face turned a bit sour, "Who gave you the right toe find me? Also, Song Xuan, what are you trying to stir up?"


    He was already worn out with all the women¡¯s issues.


    Ji Lin awkwardlyughed, "President Gu, I truly have some business matters to discuss with you. You really should talk with me, for my cousin¡¯s sake at least."


    Saying this, she pulled out some documents from her purse, unafraid that Gu Qixiao would refuse.


    Gu Qixiao frowned, disliking such threats, "No need, I¡¯ll exin to Yu myself, but I can¡¯t agree to your matter."


    The earlier incident had taught Gu Qixiao a lesson, so naturally, he wouldn¡¯t be hasty this time.


    For a moment, the situation was awkward; Song Xuan proudly looked at Ji Lin, "Some people must really think my Xiao is some charity case; look at yourself still trying to use Ji Yu¡¯s name to beg, and don¡¯t bother looking in the mirror."


    "Enough." Gu Qixiao coldly looked at Song Xuan, "How much longer do you intend to stir things up?"


    These matters originally had nothing to do with Ji Yu, he could tell right from wrong. If Ji Yu truly harbored such intentions, this coboration wouldn¡¯t have been dyed till now.


    "I won¡¯t see you again. If you continue here, I¡¯ll have you sent to the police immediately. Don¡¯t parade around under Yu¡¯s name; you don¡¯t deserve it."


    He was indeed gentle in front of Ji Yu, but where Ji Yu wasn¡¯t present, he always had this cold demeanor.


    Ji Lin was momentarily unable to react, it was Assistant Li who escorted her out first.


    "Miss Ji, please don¡¯t use such tactics anymore. While our president does care about Doctor Ji, he doesn¡¯t care about the rest of her family."


    This behavior had nothing good to say for itself.


    Where these people got such courage was a mystery.


    Ji Lin repeatedly mulled over these words, finding the situation absurd, "How could this be possible?"


    She had always assumed that the rtionship between Gu Qixiao and Ji Yu was causal, but this seemed far from what she had thought.


    "You¡¯d better go back." Assistant Li didn¡¯t n to speak further nonsense and quickly took leave.


    Meanwhile, Song Xuan coquettishly stood by Gu Qixiao¡¯s side, "Xiao, I know you don¡¯t like Ji Yu that much either. Shall we rebuild our rtionship? I promise not to be willful anymore."


    She knew Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t like this side of her, so she was willing to change.


    But Gu Qixiao only felt it was noisy, "Go change your clothes. Don¡¯t bring this up again. I hope you can forget your identity when you work at thepany."

 Chapter 111 Inquiry

    <h4>Chapter 111: Chapter 111 Inquiry</h4>


    Ji Yu waspletely unaware of this matter.


    Rarely having time to rest, she decided to go shopping with Feng Qinqin instead.


    "Yuyu, why do you seem so down today?"


    Having been Ji Yu¡¯s closest friend for so many years, how could Feng Qinqin not notice Ji Yu¡¯s mood?


    Ji Yu shook her head, indicating that there was nothing worth dwelling on. "It¡¯s nothing."


    She just needed some time to clear her mind.


    "Did you have a fight with Gu Qixiao? The way you look really makes me think so."


    Feng Qinqin nced at Ji Yu inquisitively, hoping for a confirmation.


    Ji Yu froze for a moment, thinking about what happenedst night. "We didn¡¯t fight, just a bit of unpleasantness."


    "No way. You rejected him, yet you say there¡¯s been no unpleasantness between you two? What could possibly feel worse than that?"


    She found the whole situation extraordinarily curious.


    But Ji Yu didn¡¯t quite know how to exin.


    "Yuyu, let¡¯s find a nice ce to eat. We can talk through this, and I¡¯ll help you figure it out. Maybe then you won¡¯t have to stress over it anymore."


    "I¡¯m not stressing," Ji Yu insisted stubbornly, though herpanion effortlessly saw through her fa?ade.


    "The way you¡¯re acting now clearly shows you have something on your mind." Feng Qinqin was more convinced than ever.


    Ji Yu, left with no choice, allowed herself to be dragged to a restaurant.


    Feng Qinqin quickly ordered several dishes that Ji Yu liked.


    Then, she waited intently for Ji Yu¡¯s "story time."


    "Come on, spill it. Maybe talking about it will make you feel better."


    Realizing that it would only be with Feng Qinqin that she could talk openly, Ji Yu admitted, "Honestly, I found out about Song Xuan¡¯s attempted suicidest night. It was Gu Qixiao who told me."


    "So, he wants to take care of Song Xuan, and because of that, he wants to break things off with you? No, that¡¯s not right. Knowing your personality, if he said something like that, he wouldn¡¯t stand a chance, would he?"


    "No." Ji Yu rubbed her temples, feeling helpless about how well Feng Qinqin understood her.


    "I told him to be with Song Xuan and stop entangling with me, thinking it was the best solution. But he didn¡¯t seem interested in my suggestion. He hasn¡¯t even messaged me today."


    She didn¡¯t know how to make it sound less strange.


    Feng Qinqin¡¯s jaw dropped. She seemed genuinely shocked that her friend could say such a thing.


    "That¡¯s a bit harsh, Yuyu. He really likes you, and you said something that hurt him like that? Besides, Gu Qixiao may be a bit dense, but he¡¯s been pretty good to you, hasn¡¯t he?"


    Even if the rtionship had its problems, there was always the chance for happinesster on.


    Ji Yu couldn¡¯t respond. Perhaps there really was some inner conflict here. "I was just pointing out the optimal solution, that¡¯s all."


    "But this ¡¯optimal solution¡¯ benefits neither of you! If I were Gu Qixiao, I¡¯d probably be furious too."


    Feng Qinqin made an exaggerated face at her, almost as though scolding her.


    Ji Yu felt cornered. "But do you think Gu can handle Song Xuan¡¯s situation?"


    If Song Xuan kept resorting to such tactics, would he always feel obligated to intervene? Such a life would only grow more suffocating. That¡¯s why Ji Yu thought cutting cleanly was the better choice.


    "You have a point. Song Xuan¡¯s brother once saved his life, so there¡¯s no way he could just ignore her."


    In the end, it was an unsolvable problem. Perhaps letting things end was better.


    At least Ji Yu disliked being stuck in such dilemmas.


    "Alright, I won¡¯t try to persuade you anymore. What you¡¯re saying makes a lot of sense, actually."


    Feng Qinqin was gradually convinced by her reasoning. If it had been her in Ji Yu¡¯s shoes, she probably couldn¡¯t stand it either.


    "Do whatever makes you happy."


    All she wished for was Ji Yu¡¯s happiness.


    Ji Yu smiled faintly. "Forget it, I¡¯ll stop obsessing over these things."


    Unnecessary worry wouldn¡¯t change anything; the end result would only ever be disappointment.


    The two of them maintained a casual attitude,pletely unaware that Ji Lin had already returned home toin tearfully about how Ji Yu wasn¡¯t helping her.


    "Uncle, to be honest, our family can¡¯t hold on any longer. We¡¯re relying on this deal to survive. I only came to Yu because I know she¡¯s close with President Gu, hoping she could give us a hand."


    But by this point, things had escted to a level beyond control.


    Madam Ji, surveying the situation, felt simrly helpless. "Lin, we understand that you¡¯re anxious, but even so, you can¡¯t expect Yu to y matchmaker for you. She might not even like Gu that much."


    If she didn¡¯t like him and ended up owing him a favor, wouldn¡¯t that put Ji Yu in a difficult position?


    They understood this much clearly.


    Ji Yuanzhou snorted coldly. "Are you sure you¡¯re seeking cooperation with Gu Qixiao? It looks to me like you¡¯re trying to get closer to him romantically."


    He had long seen through Ji Lin¡¯s intentions. Any man would be able to tell what she was up to, and thankfully, Gu Qixiao had handled things decently so far without any major issues.


    Ji Lin¡¯s face went pale, then flushed¡ªquite a dramatic reaction.


    When Ji Yu and Feng Qinqin returned, they walked into this very scene.


    "What¡¯s going on, Cousin?"


    "She went to the Gu family and got kicked out. Now she¡¯s here ming you for it. Honestly, I have no idea what she¡¯s thinking." Ji Yuanzhou didn¡¯t mince his words.


    From the start, he had known Ji Lin was up to no good. And now there was no way he¡¯d support her.


    Ji Yu raised an eyebrow, surprise flickering on her delicate face. "So Cousin seems quite eager to meet with President Gu. Too bad, though; we¡¯re not as close as you might think."


    It was her own fault, after all.


    Most people would already be mortified at such humiliation.


    But Ji Lin was not like most people.


    Instead, she turned to Ji Yu¡¯s parents, crying once more. "Uncle, Aunt, would you really watch as our family copses like this? I promise I mean no harm."


    She cried daintily, with an air of genuine grief.


    Unfortunately, Ji Yu¡¯s parents were well aware of who deserved their trust and care.


    The whole scene was rather awkward to witness.


    "Lin, stop crying. Why don¡¯t you start by showing us the proposal? Maybe we can review it and suggest otherpanies to approach. That might help you weather this crisis."


    The two elders could only offer such practical advice.


    But Ji Lin froze. The document she had was tailored specifically for Gu Qixiao, so obviously she couldn¡¯t show it to Ji Yu¡¯s parents.


    "I already gave it to President Gu earlier. I¡¯m not sure if he¡¯ll look at it, which is why I was hoping Yu could put in a good word for me."

 Chapter 112: Looking for Trouble

    <h4>Chapter 112: Chapter 112: Looking for Trouble</h4>


    The Ji parents looked even more conflicted, unsure of what to say.


    But Ji Yu had no intention of continuing to watch her perform. "Since you¡¯ve already handed the documents to Gu Qixiao, if he finds them satisfactory, he¡¯ll naturally approach you for coboration. If not, no matter who it is, he won¡¯t agree."


    Her rtionship with Gu Qixiao wasn¡¯t particrly close; why should he be the one to help out?


    Ji Yu was fully aware of this, which was why she directly rejected Ji Lin.


    Ji Lin¡¯s expression grewplicated. "Yu, we¡¯ve been close since we were kids. Can¡¯t you help me out? I know President Gu is pursuing you."


    "Because he¡¯s pursuing me, I should use him? The two of us aren¡¯t even together, and even if we were, I would never ask him for such a thing." Ji Yu had her principles.


    Since the problemy with Ji Lin, there was really nothing more to discuss.


    But judging by her expression, she likely hadn¡¯t realized the severity of the issue.


    "I have no intention of bickering with you about this. If you like Gu Qixiao, you can pursue him any time. Why bring up your family¡¯s business and even deceive my parents?"


    She unflinchingly exposed the true face of the person before her.


    In truth, Ji Yu didn¡¯t have much more to say about this matter.


    But Ji Lin kept creating trouble, and now all Ji Yu could do was give her a lesson she¡¯d remember.


    "I..."


    Ji Lin gritted her teeth at Ji Yu, clearly tired of pretending.


    The Ji parents¡¯ faces darkened. "Lin, we don¡¯t agree with this. If you like Gu, it¡¯s fine to pursue him directly. But borrowing Yu¡¯s name to do it¡ªwhat does that even mean?"


    They could clearly distinguish between close and distant ties. Ji Lin had gone too far, so they wouldn¡¯t allow her to try such stunts again.


    The Ji family, a family of four, not one member sided with Ji Lin. Seeing how things had escted, Ji Lin no longer feltfortable staying any longer.


    With tears welling up, she ran out as if she¡¯d been wronged.


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t feel like paying attention to any of them. "Mom, Qinqin is staying in my room tonight."


    They already knew the two were close, so seeing Feng Qinqin brought them happiness.


    "Alright. Have you two eaten yet? If not, I¡¯ll have the housekeeper prepare some supper for you."


    "No need to trouble her, Aunty. I just want to chat with Yuyu for a while; we¡¯ve already eaten." Feng Qinqin¡¯s sweet smile lingered, though in truth, she mainly wanted to discuss Gu Qixiao with Ji Yu tonight.


    Dragging things out like this wasn¡¯t a solution.


    The two went upstairs together, clearly with private matters to discuss, and the Ji parents didn¡¯t interfere.


    "You too, take a rest and stop loitering around." They gave Ji Yuanzhou a quick reminder before heading upstairs themselves, leaving Ji Yuanzhou looking even lonelier.


    However, that loneliness was something only he could understand.


    Meanwhile, Feng Qinqin had already begun gossiping with Ji Yu.


    "What exactly are your feelings for Gu Qixiao? If you have even a little affection for him, your attitude shouldn¡¯t be like this."


    Ji Yu sighed. "I still have my reasoning. Even if I have feelings, I can¡¯t bypass the trouble that is Song Xuan."


    For anyone, such a trouble would be a fatal obstacle.


    Ji Yu¡¯s decision hade after much deliberation.


    Hearing this, Feng Qinqin appeared conflicted. "Song Xuan is indeed a troublemaker, but that¡¯s no reason to give up on Gu Qixiao."


    "Do you think Gu Qixiao would ignore it if he saw her attempting suicide again the next time they meet?"


    Of course not.


    Who could turn a blind eye to a human life?


    Feng Qinqin sighed. "Fine, I was going to try convincing you, but your responsepletely shut me down."


    Now, she had no idea how to continue the conversation. Some people seemed fine in every aspect¡ªexcept for one fatal w.


    Ji Yu chuckled lightly, brushing the matter aside. "If that¡¯s how you feel, let¡¯s not dwell on these emotional issues anymore. Get some rest."


    Who ever guarantees meeting the right person every time?


    Everyone is an adult with their own share of troubles.


    That night, Ji Yu didn¡¯t sleep particrly well.


    The next day, she felt drained and out of sorts.


    She nearly bumped into Gu Qixiao, saved at thest moment by Feng Qinqin pulling her aside; otherwise, she would have fallen right into Gu Qixiao¡¯s arms.


    "What are you doing here?" Ji Yu sounded fatigued, unsure of what he wanted to say. Given their current situation, they seemed utterly ipatible.


    "I¡¯m pursuing you; naturally, I want to see you."


    He made no attempt to hide his feelings for Ji Yu, nor did he care about her current attitude. The intensity in his gaze almost left Ji Yu scorched.


    "Didn¡¯t you understand what I saidst time?"


    She had said it inly and felt no regret about doing so.


    Gu Qixiao¡¯s expression didn¡¯t change in the slightest, but there was a faint trace of unreadable grievance in his brows. "Why should I suppress myself just to repay a past favor?"


    He had already promised Song Xuan everything and even arranged matchmaking efforts for her, but marriage waspletely out of the question.


    "Besides, I mentioned that the next time I visit the orphanage, I want you toe along. Do you have time today?"


    He nced meaningfully at Feng Qinqin. She clearly understood she was now a third wheel, but some situations were simply out of her control.


    "You two have a good talk; I think Yuyu could use some fresh air. I¡¯ll head out first."


    And with that, she slipped away quicker than anyone.


    Ji Yu couldn¡¯t help but shake her head, resigned.


    But given the circumstances, since she had already agreed, Ji Yu couldn¡¯t back out now. "Alright."


    Even so, going to the orphanage wouldn¡¯t bring her and Gu Qixiao any closer.


    "You seem to have quite an issue with me."


    "Not really. I just don¡¯t want to deal with it anymore." She didn¡¯t want to think about Song Xuan, though she also hoped Song Xuan wouldn¡¯t interfere with her life.


    "If I remember correctly, your cousin came to mypany yesterday. I know your rtionship with her isn¡¯t good."


    He spoke of it as casually as ifmenting on drinking a ss of water.


    But Ji Yu cared about this matter. "My rtionship with her may not be great, but I don¡¯t need you to point that out. Also, she came to see you with no good intentions, so you¡¯d best be cautious."


    Gu Qixiao had encountered many such people before, which was why he¡¯d instinctively suspected Ji Yu¡¯s motives when they first met.


    Looking back now, he realized he¡¯dpletely misjudged things. "I know she has ulterior motives, but there¡¯s no way I¡¯d be interested in someone like her."

 Chapter 113 The Story from Many Years Ago

    <h4>Chapter 113: Chapter 113 The Story from Many Years Ago</h4>


    Ji Yu looked at the expression on the person in front of her and felt somewhat satisfied. "I don¡¯t need you to treat me like this."


    "You will need it." Gu Qixiao was very confident about their future.


    Such a resolute attitude left Ji Yu feeling helpless, as if their rtionship had always been this way.


    "You¡¯re really confident, but unfortunately, there¡¯s no way I¡¯ll always maintain this attitude toward you."


    She had other things to do; she couldn¡¯t always indulge in this kind of romance.


    Gu Qixiao said nothing further, quietly driving Ji Yu all the way to the orphanage.


    The orphanage director, seeing Ji Yu and Gu Qixiao arriving together, was quite surprised. "It seems you and Mr. Gu are getting along pretty well."


    Ji Yu wanted to retort, but upon thinking about it, this was indeed somewhat unusual.


    "We¡¯re just friends." This was the only exnation she could offer.


    But how could the director not know what Ji Yu was thinking? She looked at Gu Qixiao with eyes full of approval.


    "Alright, since you¡¯re here, hurry inside and see the children."


    The children had been much more well-behaved recently, thanks to Ji Yu¡¯s lessons. At the very least, they were now willing to attend culture sses.


    When they saw Ji Yu and Gu Qixiao, they swarmed around them like a flock.


    "Sister Yu, Uncle Gu, you¡¯re finally here to y with us!"


    Every time he heard this title, Gu Qixiao would choke up. But since the children were used to calling him that, he didn¡¯t want to correct them.


    "Of course we came to see you." Ji Yu pinched Xiu¡¯s little cheek. Noticing they were learning to draw, she couldn¡¯t help but take a look at their masterpieces.


    "Sister Yu, can you draw?"


    "I can." She couldn¡¯t help but recall her childhood. She¡¯d always been interested in these things. Now, picking up a paintbrush again felt quite enjoyable.


    The children¡¯s tools were simple, but Ji Yu drew effortlessly nheless.


    "Sister Yu, is that me you¡¯re drawing?" Xiu¡¯s eyes widened in surprise, clearly delighted.


    "Yes, Xiu. Do you think it looks good?"


    Her drawings were very lifelike, and the children found them fascinating. They quickly huddled around, asking to be drawn as well.


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t refuse, patiently cating them and adding each one of them into the drawing.


    In this moment, Ji Yu¡¯s gentleness was entirely unlike her usual self.


    For a moment, Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t know what to say.


    Perhaps this was what people called being moved at heart.


    He simply stood to the side, quietly watching Ji Yu, as if he could keep watching her like this forever.


    But such moments were always fleeting. When the director came to call them to dinner and saw the scene, she couldn¡¯t help but feel a bit amused.


    "You really are putting Sister Yu on the spot, but you¡¯ve found the right person. Your Sister Yu¡¯s talent in drawing is unmatched."


    When she spoke of Ji Yu, it was with pride.


    Out of all the children back then, Ji Yu was the one she held in the highest regard.


    "Director, please stopplimenting me." Seeing the director begin to praise her endlessly, Ji Yu suddenly felt a bit embarrassed.


    After all, there were things from back then that Ji Yu didn¡¯t like to recall too much. Sometimes, simply remembering the happy moments was enough.


    But Gu Qixiao, on the other hand, was very curious about what Ji Yu had been like in the past. "Director, why not tell me more about Doctor Ji¡¯s earlier days? I¡¯m quite curious about what she was like before."


    He positioned himself in front of Ji Yu, not giving her a chance to object.


    The director, already feeling optimistic about them, was naturally happy to talk about the past.


    The three of them began to eat and chat, but once the director started talking, it was hard for her to stop.


    "Actually, Yu was a very quiet child back then. Even when something happened, she rarely made a sound. But when it came to matters crossing her bottom line, she¡¯d charge in like a little firecracker, ready to fight."


    This was something Ji Yu had almost forgotten. Hearing the director bring it up now, she suddenly recalled the somewhat mortifying scene.


    "Director, that was so long ago. Don¡¯t bring it up anymore," she tried to stop her. At the very least, she didn¡¯t want Gu Qixiao hearing about it. Otherwise, who knew how long he¡¯dugh at her for it.


    But with Gu Qixiao there, one person loved sharing stories while the other loved listening.


    "Yu, that¡¯s all in the past. Plus, it¡¯s good for you two to get to know each other better. Back then, when this girl fought, she was like she didn¡¯t care for her own life. Quite a few boys learned not to mess with her."


    Apart from the incident with the doll, Ji Yu rarely suffered any setbacks.


    Gu Qixiao nced at Ji Yu and, thinking about her current temperament, found itpletely usible.


    "It seems Doctor Ji¡¯s past was quite colorful," he said, with a faint trace of amusement in his eyes.


    Ji Yu¡¯s face inexplicably flushed. Numb to the situation unfolding before her, she could only mechanically poke at her rice with her chopsticks.


    She dreaded the possibility of hearing something even more mortifying.


    Fortunately, the director only spoke of Ji Yu¡¯s endearing traits and didn¡¯t go any further. Otherwise, Ji Yu felt she might lose all face entirely today.


    Feeling a bit helpless about it all, Ji Yu said, "Director, Mr. Gu and I aren¡¯t that close, actually."


    She deliberately emphasized the "Mr. Gu," as if to make it clear how distant their rtionship was.


    Gu Qixiao smiled. "That¡¯s alright. We¡¯ll get closer over time, Doctor Ji."


    It seemed he hadpletely forgotten their earlier unpleasant incidents.


    But Ji Yu didn¡¯t know what to say anymore. The current situation was giving her intense second-hand embarrassment.


    She couldn¡¯t even figure out what to say to change the circumstances before her.


    "You seem to care a lot about these things?" He thought Ji Yu would¡¯ve grown ustomed to such topics by now.


    "I just don¡¯t like discussing these things in front of strangers!" Ji Yu perfectly demonstrated what it meant to be stubborn despite the truth.


    However, Gu Qixiao only found the Ji Yu before him to be exceptionally adorable.


    After all, those past events had already been engraved in his heart.


    No matter when, as long as he thought of those moments, he remembered Ji Yu¡¯s lovable side.


    "So some people¡¯s temper is just a self-defense mechanism. But no matter what kind of person you are, I like you all the same."


    He gazed at Ji Yu with a smile, his eyes full of tenderness, making her feel at a loss.


    "What does my temper have to do with you? And you absolutely cannot tell anyone about this. Otherwise, I¡¯ll make sure you regret it."


    She only wanted to escape as quickly as possible. Some things could lead to heart-pounding moments, and Ji Yu understood this well.


    Some people were simply destined to remain impossible.

 Chapter 114: The Belated Gift

    <h4>Chapter 114: Chapter 114: The Bted Gift</h4>


    She just wanted to get out quickly and avoid the situation. "Mother Dean, I¡¯ll go check on the kids. You guys go on and chat."


    Anyone with eyes could see that Ji Yu was deliberately trying to avoid Gu Qixiao now.


    Although Mother Dean wasn¡¯t sure what had happened, seeing that the two of them still had some level of rapport, she could tell there must be some kind of misunderstanding.


    "Yu is a good child in every respect, just a little too stubborn and headstrong at times."


    Speaking of this, Mother Dean couldn¡¯t help feeling a bit helpless.


    As for Gu Qixiao, his mind was preupied with what he should do next.


    "She probably always wore a protective shield from a young age, which made her this stubborn. But she¡¯s also a very kindhearted child."


    Mother Dean hoped Gu Qixiao wouldn¡¯t hold too many prejudices against Ji Yu.


    She also wished that one day, things between him and Ji Yu could have a happy oue.


    Gu Qixiao smiled slightly. "I understand."


    He would certainly take care of Ji Yu, but right now, Ji Yu probably didn¡¯t think she needed his care.


    Ji Yu had originally wanted toe out for some fresh air, but when she noticed the kids all seemed busy with something, she couldn¡¯t help but feel a little puzzled.


    "Xiu, what are you all up to, sneaking around?" She looked at them with curiosity.


    But the situation in front of her seemed a little different from what she had imagined.


    "Sister Yu, you can¡¯t look! We¡¯re preparing a surprise for someone else. If you see it, it won¡¯t be a surprise anymore."


    Hearing this, Ji Yu grew even more curious about what it could be. However, seeing how cautious they were, she didn¡¯t feel it was appropriate to push.


    "Fine. Then can Sister Yu go to the art room and draw for a bit?"


    She really didn¡¯t know what else to do, so she figured she might as well paint.


    Clearly, they were all curious about what Ji Yu was nning to paint.


    But thinking about what they were holding in their hands, they continued diligently with their task.


    This only made Ji Yu more curious about what exactly they were up to.


    Especially as she looked at the situation before her, she had no idea what to make of it.


    But Ji Yu quickly got her answer.


    Looking at what was in front of her, Ji Yu¡¯s expression froze slightly.


    "What... is this?"


    "Sister Yu, today is your birthday! Uncle Gu asked us to prepare this together." As Xiu spoke, she handed Ji Yu a wobbly-looking little doll they had made.


    In that moment, as soon as Ji Yu saw the doll, long-forgotten memories came rushing back to her mind.


    "You..." She didn¡¯t know how Gu Qixiao had learned about the story behind this doll, but seeing it now, Ji Yu felt herposure slipping.


    It was as if the deepest part of her heart had been exposed, leaving her feeling utterly unprepared.


    Seeing her in this flustered state, Gu Qixiao couldn¡¯t help but find her reaction a little endearing. "It¡¯s your birthday today. Of course, I wanted to give you the thing you once desired most. I believe you¡¯ll like it."


    As he handed her the doll, there was a trace of hope in his eyes.


    He had even made a doll himself. Although, just like the kids¡¯, it didn¡¯t look particrly attractive.


    Yet this not-so-pretty doll ovepped perfectly with the one from Ji Yu¡¯s memories. It was as if she had been transported back to her past.


    Someone actually remembered that doll after all this time.


    But Ji Yu didn¡¯t know how to respond to the situation.


    The truth was, such a gift was so stunning to her that she couldn¡¯t even bring herself to say no.


    "What¡¯s wrong? Don¡¯t tell me you don¡¯t like it?"


    "I like it." She couldn¡¯t bring herself to say otherwise, and she even hugged the doll to her chest.


    It was evident that this doll had stirred something special within Ji Yu.


    She looked at the man in front of her, not knowing what to say.


    "If you like it, then ept it openly. Though this one might not look so good, I promise to give you a more decent er."


    He had practiced for a long time but still hadn¡¯t perfected it. He figured he definitely couldn¡¯t keep giving her such poorly made dolls for her future birthdays, but he decided he would make one for her every year nheless.


    His gaze at Ji Yu carried a hint of amusement, leaving her at a loss for words.


    "Yu, don¡¯t me me for telling Mr. Gu about this. I only mentioned that this doll holds significant meaning for you."


    The fact that he actually made it already showed how much effort Gu Qixiao had put into it.


    Otherwise, he wouldn¡¯t have spent so much time and energy on a single doll.


    Additionally, perhaps feeling that the doll wasn¡¯t presentable enough, he had also prepared a bracelet as a gift¡ªa piece of jewelry clearly worth a lot.


    "Since you¡¯ve received the gift, you should be happy. Besides, we¡¯ll celebrate here this afternoon, and tonight you¡¯ll need to go back home for another celebration."


    He knew that the Ji family cared deeply for Ji Yu as well.


    Ji Yu felt a bit helpless but understood what he meant. "Thank you."


    She genuinely liked the gift but didn¡¯t know how to face Gu Qixiao.


    It seemed she really couldn¡¯t shake him off anymore.


    "The look in your eyes seems like you¡¯re thinking about how to push me away," he teased. "But since you epted my gift, no words of rejection are allowed today. Come over and cut the cake."


    He knew full well that Ji Yu sometimes needed time to adjust and process things, but Gu Qixiao wasn¡¯t in any hurry.


    Eventually, he¡¯de to understand Ji Yu¡¯s preferences more and more.


    Ji Yu sat to the side, appearing somewhat dazed throughout. "You really don¡¯t need to go to such great lengths for me. You know why I keep rejecting you."


    She knew very well that the matter involving Song Xuan had always been a wedge between them. And there was another unresolved issue¡ªthey had never addressed the fact that her ex-husband was none other than Gu Qixiao.


    For a moment, she found herself tangled in conflicting emotions, unsure of what to say.


    "Don¡¯t be afraid. Some things just need careful thought. I know what¡¯s on your mind, but I have no intention of leaving."


    He wanted to stay by Ji Yu¡¯s side.


    Ji Yu looked at Gu Qixiao, once again unsure of how to respond.


    To her, feelings were alwaysplicated¡ªsomething she couldn¡¯t easily handle or sort out.


    "Let¡¯s deal with everything elseter. Today is your birthday. I want you to be happy and not dwell on all these random, inexplicable things."


    He knew Ji Yu was probably anxious about it all.


    But he didn¡¯t want her thinking about such matters on her birthday.


    "Do you even realize today is your birthday?"


    In truth, Ji Yu hadn¡¯t wanted to celebrate her birthday in years. asionally, she¡¯d have a small celebration with the Ji family. Truth be told, today¡¯s events had all beenpletely unexpected for her.

 Chapter 115 Happy Birthday

    <h4>Chapter 115: Chapter 115 Happy Birthday</h4>


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t know what to say and could only acknowledge that the situation in front of her truly came as a surprise.


    "You always manage to do things that catch me off guard."


    This time, Ji Yu refrained from saying anything discouraging. She did find Gu Qixiao¡¯s arrangement quite unexpected.


    After all, what was between the two of them couldn¡¯t simply be exined with a few words anymore.


    Faced with everything in front of her, Ji Yu wasn¡¯t even sure what she should say.


    Perhaps the situation simply left her at a loss.


    "You don¡¯t need to feel any pressure. My desire to be good to you is entirely my own decision. You can ept it without feeling obligated to return anything."


    Seeing Ji Yu¡¯s hesitant and conflicted expression, Gu Qixiao assumed it was because she didn¡¯t reciprocate his feelings.


    "Sometimes, it¡¯s okay to be a little selfish and just enjoy someone else¡¯s goodwill. Like now¡ªaren¡¯t you happy?"


    Happy? Yes, Ji Yu was happy. But she didn¡¯t believe this was the kind of approach one should take to achieve happiness. Ji Yu had always been someone with steady emotions, so even in a situation like this, she remained calm.


    "What you¡¯re saying isn¡¯t entirely wrong, but I hope you understand¡ªcertain things just can¡¯t be thought of in that way."


    At least, not when it came to matters of love.


    Ji Yu was unwilling to casually hurt anyone. Now that she knew Gu Qixiao wasn¡¯t a bad person, it was even less likely she¡¯d use underhanded means.


    "You don¡¯t need to overthink. Let¡¯s just quietly and happily celebrate a birthday¡ªit¡¯s good enough."


    In the end, Ji Yu didn¡¯t make any remarks that would dampen the mood. Spending the afternoon ying around with the kids turned out to be quite fulfilling for her.


    However, on her way back, Ji Yu couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that something had changed in how she saw Gu Qixiao.


    "Will you be celebrating your birthday with your family, or do you have other ns?" Gu Qixiao just wanted Ji Yu to be happy and didn¡¯t make any additional requests.


    "I¡¯ll head home." She knew her parents from the Ji family and Feng Qinqin would surely be waiting for her.


    Though she couldn¡¯t recall it herself, they all still remembered.


    Yet, before she got out of the car, Ji Yu couldn¡¯t help blurting out, "Do you want to join us for dinner?"


    She regretted it almost immediately after saying it. This wasn¡¯t something she should¡¯ve asked so casually.


    But Gu Qixiao epted naturally, "Sure."


    He even walked ahead of her into the house.


    By the time Ji Yu wanted to stop him, it was already toote.


    When Feng Qinqin saw Gu Qixiao with Ji Yu, her face immediately lit up with a knowing expression.


    She looked as though shepletely understood the situation. "Seems like there¡¯s been some progress between the two of you, huh?"


    Her eyes carried a hint of amusement, though she refrained from saying too much, aware that Ji Yu might still be wrestling with her own inner hesitation.


    Ji Yu, already ustomed to Feng Qinqin¡¯s nosy personality, decided to y dumb and act as though she hadn¡¯t heard anything.


    That evening, the dinner went smoothly and harmoniously overall. The only one who seemed less than thrilled was probably Ji Yuanzhou. But seeing the smile on Ji Yu¡¯s face, he ultimately held back his words.


    It wasn¡¯t untilter, when they were alone, that Ji Yuanzhou issued Gu Qixiao a quiet warning. "Just because Yu invited you to dinner doesn¡¯t mean anything more than wanting to celebrate her birthday. Don¡¯t get any ideas."


    Gu Qixiao raised an eyebrow, amused by his tone, "Do you think nothing can progress between Ji Yu and me? Honestly, I have a better shot than you ever will."


    Gu Qixiao had long since seen through Ji Yuanzhou¡¯s intentions. When it came to love, he understood these things clearly.


    Caught off guard by Gu Qixiao¡¯s blunt remark, Ji Yuanzhou¡¯s emotions turnedplicated. He didn¡¯t even know how to respond.


    "If you can¡¯te up with a reason to argue, then just keep this same attitude. But let me be clear¡ªJi Yu is mine."


    Gu Qixiao could be endlessly gentle with Ji Yu and present himself in one way to her, but when it came to Ji Yuanzhou, he would never adopt the same demeanor.


    Ji Yuanzhou frowned, filled with contempt for Gu Qixiao¡¯s duplicity. "If Yu ever found out about this side of you, she¡¯d never feel anything for you again."


    "Oh? Then let¡¯s wait and see. Let¡¯s see whether you expose me first, or I win Ji Yu over before that happens."


    In truth, Gu Qixiao wasn¡¯t entirely confident. But the side of him he disyed in front of Ji Yu was exactly the version of himself he wanted her to see.


    "What are you two standing around chatting about? Come over and eat cake!"


    Ji Yu, now somewhat used to this dynamic, decided to simply call them over.


    Feng Qinqin, observing the situation from the side, couldn¡¯t help herself. "What¡¯s going on with you and Gu Qixiao? Are you two really getting back together? And what about before¡ªdoes Gu Qixiao know you¡¯re his ex-wife?"


    That was a pretty important question.


    After all, if it wasn¡¯t rified, things would only grow awkward for everyer on.


    Ji Yu shook her head. "He doesn¡¯t know, but at the orphanage earlier, he gave me something."


    It was something she could never forget, something so meaningful that it had always mattered deeply to her.


    To receive this keepsake from someone else¡¯s hands stirred upplicated feelings inside her.


    "And how do you feel about Gu Qixiao? I just can¡¯t imagine you inviting a stranger to dinner."


    Feng Qinqin had a sharp sense for Ji Yu¡¯s personality and knew something was unusual this time.


    Ji Yu shook her head again. "For now, let¡¯s leave it as it is. I don¡¯t even know what¡¯s going on between us. Besides, didn¡¯t you tell me before that we shouldn¡¯t end up together?"


    That was then, and this was now.


    Feng Qinqin had since realized that Gu Qixiao wasn¡¯t as bad as she had once thought. Though he sometimes seemed a bit clueless, he wasn¡¯t unkind. A man like that wasn¡¯t the worst choice for her dear friend¡ªperhaps he even measured up.


    "I think Gu Qixiao treats you quite well. At the very least, he¡¯s sincere. If you truly like him, I¡¯d support you two."


    Her ability to change her stance so quickly left Ji Yu somewhat exasperated.


    Yet Ji Yu could no longer lie to herself¡ªshe did have feelings for Gu Qixiao.


    Especially after what had transpired today, Ji Yu began to understand¡ªher rtionship with Gu Qixiao had long be deeply entangled. From here on out, it seemed unlikely they could walk away without leaving scars.


    This birthday had brought the two of them closer, and it was clear that Ji Yu¡¯s attitude toward Gu Qixiao had begun to shift.

 Chapter 116: Change of Attitude

    <h4>Chapter 116: Chapter 116: Change of Attitude</h4>


    Everyone could sense the change, so how could Gu Qixiao not notice it? He also understood that Ji Yu might still be struggling with some things inside, but his attitude toward her hadn¡¯t changed one bit from beginning to end.


    So much so that even the new staff started teasing Ji Yu, "Sister Yu, look at the way you¡¯re acting now. Honestly, it¡¯s no different from being in a rtionship."


    That ambiguous feeling between the two of them was palpable to everyone, but it seemed like their dynamic was just a fraction away from fully clicking into ce.


    "You guys should stop thinking about this stuff. I¡¯ve seen the schedule, and there are quite a few surgeries lined up ahead."


    She knew these patients¡¯ cases couldn¡¯t be dyed and took the matter very seriously.


    However, perhaps things from before were still affecting Ji Yu, making her feel a little uncertain when facing the situation now.


    "Sister Yu, with your skills, who cares how many people out there doubt you? We all have faith in you. Besides, for the patients you handle who follow instructions, haven¡¯t they all recovered quite well?"


    Deep down, they were all confident in Ji Yu¡¯s abilities and naturally wouldn¡¯t be swayed by the chatter online.


    "Got it." Ji Yu had only been momentarily conflicted. With their reassurances, any lingering hesitation quickly dissipated.


    It¡¯s just that the cases she was handling here were quiteplicated. Every time Ji Yu saw them, she couldn¡¯t help but marvel, wondering how there were cases this intricate to begin with.


    "Tian, take a look at this. Can you handle it?"


    She was cultivating Tian¡¯s skills, knowing that she¡¯d need to take some time off when having her child. In the meantime, Tian was the one who would need to step in and take over her position.


    Tian hesitated for a moment. "Sister Yu, this case is prettyplicated. The burn coverage on the face is extensive. Even I don¡¯t haveplete confidence."


    Ji Yu smiled. "In that case, you¡¯ll assist me again as my second today. But after this, cases like this will require you to handle them independently."


    This could be considered a major responsibility she was assigning to Tian.


    Tian nodded, indicating he understood, but he couldn¡¯t help feeling unsure in his heart.


    After watching Ji Yuplete the surgery in person, he still felt like there was something missing. "Sister Yu, are you nning to take some time off for something? You seem like you¡¯re in a bit of a rushtely."


    "It¡¯s nothing. I just need you to get up to speed quickly with certain things, that¡¯s all."


    After all, it¡¯s not as though things here at the clinic could be put on hold while she was away.


    "By the way, weren¡¯t you the one overseeing Sun Yongxin¡¯s case? He should be ready to be discharged by now, right?"


    That patient had left quite an impression on them.


    "Discharge? Yes, he¡¯s been discharged. But it seems like he still has some matters he wants to discuss with you. Yesterday, he said he wanted to meet you. But I told him you weren¡¯t at the hospital, so he left for now."


    Ji Yu more or less guessed what it might be about, but there wasn¡¯t much she could do about it.


    Sure enough, not long after, Sun Yongxin showed up in Ji Yu¡¯s office with people in tow.


    "Doctor Ji, I hope you can release my nephew. I know this matter caused harm to you, but we¡¯ve already paid thepensation. Isn¡¯t this a bit unreasonable on your part?"


    His healed face now looked much sharper, and it only took one nce to see how simr he was to the other members of the Sun family.


    "I¡¯m sorry, Mr. Sun. I don¡¯t think I can help with this. If you¡¯re looking for someone, it¡¯d be best to go find Gu Qixiao first."


    After all, they all knew who was behind the arrangements for this matter.


    Sun Yongxin looked conflicted, his keen expression tinged with helplessness. "If I could make things clear with Mr. Gu, I wouldn¡¯t be here troubling Doctor Ji. Mr. Gu seems to care a great deal about you."


    So he clearly wasn¡¯t willing to release anyone.


    "What does this have to do with me?"


    Ji Yu blinked innocently. "I¡¯ve already exined the whole situation to you, and I received thepensation. I didn¡¯t call the police to have your nephew arrested. Yet you¡¯re acting like this whole thing is somehow my fault?"


    She hadid everything out clearly before, but now they were back bothering her again. Clearly, this was nothing but trouble.


    Perhaps realizing this wasn¡¯t a good look, Sun Yongxin seemed a bit awkward. "But our family only has this one boy left. The family line depends on him. I just hope Miss Ji can show mercy."


    Ji Yu raised her eyebrows, finding his reasoning rather amusing. "What, does your family have a throne that needs inheriting? If you can¡¯t find him, why don¡¯t you call the police? Maybe they can help."


    Initially, she had treated Sun Yongxin with some courtesy. But with how things looked now, Ji Yu understood that while some people might seem decent, their actions could be downright embarrassing.


    "Mr. Sun, if there¡¯s nothing else, please leave. Your face is no longer under our care. Whatever you do with it from now on, there¡¯s no need toe back to us."


    After all, their rtionship was purely a doctor-patient one.


    Were they expecting her to fulfill some kind of parental obligation?


    "Miss Ji, I can pay you a significant amount of money if that¡¯s what it takes. Just please show some leniency."


    Ji Yu frowned. "I don¡¯t need your money. There are payments I can ept with a clear conscience, and there are some that are literally deadly¡ªthose, I won¡¯t touch."


    Just then, Gu Qixiao happened to be waiting downstairs, ready to go have dinner with Ji Yu. Seeing that she hadn¡¯te down for a while, he decided toe up to check on her.


    "It seems Mr. Sun is quite dissatisfied with how things were handled previously. Coming all the way to see Yu, could it be that there¡¯s still something amiss?"


    He was clearly very concerned about things involving Ji Yu.


    Now seeing someoneing to trouble her, he instinctively stepped in front of Ji Yu to shield her.


    This was something Ji Yu was already used to, but the current situation only left her feeling helpless.


    "President Gu, you¡¯ve misunderstood. I simply came to apologize to Miss Ji. After all, what my nephew did before was indeed over the line."


    He subtly alluded to the matter with Sun Shou.


    But Gu Qixiao wasn¡¯t the least bit interested in this topic. "If that¡¯s the case, then your apology is alreadyplete. Shouldn¡¯t you be leaving now?"


    He didn¡¯t want Ji Yu to have to deal with this kind of thing.


    But Ji Yu was long used to such matters. As long as they didn¡¯t cross any severe lines, she often chose to turn a blind eye.


    If something like this happened again, though, there¡¯d be no way Ji Yu could keep her temper in check.


    Seeing the situation spiraling out of control, Sun Yongxin realized he couldn¡¯t afford to keep being stubborn and prepared to leave, intending to devise a different strategyter.


    "Miss Ji, I hope you¡¯ll seriously consider what I¡¯ve said. I¡¯m sure you¡¯ll understand where I¡¯ming from."

 Chapter 117 Release the Person

    <h4>Chapter 117: Chapter 117 Release the Person</h4>


    To be honest, Ji Yu¡¯s attitude toward this matter has always been clear.


    Now, hearing this sentence, she was a bit speechless, "It seems he still couldn¡¯t resist trying to threaten me even as he¡¯s leaving, but Sun Shou should still be alive, right?"


    She nced at Gu Qixiao, worried he might really lose his temper and kill someone.


    "He¡¯s alive. I would never let something happen to him like that."


    But Sun Shou was already living a fate worse than death.


    He didn¡¯t want Ji Yu to see such a grim scene, so he spoke rather vaguely.


    However, how could Ji Yu not perceive the meaning hidden behind his words? She understood Sun Shou¡¯s situation likely wasn¡¯t good.


    "Looks like I underestimated President Gu indeed, but honestly, these kinds of things don¡¯t need to be hidden from me."


    What she had witnessed before might have been even darker than what Gu Qixiao and the others imagined.


    So such matters really didn¡¯t bother her.


    Gu Qixiao hesitated, "Do you want to see Sun Shou?"


    He had considered it before, but Ji Yu standing before him now gave him great courage.


    "What¡¯s there not to see? Since you¡¯ve invited me to take a look, I¡¯ll reluctantly agree to check it out."


    She was curious to see what was going on here.


    Gu Qixiao took Ji Yu to a dimly lit basement, where a crawling human figure could be vaguely seen on the ground.


    When the lights turned on, sure enough, it was Sun Shou.


    The moment Sun Shou saw Gu Qixiao and Ji Yu, his face was drenched in tears, "Please let me go. I promise I¡¯ll never do something like this again."


    He had been tortured to the point of losing his features, looking quite frightful, but Ji Yu remained calm and collected.


    "The things you did were indeed disgusting, but we absolutely won¡¯t do anything illegal or criminal."


    Though, technically, this situation bordered on that; Ji Yu merely chose to ignore it instinctively.


    Gu Qixiao watched Ji Yu¡¯sposed demeanor and suddenly felt that she was indeed the one most suited to him. For a regr person, witnessing such a scene would surely evoke fear, but Ji Yu remained indifferent.


    This was probably why Ji Yu captivated him¡ªshe always brought unexpected surprises, no matter the circumstance.


    Nheless, Ji Yu intended to minimize conflict, "Just send him to the police station directly. We can¡¯t keep him locked up here forever. If he gets desperate and retaliatester, it won¡¯t end well."


    Some things are best handled with difort when necessary, and release when unavoidable.


    Gu Qixiao naturally didn¡¯t reject Ji Yu¡¯s suggestion, "Alright."


    As he apanied Ji Yu out, he had already arranged for others to send Sun Shou to the police station.


    Ji Yu was no longer resistant to interacting with Gu Qixiao.


    However, there weren¡¯t any overly intimate gestures between the two.


    From the perspective of others, this dynamic seemed perfectly normal. But for Song Xuan, witnessing it was akin to a sudden and devastating shock.


    "Xiao, how could you bring another woman home?" Tears welled up in her eyes, as if what she saw was an earth-shattering betrayal.


    Ji Yu arched her brow, surprised by Song Xuan¡¯s dramatic usation, "You must have misunderstood. We simply have other matters to attend to."


    She had no interest in seeing Song Xuan slit her wrists again. Such incidents left anyone witnessing them with a weight of guilt.


    What¡¯s more, Gu Qixiao shared a particr connection with her.


    But Song Xuan wasn¡¯t listening anymore. Seeing Ji Yu standing beside Gu Qixiao in the vi, shepletely lost control.


    "Didn¡¯t you say you wouldn¡¯t fall for Xiao? Why are you trying to steal him from me?"


    She was crying messily, her emotions unraveling, as if the weight of the entire world had copsed on her.


    Ji Yu frowned, unsure of how to assess the situation before her.


    "What do you mean? When did I everpete with you for Gu Qixiao? And are your tears here meant to use us of merely standing together?"


    This was hard to ssify as any sort of normal behavior, and Ji Yu felt like her head was about to explode.


    She couldn¡¯t fathom how Song Xuan managed to conjure tears at every possible moment.


    "That¡¯s not what I meant! I¡¯m saying you shouldn¡¯t have entered Xiao¡¯s house. This is our home. You, an outsider, shouldn¡¯t be here!"


    In Song Xuan¡¯s skewed logic, this was her and Gu Qixiao¡¯s shared space¡ªno other woman had any right to show up here. Yet Ji Yu¡¯s appearance clearly triggered her sense of crisis.


    Besides, she hated this whole situation.


    What gave Ji Yu the audacity to cross such a line?


    "Ji Yu, you¡¯re the one who doesn¡¯t belong here. Don¡¯t think you can steal my Xiao just because of this!"


    Ji Yu raised an eyebrow, ncing toward Gu Qixiao. She was now even more convinced that Song Xuan¡¯s erratic behavior in matters concerning Gu Qixiao contained signs of delusion.


    Even something as simple as normal proximity could drive Song Xuan into hysteria.


    Gu Qixiao pinched the bridge of his nose, clearly exasperated by the situation before him, "Song Xuan, when will you stop causing trouble? Didn¡¯t I say I¡¯d help you find a suitable husband?"


    He couldn¡¯t understand why Song Xuan was so obsessed.


    Wouldn¡¯t it be better for both of them to separate?


    This situation couldn¡¯t possibly lead to anything good for either of them.


    "Xiao, how can you just dismiss me like this? I¡¯m the woman destined to marry you! You promised to take care of me for life. And my brother¡¯s death¡ªdo you n to repay me just like this?"


    She cried hysterically, as though Gu Qixiao hadmitted an unforgivable sin against her.


    Even Ji Yu felt stifled watching this, let alone Gu Qixiao.


    "Enough. Your issues are none of my business. I have other matters to attend to and won¡¯t get involved."


    Her tone was cold, as though this entire ordeal had nothing to do with her.


    But Song Xuan, for some iprehensible reason, suddenly snapped, grabbing Ji Yu by the hair and seemingly ready to yank her toward the nearby table. Gu Qixiao finally lost his patience then.


    He pped Song Xuan hard across the face and pushed her hand away. "What exactly are you trying to do?"


    His gaze burned with fury, evidently outraged by Song Xuan¡¯s violent outburst toward Ji Yu.


    Song Xuan felt a sting across her cheek, her eyes full of despair as she stared at Gu Qixiao. "It¡¯s her face, isn¡¯t it, Xiao? If my face looked as beautiful as hers, would you look at me more often?"


    She had already convinced herself this was the reason, leaving no room for any other exnation.


    Ji Yu nced at the few strands of hair that had been yanked loose, her eyes brimming with fury. She might not care about several other matters, but this¡ªtampering with her hair¡ªwas a serious offense she couldn¡¯t possibly ignore.

 Chapter 118 Trouble Caused by a Single Strand of Hair

    <h4>Chapter 118: Chapter 118 Trouble Caused by a Single Strand of Hair</h4>


    "You¡¯re losing your mind¡ªfine, but pulling my hair? What¡¯s that supposed to mean?"


    She was onlying to sort out Sun Shou¡¯s matter, right? How did it spiral into this mess?


    She winced at the sight of the two strands of hair. "Do you even understand how important hair is to a woman? And you had the audacity to pull mine?"


    Clearly, the focus of the conflict had shifted.


    Even Song Xuan hadn¡¯t reacted yet when Ji Yu had already yanked out three strands of her hair.


    Looking at the extra strands beside her own lost hair, Ji Yu finally felt some equilibrium.


    "Alright, this time neither of us owes the other anything. But if you dare to touch my hair again, don¡¯t me me foring after you."


    With that, Ji Yu left in a carefree manner.


    Dealing with Song Xuan had little to do with ancient rity or precision; their rtionship might not be that significant.


    Ultimately, the matter should have been left to the underlying causes to resolve.


    Gu Qixiao looked at Song Xuan, who was still down on the floor. His emotions wereplex, unsure of what to say to diffuse the situation.


    "You already know I love Ji Yu. Why do you still care about such things? Moreover, I¡¯ve told you before¡ªyou¡¯re my sister, not my wife."


    What she had just said sounded downright obstinate.


    It was the first time Gu Qixiao realized she harbored such feelings.


    "Xiao, how can you treat me like this? I¡¯ve dreamt of marrying you, but you¡¯ve done this. I really can¡¯t ept it."


    She didn¡¯t want to face the truth, but it seemed like things had long spiraled out of her control.


    "Think carefully about this. Stop interpreting our rtionship with such emotions, and about the p earlier¡ªthat was wrong of me. I¡¯m sorry."


    His tone toward Song Xuan remained cold, but Song Xuan still clung to hope, believing there might be other opportunities ahead.


    Even the servant who tried to help her up was pushed away¡ªa clear sign that she was furious.


    Meanwhile, Gu Qixiao wanted to exin to Ji Yu properly.


    But when the call connected, he didn¡¯t know where to start.


    "I¡¯m well aware of whatever you might say, so you don¡¯t need to justify anything. To be honest, I wasn¡¯t angry from the start."


    This kind of situation should never have existed in the first ce.


    She didn¡¯t want topete with Song Xuan over anything. If Gu Qixiao couldn¡¯t handle this properly, she¡¯d leave it for another time.


    For now, the issue was shelved. However it unfoldedter would depend on the circumstances.


    Deep down, she understood this well, and thus never bore resentment toward Gu Qixiao.


    "You need to take her to see a psychologist. Her condition is clearly abnormal."


    She already knew this was the necessary course of action and offered the most genuine advice.


    Yet Gu Qixiao was frustrated. "She resists anything rted to psychologists. I don¡¯t even know what she¡¯s trying to achieve."


    Previously, Gu Qixiao had arranged for Song Xuan to visit a psychologist, but at the hospital, her extreme aversion caused the n to fall through.


    "Perhaps she¡¯s hiding some deeply unmentionable secret."


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t know how to assess Song Xuan.


    All she could say was that losing oneself was perhaps the most frightening thing, as evident from Song Xuan¡¯s state, which should have been intervened upon long ago.


    "You don¡¯t need to exin much to me. I understand what¡¯s in your heart right now, and I get what you mean. I would never dwell on issues rted to Song Xuan."


    She was curious about what else Song Xuan might try.


    "Alright, since you have nothing else to say, I¡¯ll hang up. I have other matters to attend to."


    In whatever Ji Yu did, she always carried herself with decisiveness and efficiency.


    Gu Qixiao listened to the dial tone on the other end, inexplicably unsure whether Ji Yu might decisively abandon him in the future, too.


    Ji Yu, indeed, had things to attend to.


    As for this renowned actress, Ji Yu was no stranger.


    Still, her face now was in such a dire state¡ªit definitely needed to be dealt with properly.


    "Doctor Ji, I know my face is terrifying now. Tell me¡ªcan my face ever return to normal?"


    "Returning to normal is possible, but your facial expressions won¡¯t be as natural as before." Ji Yu understood what she was asking.


    As an actress, this kind of issue could be fatal.


    Sure enough, the woman¡¯s expression looked grim, but she also recognized that many believed her ruined face wasn¡¯t salvageable. Having an option was already a miracle.


    "You can go back and think it over. I can help restore you to your original state, but your face can¡¯t undergo any more procedures after that."


    Given how damaged things had be, stabilization was the only recourse.


    The actress nodded, expressing her understanding. "And the confidentiality here..."


    "Don¡¯t worry. Nobody will find out about your facial issues. But first, tell me how many procedures you¡¯ve had done. That will give me a clearer picture."


    Ji Yu remained highly cautious about cases like this.


    At the very least, the fake imnts needed to be removed as soon as possible.


    Li Shishi sighed helplessly. "Actually, I¡¯ve had multiple adjustments to my nose and chin, but the results weren¡¯t great. I kept tweaking things until thest procedure caused my face to start deteriorating. That¡¯s when I stopped."


    No woman wishes to grow old and look unattractive, after all.


    "With your face in this state, continuing to make minor adjustments is simply a waste."


    Ji Yu felt genuine pity for this former beauty.


    "Being a celebrity means you¡¯ll inevitably face criticism about your appearance. Even as an award-winning actress, you¡¯re not immune."


    Talking about her struggles, Li Shishi¡¯s face showed a hint of dejection. "I know exactly what¡¯s wrong with my face, so I wanted to try fixing it. I never thought it¡¯d end up like this."


    Her regret over this matter ran deep.


    But finding a way to repair the damage was something of a distant hope.


    "Everyone¡¯s standards of beauty differ. Even after adjustments, there will always be people who find fault. It¡¯s quite normal."


    Anyone going through such circumstances would likely share the same mentality.


    But natural beauty remained the most pleasing to the eyes.


    "Don¡¯t chase perfection excessively. I know you might still have lingering attachments to such things, but pursuing more procedures after your face recovers will only make the situation more severe."


    Ji Yu said all that needed to be said. Whether or not Li Shishi chose to listen was up to her.


    "I¡¯ll think about it." Deep down, she still hoped to have the surgery done quickly but feared there might be better experts who could guarantee her facial expressions would remain.


    Ji Yu nodded slightly. "We¡¯ll stay in touch via phone."


    She understood patients like these well¡ªsuch thoughts weren¡¯t umon, although the oues almost never turned out well.

 Chapter 119 Exposure

    <h4>Chapter 119: Chapter 119 Exposure</h4>


    However, this time, things were clearly not what Ji Yu had anticipated.


    When she saw Li Shishi¡¯s photo posted online, she had already started to feel unease.


    Sure enough, the next day she was met with Li Shishi¡¯s questioning.


    "Doctor Ji, shouldn¡¯t you give me an exnation? You obviously said you wouldn¡¯t expose my information, yet the day after I visited your hospital, my photo was leaked. Shouldn¡¯t you exin this to me?"


    Her eyes carried a furious glint.


    The face that was already somewhat ghastly now appeared downright terrifying with that anger.


    "I didn¡¯t leak your information, and the angle of your photo clearly suggests it was taken secretly. This likely has nothing to do with me."


    She was already well-acquainted with situations like this.


    "Moreover, weren¡¯t you aware of whether there were paparazzi around you when you came?"


    Li Shishi instantly calmed down, saying, "There¡¯s no need to confirm if there were paparazzi. At that time, my surroundings were entirely empty."


    She had covered herself tightly, and even if someone wanted to find her, it would be impossible to identify her.


    "Besides, given how much your face has changed, anyone who recognized you might have already known about your situation."


    Ji Yu had observed her face carefully. For someone to pinpoint her so urately, they must know her well.


    "Got it." Li Shishi, after years of navigating through murky waters, naturally understood the implication of those words.


    "This time, it was my mistake. I hope Doctor Ji can arrange the surgery soon."


    Since the matter has already been exposed, it would be better to proceed with the surgery quickly.


    "Aren¡¯t you nning to hesitate a bit more?" Ji Yu had remembered her attitude was different just the day before.


    "My face must recover as soon as possible. I don¡¯t care about the things people say; I¡¯ll treat it as mere traffic. I can ride this wave of attention to a higher position."


    Her face was beyond full restoration, so her only option was to leverage these trends for sympathy.


    Maintaining her fanbase was the key.


    Ji Yu raised her brow, finding Li Shishi remarkably rational. Thinking this far ahead wasn¡¯t easy.


    "Alright, your surgery can be arranged for tomorrow."


    She was confident in the surgery¡¯s oue for Li Shishi, though what happens after depended entirely on her ability to seize opportunities.


    Li Shishi nodded, "Starting today, I¡¯ll stay in the hospital to prepare. After all, they already know about this matter, so the impact on me won¡¯t be too significant."


    Ji Yu grew increasingly curious about Li Shishi. "Alright."


    Meanwhile, the online buzz continued, even detailing the exact time Li Shishi entered the hospital.


    "It seems this person knows your life thoroughly. However, considering it¡¯s rted to Congxin, I have to wonder if they¡¯re targeting me as well."


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t intend to offload responsibility for this incident either, particrly given that Congxin had recently attracted its fair share of troublemakers.


    "No matter who they¡¯re targeting, anyone whoes for me, Li Shishi, is my enemy. I won¡¯t just let this go."


    Li Shishi stayed remarkably calm about the matter and had already arranged for someone to investigate the specifics. However, so far, there were no concrete findings.


    Her gaze toward Ji Yu no longer harbored any anger. "Doctor Ji is a clever person. For this surgery, I hope you¡¯ll do your best. I¡¯ll also work to get to the bottom of this as soon as possible."


    She clearly distinguished who was simply caught in the crossfire.


    Ji Yu, for a moment, admired Li Shishi¡¯s courage.


    She, too, wanted to uncover whoever was pulling strings behind the scenes.


    Their thoughts aligned on this matter, and by the next day, they had found relevant clues.


    Li Shishi looked calmly at the assistant in front of her, seemingly unsurprised. "Tell me, who arranged for you to do this? Rest assured, I won¡¯t do anything to you, but you need to identify the mastermind behind this."


    She was about to have surgery, yet Li Shishi still managed to inquire about the hidden culprit soposedly.


    Ji Yu prepared nearby, tuning into the questioning as her curiosity piqued.


    The assistant pressed her lips together, her face pale. "Sister Shishi, I..."


    "Don¡¯t ramble on with useless nonsense. I have surgery soon. If you speak clearly, we can discuss this matter calmly; if not, then I¡¯ll directly send you to the police station."


    She showed no intention of sparing the assistant¡¯s dignity.


    Ji Yu, havingpleted her preparations, casually took a seat nearby and replied to Hong¡¯s message.


    [Sister Yu, this IP is clearly associated with the one targeting you previously. Should I hack theirwork?]


    [No need, just send me the data directly.]


    When Ji Yu saw Song Xuan yesterday, she had already anticipated some trouble. Seeing this information now didn¡¯t surprise her in the least.


    "Miss Li, I may already know who¡¯s orchestrating the dirty tricks behind the scenes. As for your assistant here, I can¡¯t confirm if they¡¯replicit."


    "Oh? Are they targeting you then?" Li Shishi tilted her head toward Ji Yu.


    "That¡¯s one way to put it." Ji Yu¡¯s face showed faint resignation.


    "If the person contacting you is a Miss Song, then there¡¯s no need to keep hiding it. I know her temperament very well."


    With matters escting like this, no one could expect to walk away unscathed.


    Ji Yu already knew how to deal with Song Xuan next, but had no interest in dragging things out unnecessarily.


    The assistant¡¯s expression showed surprise; Ji Yu seemed to have hit the nail on the head.


    "For something this trivial, she¡¯s managed to implicate others as well¡ªreally quite something," Ji Yu sneered. She promptly forwarded all rted information to Gu Qixiao; what happens next would depend on him.


    "Miss Li, can we begin the surgery now? I believe you¡¯ve been itching to move past this face for quite some time."


    Li Shishi understood Ji Yu¡¯s intent.


    She hadn¡¯t taken serious issue with the matter; after her initial flurry of emotion, she had already calcted her next steps.


    There was no way she¡¯d allow Song Xuan to walk away unscathed.


    "Alright."


    The surgery went exceptionally well. Ji Yu had long nned how to reconstruct her face. Though the effects would take some time to fully show, at least everything that needed removal had been excised.


    Li Shishi looked at the extracted imnts with a disgusted frown. "Is there anything wrong with these?"


    "There are many issues. I trust you chose a reputable stic surgery clinic, so the appearance of these things only proves one thing¡ªyou were set up."


    Ji Yu ced the items aside and spoke candidly. "All these imnts are problematic. They would gradually burden you, so you need to seriously deliberate over this."


    They absolutely needed to uncover who was sabotaging her from behind.

 Chapter 120 Black Hand

    <h4>Chapter 120: Chapter 120 ck Hand</h4>


    Li Shishi¡¯s expression was grim. The person behind the scenes obviously wanted to ensure she¡¯d never have a chance to act again.


    She needed to investigate thoroughly.


    "Alright, I understand what you mean, but for this matter, I need you to cooperate with me. Don¡¯t worry, you¡¯ll get some benefits from it too."


    This kind of thing definitely works out better if both parties win.


    Ji Yu raised her eyebrows, wanting to know what other ns she had.


    "My n is simple. Later, I¡¯ll post a video, and you just need to im it publicly."


    There wasn¡¯t much of an issue with that.


    Seeing her not needing much preparation, Ji Yu returned to her office.


    Unexpectedly, Gu Qixiao was already there waiting, clearly anxious and a bit at a loss.


    "Are you alright?" He looked at Ji Yu with concern, as if worried the earlier events might have affected her.


    Ji Yu smiled, "I¡¯m fine. Did you see the message I sent you earlier? Actually, Li Shishi is quite sensible; she knows what she wants, so you don¡¯t need to worry about this matter."


    She understood how Gu Qixiao might feel after seeing those messages, though people aren¡¯t alwayspletely controlled by their emotions.


    Li Shishi, for instance, was someone who understood everything and would never easily let herself be manipted by others.


    "You don¡¯t have to worry about this. To be honest, I¡¯ve long suspected Song Xuan would do these things. But you might not fully understand her situation."


    Even though Ji Yu had previously agreed not to bring up certain matters, since Song Xuan had broken her promise first, she could hardly demand Ji Yu to continue abiding by her word.


    Ji Yu wasn¡¯t sure how to judge the situation, especially since Gu Qixiao still seemed to harbor some feelings for Song Xuan. Ultimately, he should decide the oue of these matters.


    "This is why I said from the beginning that as long as Song Xuan was around you, it would be difficult for us to be together."


    Anyone witnessing such drama would find it annoying.


    Given the current situation, there¡¯s not much to be surprised about.


    For a moment, Gu Qixiao was at a loss for words. He had sensed these issues before but never imagined Song Xuan would be this bold.


    He liked Ji Yu but didn¡¯t want her to get hurt.


    "I¡¯m sorry. I want to apologize to you for today¡¯s events. I will also make Song Xuan exin everything to you."


    Since the matter needed resolution, it was better to resolve it as soon as possible. Dragging things out would only make the truth harder to ascertain.


    Meanwhile, when Song Xuan noticed her phone¡¯s screen had gone ck, she knew that this time the truth was likely going toe out.


    But recalling her standing in Gu Qixiao¡¯s heart calmed her; there was nothing to fear.


    "Miss Song, President Gu asked me to take you out for a bit."


    Song Xuan wasn¡¯t surprised. She had anticipated this would happen and calmly headed to Ji Yu¡¯s office.


    When she saw Ji Yu, her expression was filled with disdain. "What, are you looking to pick a fight with me? Do you think you¡¯re anything special, trying to take me on?"


    Her attitude toward Ji Yu had never been positive.


    The current situation only intensified her disdain toward Ji Yu.


    "You can¡¯t solve your own problems, so now you want Xiao to help you? Look at how pathetic you are. I bet you¡¯ll only be able to rely on men to resolve your issues going forward."


    She had long been open about her contempt for Ji Yu, and she wasn¡¯t afraid to fully disy her hostility right in front of Gu Qixiao.


    Ji Yu wasn¡¯t surprised by her behavior, just as she had said before¡ªSong Xuan had been clear about her intentions from the start, which, in a way, was a good thing.


    "Xiao, how could you side with this woman? She¡¯s clearly using you. Think about everything she¡¯s done before! Don¡¯t you feel she¡¯s gone too far? She¡¯s utterly maniptive."


    Her expression grew agitated, her gaze toward Ji Yu resembling that of someone looking at an enemy.


    "First, you and I aren¡¯t enemies, and I don¡¯t think you¡¯ve done anything to me. Second, I haven¡¯t tried to manipte Gu Qixiao in any way. Everything you¡¯re saying is baseless. Third, involving other people in this only highlights how problematic your ims are."


    Who would be dragged into unnecessary drama and not fight back?


    And her prior behavior had already made everything quite clear.


    "There¡¯s no need to use this kind of underhanded method to deal with me. I know you¡¯re jealous of my looks, but your face is destined to stay the way it is."


    Ji Yu had long seen through Song Xuan¡¯s mindset. If there really was talk about who was taking from whom, it wasn¡¯t necessarily as clear-cut as it seemed.


    She nced at Gu Qixiao nearby and noticed he was also looking at her.


    "If you think I have ulterior motives, then I advise you to kick me out immediately."


    She understood that everything happening here might be shocking to them, but Ji Yu could handle most of it.


    "I told you before that the earlier issue could be resolved with money because it only involved me. But now you¡¯ve crossed the line by breaching my patient¡¯s privacy¡ªthere¡¯s no way I can let that slide."


    These dynamics required rity, and it was the perfect opportunity to straighten things out.


    Ji Yu turned to Gu Qixiao, "I appreciate everything you¡¯ve done for me before, but we absolutely cannot be together. You¡¯re surrounded by too much drama."


    She wasn¡¯t a fan of situations like these, and Song Xuan¡¯s behavior felt like an unspoken deration that their story was over.


    "What do you mean? Are you saying you don¡¯t intend to keep entangling with Xiao anymore?"


    Song Xuan was secretly delighted to hear this but dared not show it too obviously.


    "What she said doesn¡¯t represent my feelings. I promised to find her a suitable marriage partner, and I meant it when I said I have no ulterior motives. Do you doubt me?"


    Gu Qixiao gazed intently at Ji Yu, his eyes holding an intensity that felt capable of melting her.


    Ji Yu sighed; she had long grown ustomed to these situations. "But can you ensure such things won¡¯t happen again? How do you n to deal with Song Xuan?"


    She had already made her judgment on these matters.


    Surely, he wouldn¡¯t just stand by and watch Song Xuan end up in trouble, right? Since that wasn¡¯t an option, this confrontation was ultimately pointless.


    "I¡¯m telling you all this to make sure you understand: your surroundings are undeniably a mess. As for Miss Song¡¯s motives, you know them better than anyone."


    Choosing to turn a blind eye was also a kind of excess, something Ji Yu disliked in people and didn¡¯t wish to see continue.


    "I will never fight over a man!"

 Chapter 121 Avoid Trouble

    <h4>Chapter 121: Chapter 121 Avoid Trouble</h4>


    Gu Qixiao was momentarily stunned by her words, but he quickly understood what Ji Yu meant¡ªit was nothing more than her feeling that the situation before them was a waste of time.


    "I don¡¯t have that kind of intention, don¡¯t overthink it. As for the previous matter, I¡¯ve already decided how to handle it."


    He knew it was impossible to mete out overly harsh punishment to Song Xuan. "Until we find a suitable person for her to marry, she¡¯s absolutely not allowed to take a single step out of her room."


    He didn¡¯t want Song Xuan to make things troublesome for Ji Yu.


    Ji Yu raised an eyebrow. "Is that so? That truly seems like a severe punishment. But for me, this situation doesn¡¯t really have much of an effect. She should go and apologize to my client."


    She didn¡¯t like dealing with situations like this.


    Song Xuan let out a sarcasticugh, as if she had just heard something utterly ridiculous. "You think I¡¯m going to apologize to that old hag? Absolutely not!"


    "That¡¯s not up to you."


    Ji Yu ignored Song Xuan¡¯s reaction and looked directly at Gu Qixiao. Her meaning was clear: as long as her message was conveyed, that was enough.


    Gu Qixiao knew very well that Song Xuan had been in the wrong, so he agreed to her request without hesitation. He took Song Xuan straight to Li Shishi¡¯s hospital room.


    Sure enough, it was obvious that there was some prior connection between Li Shishi and Song Xuan. "I didn¡¯t expect it to be you."


    She should have guessed sooner that it was Song Xuan.


    "All I did was casuallyment on your face earlier, and you¡¯ve held a grudge until now. It seems you really don¡¯t have much tolerance for others."


    Ji Yu raised an eyebrow again; it was apparent that there was indeed some history between the two. So it wasn¡¯t entirely Ji Yu¡¯s fault that Li Shishi got dragged into this.


    Song Xuan¡¯s gaze carried a trace of malice. "Is your face really that much better than mine? Soon, you¡¯ll be nothing more than what you are now!"


    This unexpected statement was truly surprising.


    But Ji Yu didn¡¯t feel like assessing the rights and wrongs of the situation. All she could say was that a woman¡¯s face really did seem to hold significant importance.


    "I brought you here to apologize, not to argue with her over something like this."


    Ji Yu¡¯s expression remained calm; she wasn¡¯t interested in overthinking things.


    Gu Qixiao stepped in at the right moment. "Apologize, or prepare to pack your bags and head abroad."


    At his words, Song Xuan visibly tensed. It had been hard enough for her to secure her position by Gu Qixiao¡¯s side, especially with Ji Yu watching like a hawk. There was no way she¡¯d let go so easily.


    "I apologize. Miss Li, I¡¯m sorry. I won¡¯t dare to do it again."


    Looking at Song Xuan in this state, Ji Yu felt a twinge of unease. Perhaps it was because the current Song Xuan seemed excessively meek, which unsettled her.


    "Since the matter is resolved and the truth is out, take her away, and make sure something like this doesn¡¯t happen again."


    She didn¡¯t want to see such incidents urring around her.


    Besides, why would Song Xuan go to such lengths for someone she liked?


    It was obvious she couldn¡¯t have him, and yet she persisted in feeding her jealousy. Was love really that important?


    As Song Xuan was escorted away by Assistant Li, she still looked unwilling to ept the oue, her gaze toward Ji Yu filled with resentment.


    Ji Yu sighed helplessly. "I think I need to have a proper talk with you, President Gu. Some things simply can¡¯t be left unattended."


    Someone had to step up and resolve this situation.


    Gu Qixiao knew that Ji Yu was likely to say something cutting again. But he also understood that this time, it was his own fault for not handling things well enough. Otherwise, Ji Yu wouldn¡¯t have turned out this way.


    "Yu, I¡¯m sorry." His first words were an apology.


    His tone was sincere.


    But Ji Yu couldn¡¯t help feeling that the entire situation was tinged with helplessness.


    In circumstances like this, anyone would feel at a loss.


    "Actually, you don¡¯t have to apologize to me. This matter doesn¡¯t directly have much to do with you, but you just so happened to be the catalyst. I¡¯m perfectly aware of the rtionship between you and Song Xuan."


    She paused after saying this, recalling some of Song Xuan¡¯s earlier remarks, which, in truth, carried a degree of validity.


    "I don¡¯t know how you used to get along with Song Xuan, but since you gave her hope, why would you turn around and crush it like this?"


    Gu Qixiao frowned slightly, clearly disagreeing. He stepped forward and took Ji Yu¡¯s hand. "I can ignore her affairs. What I owed before, I¡¯ve already repaid nearly in full."


    He had given Song Xuan the best life he could, and there was no longer any need to dwell on these matters.


    Ji Yu raised an eyebrow. "If you¡¯re doing this for my sake, it¡¯s really not necessary. I¡¯ve always been prettyid-back about rtionships."


    No one was indispensable.


    And Gu Qixiao was no exception.


    Yet, ever since meeting Ji Yu, that belief seemed to have lost its power.


    "I don¡¯t know how to exin it to you, but sometimes feelings really don¡¯t make sense."


    Ji Yu suddenly felt speechless when she remembered the man before her was her ex-husband. They¡¯d been so decisive back then.


    Now that Gu Qixiao was intent on rekindling things, if he found out the truth, wouldn¡¯t it just be incredibly awkward?


    She looked at Gu Qixiao with pity. "You don¡¯t need to overthink these things. Let¡¯s just rify what needs rifying."


    She didn¡¯t want to argue with him, especially since his brain didn¡¯t always seem to process things properly.


    Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t understand why she was looking at him like that. Somehow, he felt Ji Yu was hiding something from him.


    "Yu, are you keeping something from me? I can¡¯t help but feel your gaze toward me is a little... off."


    And then there was that crypticment Ji Yuanzhou had made earlier.


    Ji Yu smiled faintly. "This is something you¡¯re better off not knowing. After all, even kindhearted lies need to be experienced and appreciated sometimes."


    If this matter were revealed, it would leave everyone awkward.


    However, Ji Yu had decided to bring up the issue of the child today.


    "I know you¡¯ve always been curious about the child I¡¯m carrying. In truth, this child is from that one night we were together. You don¡¯t have to worry too much about it¡ªI can raise the child perfectly on my own."


    Originally, Ji Yu hadn¡¯t nned on mentioning the child, but seeing Gu Qixiao like this made her feel it was better to make things clear.


    Otherwise, who knew what kind of misunderstanding might ariseter?


    At first, Gu Qixiao had no reaction, but when Ji Yu said the child was from their time together, his face frozepletely. He didn¡¯t even know where to ce his hands or feet.


    "What¡¯s with that expression? If you don¡¯t want the child, that¡¯s fine. I was already nning to raise the child on my own, so you don¡¯t need to get involved too much."


    She knew Mr. Gu was a reasonable person, so she wasn¡¯t worried about how things would unfold.

 Chapter 122 The Child Is Yours

    <h4>Chapter 122: Chapter 122 The Child Is Yours</h4>


    Gu Qixiao just hadn¡¯t processed it yet. At first, he always thought the matter of the child needed time to ponder, but Ji Yu suddenly dropped such a bombshell.


    "You don¡¯t need to worry that I¡¯ll ask you for child support or anything like that. I never had any other intentions."


    She simply hoped to give the child a chance to have a father. Even if the two of them weren¡¯t together, at the very least, the child shouldn¡¯t be deprived of that connection.


    She thought about the children in the orphanage and their yearning for parents. Suddenly, she understood. No matter how much love she gave to the childter, it couldn¡¯tpare to the love from a real father.


    "That¡¯s not what I meant." When he heard Ji Yu speak like this, he got a little anxious, worried she might misunderstand his intentions.


    "I was just too emotional. I really didn¡¯t expect that this child is mine."


    He had been thinking that even if the child wasn¡¯t his, he could still treat them as his own. But Ji Yu¡¯s words thoroughly made him realize.


    So, this child belonged to the two of them.


    How could such an unexpected joy not move him?


    Ji Yu looked at him and didn¡¯t know what to say. "You don¡¯t need to be this worked up. Honestly, I didn¡¯t intend to marry you just because of the child."


    After all, they would need to see how things went. If Gu Qixiao turned out not to be a suitable father, then it might be better to find the child a stepdad.


    Gu Qixiao had already taken Ji Yu as the person by his side for good. How could he not be excited? "Why didn¡¯t you tell me sooner?"


    "Because I was afraid certain people would think I have ulterior motives?"


    But Ji Yu also worried that Gu Qixiao might have ulterior motives. However, from the current situation, it seemed unlikely. His reaction made it clear.


    This silly look of his clearly showed he waspletely clueless about the matter of the child.


    "I¡¯m really emotional right now. Don¡¯t worry, I promise I¡¯ll take good care of you two from now on."


    He knew Ji Yu would surely give birth to the child. In his mind, he was already nning how to register their marriage and organize the wedding.


    Ji Yu looked at him and felt particrly exasperated. "You really know how to dream big. I never said I¡¯d marry you because of the child. I was just being upfront with you."


    Besides, it was impossible for this child to be raised by Gu Qixiao.


    Gu Qixiao¡¯s expression turned serious. "Don¡¯t you want our child to have aplete family? Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll take good care of you two in the future."


    A child and the woman he liked as his wife¡ªhow could Gu Qixiao not think about such a good thing?


    Ji Yu couldn¡¯t help but roll her eyes. "You sure know how to dream big. With all the mess around you, you still think I¡¯ll marry you? Keep dreaming."


    It was obviously impossible for now.


    Gu Qixiao felt a bit helpless. "So you still want to continue running away with the baby?"


    He tried to reach for Ji Yu¡¯s hand, but she dodged him.


    "That might not be entirely out of the question, but don¡¯t always think things will work out perfectly. I¡¯m the type of person who least likes to be overly optimistic."


    There was no need to dwell too much on these matters. Besides, anyone could understand the present situation¡ªfeelings cannot be forced, and you can¡¯t use a child to tie someone down.


    "I don¡¯t like using such methods to threaten people. I will never resort to such tactics, so rest assured."


    To Ji Yu, such tactics were insulting.


    "I understand what you¡¯re saying, but I really want to marry you."


    From the very beginning, he had been prepared for this. He wanted to marry Ji Yu, though the present situation seemed to be spinning out of his control.


    "I¡¯ll take good care of you and the baby. There won¡¯t be any issues. So, can you please not be angry with me?"


    He looked at Ji Yu cautiously. Ji Yu felt a little helpless. "You don¡¯t have to use this tone with me. We are equals. Your pursuit of me shouldn¡¯t make things feel so off."


    She understood these things clearly. For her, the current situation wasn¡¯t all that important.


    "I¡¯m not being overly harsh with you. There¡¯s no need for you to lower yourself too much¡ªit¡¯s unhealthy behavior."


    She stared at Gu Qixiao, hoping he could understand these matters.


    Gu Qixiao was silent for a moment, then eventually nodded. He truly cared about Ji Yu and her concerns.


    "I¡¯ll keep pursuing you and act the way you expect. As for Song Xuan¡¯s issues, I¡¯ll do my best to resolve them."


    He didn¡¯t want Song Xuan to continue interfering with their rtionship. The matter was tooplicated, better to directly send her away.


    "Doing things ording to your ns is better than anything else."


    This could be considered a temporary truce between them. Ji Yu hadn¡¯t forgotten the things she needed to do next, so she decided to let Gu Qixiao leave first.


    "You¡¯ll need some time to process this, too. Don¡¯t keep yourself so tense. Not everything has to follow certain rules."


    But Ji Yupletely underestimated Gu Qixiao¡¯s hopeless romantic side.


    After returning home, Gu Qixiao had already made up his mind to arrange a matchmaking meeting for Song Xuan.


    "Xiao, are you joking with me? How could people like them possibly be interested in me? Besides, my heart belongs to you, Xiao."


    She thought the situation was utterly absurd. It must¡¯ve been something Ji Yu said earlier, or how else could it havee to this?


    "Did Ji Yu say something to you? I knew it! Xiao, you must¡¯ve been bewitched by her. I¡¯m your lifesaver¡¯s younger sister¡ªare you really going to treat me this way?"


    They¡¯ve spent so much time together. Could it really all be less meaningful than Ji Yu?


    Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t respond. All she got was his cold profile, as though their rtionship had been nothing but distant from the beginning.


    "Xiao..."


    "Did you really think I could love you? When I found you back then, I made it clear¡ªI was repaying a favor, not seeking something romantic between us." Was repaying kindness only through marriage really appropriate?


    Clearly, this was wrong.


    He certainly wouldn¡¯t resort to such measures.


    Song Xuan was momentarily speechless, unsure where things had gone wrong. The "developing feelings over time" strategy she had envisioned wasn¡¯t working.


    "Xiao, it¡¯s not like that. We¡¯ve spent so much time together¡ªsurely you¡¯ve grown ustomed to having me around. Don¡¯t you feel anything for me?"


    "To be honest, all the time we¡¯ve spent together was me paying back a favor to your brother." Gu Qixiao sighed helplessly.

 Chapter 123 Repaying Kindness

    <h4>Chapter 123: Chapter 123 Repaying Kindness</h4>


    There are so many ways to repay a favor.


    Gu Qixiao certainly wouldn¡¯t throw his entire future into it.


    "To put it bluntly, everything that happened before was because of your brother."


    "But you¡¯ve already divorced your wife for me! Are you telling me you don¡¯t like me?" Song Xuan screeched, as if she had just heard a painfully absurd joke.


    "We were barely familiar before. My wife and I hadn¡¯t even met prior to our marriage, so such a thing, I can ept. But Ji Yu is different." His gaze carried a softness she had never seen before.


    Gu Qixiao, who had always been patient with everyone, in truth had the calmest demeanor. But when facing Ji Yu, his behavior was unmistakably different now.


    "Xiao, so all these years you¡¯ve never loved me at all. Then I might as well end my life!" She reached for a knife nearby, but Gu Qixiao swiftly wrested it away.


    "Why resort to such measures? Aren¡¯t you afraid it might actually cause harm?"


    This sort of act would undoubtedly lead to trouble.


    She stared at Gu Qixiao in shock, unable to process the cold indifference in his words.


    "You¡¯ve imed you didn¡¯t want to see a psychologist, but in truth, isn¡¯t it because your report was fake?"


    Gu Qixiao dismantled all of her previous lies, fully aware of how much those matters had meant to her.


    Yet such things couldn¡¯t escape Gu Qixiao¡¯s scrutiny. "Stop trying to use these tactics to threaten me. If you want to see your brother, you¡¯ll need to wait a while. Tomorrow, obediently join me in meeting your arranged marriage partner."


    He had already made his decision, one not subject to any change.


    Song Xuan stared nkly at Gu Qixiao¡¯s disappearing figure. She didn¡¯t even know when Gu Qixiao started to truly reveal his authentic self¡ªis it possible for someone to change so quickly?


    "Liars, you¡¯re all liars!"


    Gu Qixiao paid no attention to Song Xuan¡¯s words.


    The next morning, he directly brought Song Xuan to meet the prospective match.


    The other party didn¡¯t seem particrly satisfied with Song Xuan but didn¡¯t express any overt criticism either.


    "Everything previously discussed will stand. You all must take good care of her from now on."


    He was indeed considering Song Xuan, though his considerations were likely very different from what Song Xuan had envisioned.


    Song Xuan sat numbly in the chair, unable toprehend when or how Gu Qixiao had contacted these people, or what kind of benefits he had offered to afford such arrangements.


    "This matter still requires thought. After all, it concerns the future of our family, and some decisions must be made cautiously."


    "Of course. Today is merely a preliminary meeting¡ªyou¡¯ve met her, I¡¯ve met you; we¡¯ve at least established a baseline understanding." As he spoke, Gu Qixiao nced toward Song Xuan beside him.


    He was well aware that Song Xuan was unwilling, but in this case, there wasn¡¯t a chance for objection.


    When the family left, they kept ncing back at Song Xuan, deliberating whether the arrangement was truly worthwhile.


    Once only Song Xuan and Gu Qixiao remained, Song Xuan weakly ventured, "Xiao, are you really going to marry me off? Can I not marry?"


    She didn¡¯t want to marry anyone, yet the situation seemed to have reached a point beyond negotiation.


    "Can you promise never to do anything again that would make me angry?"


    The anger naturally stemmed from matters rted to Ji Yu.


    Song Xuan was at a loss; she could only stare nkly at him, her gaze tinged with mncholy.


    "Xiao, I promise I won¡¯t cause any trouble for Miss Ji again. Please don¡¯t casually marry me off like this, okay? Could I go to the banquet myself and meet someone I like there?"


    She knew Gu Qixiao wouldn¡¯t outright reject such a suggestion.


    Just as she thought, Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t refuse, even softening his stance somewhat.


    However, it was clear he would not allow Song Xuan to attend alone.


    Ji Yu stared at the extravagant gown she wore, baffled by the situation. "Are you nning to take me to a banquet?"


    Fine, but why was Song Xuaning too?


    "To help her find a suitable marriage match."


    Gu Qixiao¡¯s exnation was straightforward,pletely devoid of any intention to conceal the matter.


    Ji Yu raised an eyebrow, surprised by the situation. "Well, it seems your arrangements are finally in motion. But isn¡¯t my presence with you at such an event a bit inappropriate?"


    If she recalled correctly, Ji Yuanzhou was also expected to attend.


    Without hesitation, Ji Yu made her way toward Ji Yuanzhou before the event started.


    Seeing Ji Yu, Ji Yuanzhou appeared to be taken aback. "Yu, since when did you start showing interest in banquets like this?"


    "I was dragged along by certain people, and I felt out of ce, so I came to find you."


    She didn¡¯t bother concealing anything about the involvement of Gu Qixiao.


    Ji Yuanzhou chuckled, "Since you¡¯re here, at least I won¡¯t be left looking lonely by myself."


    Ji Yu¡¯s delicate features, enhanced by her morous attire, shone particrly brightly: those who caught sight of her couldn¡¯t help but fill their eyes with admiration.


    "And who¡¯s this youngdy?"


    "This is my sister." Ji Yuanzhou introduced Ji Yu with ease, his pride evident.


    Ji Yu shed a pleasant smile as she stood beside Ji Yuanzhou. "Hello, I¡¯m Ji Yu."


    Her natural beauty coupled with the radiance of her smile seemed to brighten the entire room.


    She was no stranger to attention like this.


    That said, she contemted whether she should swiftly conclude her business here.


    Meanwhile, Gu Qixiao¡¯s gaze had long been fixated on Ji Yu standing beside Ji Yuanzhou, unable to pull away.


    Ji Yu nearlyughed aloud, amused by his forlorn stare.


    "Did youe here today with Gu Qixiao?" Ji Yuanzhou asked, recalling his impressions of Gu Qixiao.


    Observing their seemingly casual interaction, Ji Yuanzhou couldn¡¯t help but feel a pang of jealousy, suspecting that Gu Qixiao had orchestrated things deliberately.


    Ji Yu smiled lightly, "Yes, he brought me here to help Song Xuan find a marriage match. But I didn¡¯t think it was appropriate to stick with them."


    After all, who attends events as a trio?


    Hearing Ji Yu¡¯s remarks, Ji Yuanzhou spoke with a sour tone, "It seems like Gu Qixiao is quite bold in his plotting."


    His discontent with Gu Qixiao clearly stemmed from thetter¡¯s ability to openly pursue Ji Yu, a privilege he himselfcked.


    This was something he found difficult to ept.


    "Though isn¡¯t he a bit overly attentive to Song Xuan?"


    He worried that Ji Yu might eventually be harmed.


    Ji Yu raised her brows, not entirely surprised. "After all, there¡¯s a history there; it¡¯s not surprising he¡¯d be so focused."


    The debt between them wouldn¡¯t be easily forgotten, she surmised.

 Chapter 124 Thoughts

    <h4>Chapter 124: Chapter 124 Thoughts</h4>


    But clearly, this time things didn¡¯t unfold quite as Gu Qixiao had expected.


    Song Xuan showed little interest in those around her, and they, in turn, found her dull and unengaging.


    Apart from the history she shared with Gu Qixiao, they couldn¡¯t discern any other relevant connections.


    "President Gu, who¡¯s this beside you?"


    "My sister." When he said this, Song Xuan¡¯s displeasure was evident, though she remembered what Gu Qixiao had told her earlier and could only grit her teeth and endure it.


    She forced a smile at the person in front of her.


    The other party was merely being polite, though. They knew better than anyone how many children the Gu family had.


    In such an environment, finding someone suitable was indeed challenging.


    Especially since Gu Qixiao wanted to go looking for Ji Yu, he didn¡¯t have much time to spare for this matter anyway.


    "So, couldn¡¯t find anyone?" Ji Yu had been watching from not far away.


    Seeing Gu Qixiao approach now, she couldn¡¯t help but grow curious.


    Gu Qixiao frowned, "Maybe there¡¯s no suitable candidate for now."


    Considering Song Xuan¡¯s status, it was indeed awkward to find a match.


    But Ji Yu had already anticipated such a scenario. When she first saw Song Xuan, she had understood it immediately.


    "If you can¡¯t find anyone suitable, maybe it¡¯s better to stop this for now. It doesn¡¯t benefit either of you."


    Such efforts were utterly unnecessary.


    Someone unwilling to leave, no matter what you tried, would always lead to the same result in the end.


    Ji Yu was familiar with such situations. "I don¡¯t mean anything else by it. It¡¯s just that the bond between the two of you is destined not to be so easily untangled."


    She smiled at the person before her. She hadn¡¯t uttered a single word of giving up, but Gu Qixiao saw displeasure in her eyes.


    For a moment, Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t know how to respond; this was indeed the way things had yed out, leaving no room for rebuttal.


    "I¡¯m sorry. I¡¯ll keep my word about what I said before¡ªI won¡¯t allow her to harm you anymore."


    "Let¡¯s hope so." But Ji Yu didn¡¯t particrly care about this anymore.


    The grievances she¡¯d endured from Song Xuan before would undoubtedly be returned in kind.


    She remained calm about such things. "You should still go check on her for now. Don¡¯t let something happenter; after all, her personality really makes her prone to causing trouble."


    Although Ji Yu didn¡¯t explicitly rify, the situation in front of them made it clear there wasn¡¯t much reason to continue.


    Gu Qixiao sighed. "I just want to talk to you properly. I don¡¯t have any other intentions. Why do you have to look at me like that?"


    He had been dealing with Song Xuan¡¯s issues all this time. Even if the matters weren¡¯tpletely resolved yet, at the very least, his standpoint was clear¡ªhe would never allow Ji Yu to suffer grievances again.


    "I¡¯m also earnestly telling you¡ªthings over there are on the verge of escting into a full-blown fight. Didn¡¯t you notice?"


    Ji Yu looked helplessly across from her, feeling incredibly resigned. "I¡¯m not being sarcastic. Just look over there, and you¡¯ll see how hard it is to manage Song Xuan¡¯s temper."


    Following her gaze, Gu Qixiao looked over and, sure enough, saw Song Xuan in conflict with another woman.


    At this rate, it could easily escte into a physical altercation.


    He quickly moved over to see what was going on.


    When Song Xuan saw him, she became even more animated. "Xiao, look! She spilled her drink all over me. It¡¯s outrageous!"


    Her tone carried a mix of indignation and the certainty that Gu Qixiao would back her up.


    The other woman, seeing Gu Qixiao, adopted a somewhat ingratiating tone. "President Gu, you can¡¯t me me for this. If you don¡¯t believe me, check the surveince footage¡ªshe bumped into me on purpose."


    She didn¡¯t particrly dislike Song Xuan, but the current situation was genuinely exasperating.


    Gu Qixiao sighed, "What on earth happened? Was it on purpose or not?" He turned to Song Xuan, searching her expression for clues.


    Song Xuan, who had been so confident moments ago, looked a little guilty. But remembering how dim the lighting was earlier, she thought it wouldn¡¯t be a problem. "She poured it on me deliberately! Look at my dress¡ªit¡¯s ruined!"


    As she spoke, she pointed out the stain on her gown to Gu Qixiao.


    Gu Qixiao frowned. "Since the two of you are tellingpletely different stories, let¡¯s just check the surveince footage. It must show everything clearly."


    He didn¡¯t want this farce to drag on any further, so he decided to take everyone to see what had actually happened.


    Ji Yu, apanied by Ji Yuanzhou, followed along to watch the drama unfold. In truth, she had witnessed the entire incident earlier¡ªSong Xuan had provoked the argument and intentionally collided with the woman.


    It was clear that Song Xuan had no idea how advanced the surveince systems were here.


    "She does seem mentally unstable," Ji Yuanzhou muttered with distaste, disliking such spectacles.


    But given that Song Xuan was someone close to Gu Qixiao, he wanted to get to the bottom of it.


    Ji Yu raised an eyebrow. "Maybe she¡¯s just trying to assert her presence."


    Such behavior was often a symptom of deep insecurity.


    Ji Yuanzhou was unwilling to let Ji Yu get dragged into such situations in the future. "If she stays around Gu Qixiao, you¡¯re bound to be upset."


    He couldn¡¯t bear to see his sister suffer because of this.


    Ji Yu smiled lightly. "Let¡¯s worry about things between uster. For now, let¡¯s just see whates of the surveince."


    Strangely enough, it seemed Song Xuan¡¯s luck wasn¡¯t all bad¡ªthe surveince cameras had actually malfunctioned this time.


    "President Gu, I must apologize. For some reason, the surveince system stopped working right before the party began. It was perfectly fine before."


    They had always been meticulous about safety, so this incident was certainly out of the ordinary.


    "What happened?"


    Gu Qixiao, deeply concerned, instinctively moved closer to Ji Yu as if to shield her.


    Ji Yu had no idea what he was thinking, but his actions stirred something subtle within her.


    "It¡¯s possible someone intentionally disabled the cameras, but rest assured that we¡¯re working hard to repair the system. There shouldn¡¯t be any further issues."


    The staff were visibly anxious. With such influential guests present, any trouble would be catastrophic for them.


    "When exactly did the system fail?"


    Ji Yu suddenly had an uneasy feeling.


    "Judging by the logs, it malfunctioned about fifteen minutes ago. Repairs are already underway, so there¡¯s no need to worry."


    Still, some guests were already contemting leaving.


    Yet the main doors wouldn¡¯t budge.


    "What¡¯s going on? Is there a problem with the doors now too? How are you people even managing things here?"


    It was clear that frustration was mounting over the series of mishaps.

 Chapter 125 Panic

    <h4>Chapter 125: Chapter 125 Panic</h4>


    But there was more fear of the unknown situation.


    Ji Yu had also noticed something was off. "Brother, there might be some troublemakers here. Be cautious."


    Though their motives were unclear, the fact that everyone was locked in the ballroom, with even the surveince cameras cut, made it evident this had been premeditated.


    It was unlikely they¡¯d let anyone off so easily.


    Ji Yu hesitated briefly, pulling out her phone to check the time, only to find that the signal had been cut off as well.


    "Could you please turn on the lights first? In this situation, everyone is already scared. Keeping the lighting dim is of no benefit to anyone. If the assants attempt something in this darkness, we wouldn¡¯t even be able to notice."


    She believed the matter needed to be approached rationally.


    The manager quickly went to turn on the lights.


    The crowd nced warily at the strangers around them, with unease spreading like wildfire.


    Ji Yu stood beside Ji Yuanzhou, while Gu Qixiao was being held onto by Song Xuan.


    "Xiao," Song Xuan¡¯s voice trembled, "what¡¯s going on here? I¡¯m so scared. Are they going to take us all hostage?"


    She hadn¡¯t imagined encountering such an incident at her first banquet. Her anxiety was palpable.


    Gu Qixiao sighed, also unable to make sense of the situation. "I don¡¯t know who¡¯s behind this act, but whoever set this up must have a reason. Why don¡¯t youe forward and state your demands? We can negotiate."


    There was a murmur among the crowd, but no one stepped up yet.


    Gu Qixiao led Song Xuan to Ji Yu¡¯s side. "You okay?"


    "What could possibly happen to me?" Ji Yu shrugged. "These people clearly have a target, but since things have escted to this point, it¡¯s definitely purposeful. I suspect we¡¯ll find out soon."


    It was only a matter of whether they¡¯d be able to seize the opportunity when the time came.


    Ji Yu was concerned, though more about whether they might be the assant¡¯s primary targets.


    Time ticked by slowly, as the manager tried countless methods but found no suitable way out.


    The crowd grew increasingly uneasy.


    The unsettling atmosphere weighed heavily, making the tension unbearable.


    "Whoever is after money, juste forward! There¡¯s no need to make things difficult for us. We have other matters to attend to¡ªwe don¡¯t have time for this!"


    Who would willingly deal with such a mess?


    Patience was running out.


    Frowning, Ji Yu surveyed the scene and suddenly noticed something. "Cai Xun doesn¡¯t seem like someone who¡¯d even be eligible to attend a banquet like this, does he?"


    There might¡¯ve been a reason before.


    But now Ji Yu was well aware of how far Cai Xun had fallen.


    Since that botched coboration, he¡¯d been out of the picture for quite some time. His presence here simply didn¡¯t add up.


    Gu Qixiao also spotted Cai Xun in the distance. The man wore an uneasy expression, as though his secret had been exposed.


    "Cai Xun, is this your doing?"


    Cai Xun froze as if struck by lightning. "What are you talking about? I don¡¯t know what you mean. I¡¯m trapped here too. How would I know what¡¯s happening outside?"


    He attempted to feign ignorance, but his demeanor seemed to confirm otherwise.


    "Oh really? Wasn¡¯t it more likely that your n was interrupted midway? If I¡¯m not mistaken, your original intention was to take everyone down at once. But the surveince cameras exposing your actions ruined it."


    Ji Yu couldn¡¯t figure out what exactly Cai Xun was thinking, but given the situation, there had to be more to it.


    There was a fleeting moment where Cai Xun¡¯s expression twisted, revealing his inner turmoil. Perhaps he had been confident in his n, but things taking such a drastic turn due to Song Xuan¡¯s presence left him seething with hatred.


    "If you¡¯ve figured it out, then you cane die with me!"


    He stormed toward Ji Yu, rage contorting his face as though intent on dragging her down with him. But with both Ji Yuanzhou and Gu Qixiao beside her, he stood no chance of seeding.


    "Cai Xun, you still have a chance to stop this."


    A knife had appeared in his hand at some point, clearly prepared beforehand.


    "Stop? My life is already ruined by you people! I could¡¯ve made a fortune this time, but you ruined my entire n!"


    Cai Xun had already made up his mind for a desperate act, yet the situation had pushed him to his breaking point.


    Ji Yu was exasperated by his reasoning and couldn¡¯t fathom why he thought such a clumsy scheme would work.


    "Do you think your puny de can kill anyone?"


    "I¡¯ll kill every single one of you!" He tore open his shirt, revealing a bomb strapped underneath.


    How had something so dangerous slipped through unnoticed?


    Ji Yu had a fleeting moment of doubt, but now wasn¡¯t the time for spection. The sudden turn of events sent the crowd reeling in terror.


    "What¡¯s going on? Is this man insane?"


    In truth, Cai Xun had long since lost his sanity, though it hadn¡¯t been outwardly obvious until now.


    Originally, he¡¯d wanted to confront things rationally, but the situation had spiraled beyond his control. He decided to escte matters further.


    "Ji Yu, if you people want to keep making my life miserable, then I¡¯ll make sure you go down with me! Let¡¯s see how arrogant you¡¯ll be after I take you all to the grave."


    Gu Qixiao shielded Ji Yu and spoke calmly, trying to reason with Cai Xun. "If it¡¯s money you want, just name your price. There¡¯s no need for this. Look at yourself¡ªthis isn¡¯t going to end well for anyone."


    He aimed to distract Cai Xun as much as possible.


    But Cai Xun simply let out a chillingugh. "Do you think I could escape even if I got the money? No, I don¡¯t want money¡ªI want your lives."


    "If you truly wanted to kill us, you wouldn¡¯t have waited until now. Are you really so eager to give up your life?" Ji Yu discerned that his actions reeked of desperation.


    "If you stop now and leave, there¡¯s still a way out. Staying here will do you no good, and you¡¯ll only make more enemies in the process."


    After all, practically everyone present here was influential.


    If they met again, taking Cai Xun down would be effortless.


    "If I stop now, do you think they¡¯d let me go?" Cai Xun sneered, ncing at the onlookers withplete disregard for their actions.


    He knew he had no retreat left and decided to throw caution to the wind.


    "I¡¯m already at a dead end. Why not take everyone down with me? You people, always so sanctimonious, always so good at crushing me."


    There was even a trace of grievance in his voice.

 Chapter 126 Anger

    <h4>Chapter 126: Chapter 126 Anger</h4>


    Ji Yu smiled faintly, "Don¡¯t you think such tricks arepletely useless against us? You¡¯re someone who fears death. Using tricks like these is really missing a bit of meaning."


    She had already studied matters like this a long time ago.


    Besides, the news here should already have reached Hong. It won¡¯t take long before the police arrive. Even if Cai Xun wants to do something, it¡¯s simply not possible.


    "If you want money, take it and leave. Why waste more time here?"


    She patiently tried to persuade Cai Xun, hoping he wouldn¡¯t stir up trouble.


    Cai Xun actually hesitated a bit, but the people around him began to grow arrogant, thinking Cai Xun surely wouldn¡¯t dare to act. "Turns out it¡¯s just a loser who wants money. All this is for you, and you don¡¯t have to pay it back. Let us go quickly, don¡¯t waste our time."


    They had already lost their patience with this matter long ago.


    The money was flung onto Cai Xun¡¯s face, scattering like snowkes.


    This turn of events was indeed somewhat unexpected.


    Even Ji Yu nced at the chubby boss with a surprised look in her eyes. "Even if he truly doesn¡¯t dare to act, using tactics like this to humiliate him will only provoke him."


    Sure enough, the current situation was already out of control emotionally, wasn¡¯t it?


    Faced with this scene, Cai Xun¡¯s eyes turned icy cold, and the knife was directly ced against the man¡¯s neck. "Do you really think I wouldn¡¯t dare to kill you?"


    Ji Yu calcted the time, estimating the police would arrive soon. She didn¡¯t need to worry too much about the matter with the chubby boss.


    As for the others, they had already started to grow anxious.


    Gu Qixiao looked at Ji Yu¡¯s calm demeanor and thought she was scared, so he deliberately moved closer to her side.


    Fortunately, there didn¡¯t seem to be any immediate problem with the situation.


    Ji Yu naturally noticed his action, but before she could manage a thank you, she felt someone shove her from behind.


    She hadn¡¯t been prepared, so the push caught her off guard, causing her to tumble onto the ground.


    She instinctively shielded her stomach, afraid of harming the child within.


    When Cai Xun saw this, he pulled Ji Yu up. "Looks like you¡¯re already itching to throw yourself into my trap."


    He smiled sinisterly, his expression as dark and venomous as a snake slithering onto Ji Yu¡¯s neck.


    Ji Yu frowned and looked behind her. Sure enough, it was Song Xuan.


    "I didn¡¯t mean it, Xiao! I was pushed identally just now." After all, the surveince cameras were broken, so there was no need to worry about anyone tattling.


    Gu Qixiao¡¯s expression turned ashen. Seeing Ji Yu being taken hostage left him unable to maintain his previous calm demeanor.


    "What exactly do you want to do?"


    "What do I want? I just want to leave here. Don¡¯t follow me. Otherwise, we¡¯ll all die together." Ji Yu would certainly die if she stayed near him.


    The others didn¡¯t dare get close. They could only watch as the two of them slowly inched toward the door.


    A thin line of blood had already been drawn on Ji Yu¡¯s neck, and the pain made her slightly furrow her brows. "By doing this, you won¡¯t be able to get away either."


    This kind of move waspletely unnecessary.


    But since the events had already unfolded, even if he wanted to change them, it was toote.


    "Ji Yu, what do you think you are? Today, I¡¯m taking you with me. Let¡¯s see if they dare to do anything to me!"


    Outside, the sound of police sirens rang out. Ji Yu knew the police had arrived.


    But the timing was a bit off.


    Especially when dealing with someone like him, Ji Yu found herself at a loss.


    "Did you call the police?"


    "Do you think I¡¯m capable of that? Just now, no one had any signal. If I could report to the police, I¡¯d be some kind of deity." She replied with an unwavering tone.


    Actually, the police being summoned was all Hong¡¯s doing¡ªit wasn¡¯t Ji Yu who called them.


    Cai Xun¡¯s hand trembled slightly. At the sight of the police, it was clear he was even more cowardly.


    "Your actions will only ensure we all die. You won¡¯t survive either. What¡¯s the point?"


    "Shut up!" He dragged Ji Yu into the car,pletely ignoring the police¡¯s warnings.


    "Release the hostage, and you¡¯ll still have a chance to live. We just want to have a proper conversation with you."


    They had been prepared to handle someone like him long ago. As they saw Cai Xun¡¯s behavior, they couldn¡¯t hold back from taking action.


    Cai Xun sneered coldly. "Don¡¯t even think about deceiving me. Today, either I leave here, or Ji Yu dies along with me. You choose."


    He had no intention of reconciling with them, knowing full well how important Ji Yu was to them.


    By now, not even Gu Qixiao or Ji Yuanzhou dared to act rashly, which meant he¡¯d pretty much won.


    The police found themselves helpless in this scenario¡ªafter all, the safety of the hostage was paramount.


    "Don¡¯t be impulsive. We can let you leave, but the hostage has to stay behind."


    As they spoke, they cleared a path, seeming to signal that they were ready to let him leave quickly.


    Being restrained to the side didn¡¯t faze Ji Yu much; she already had a tracking device on her. There was no way they would lose her now.


    She watched as the scenery around her shifted, apanied by Cai Xun¡¯s arrogantughter.


    "Ji Yu, look at how pathetic you are now. Weren¡¯t you all trying to ruin me? Well, you seeded, and now I¡¯m going to destroy you."


    His eyes teemed with malice, gazing at Ji Yu as if looking at his sworn enemy.


    "I didn¡¯t do anything to you. If your project failed, it¡¯s your own fault. How could you possibly me others for it?"


    His project being canceled had been his own issue, yet now he was putting the me on others.


    "You definitely said something to Gu Qixiao, or else why would things suddenly turn out like this?"


    Ji Yu felt exasperated. "Gu Qixiao wanted to switch to a different partner, but he¡¯s not an idiot. The things you¡¯ve done haven¡¯t gone unnoticed."


    Obvious ws in the funding chain shouldn¡¯t need anyone to point them out, should they?


    It was merely hisck of understanding of these matters that caused such illusions.


    Not wanting to argue over his issues, Ji Yu leaned to the side, pretending to rest, quietly waiting for Cai Xun to fatigue.


    Cai Xun didn¡¯t dare let his guard down. After bringing Ji Yu to an abandoned warehouse in the eastern part of the city, he finally rested in the car.


    Meanwhile, Hong went to rendezvous with Ji Yuanzhou.


    "I have Yu¡¯s location. She¡¯s currently in an abandoned warehouse in the east part of the city and hasn¡¯t moved for ten minutes."


    As he spoke, he shared the tracking data to both of their phones.


    Soon, a small red dot appeared on their map.


    "The more people searching, the higher the chances of finding her. Let¡¯s hope Yu is alright."


    Ji Yuanzhou didn¡¯t know who Hong was, but since Ji Yu trusted him enough to provide the tracking data, he must be reliable. Without hesitation, Ji Yuanzhou led his team to find her.


    Although Gu Qixiao had plenty of questions he wanted answers to, he at least understood the urgency of the situation. Without further dy, he hurried to track Ji Yu down.

 Chapter 127: Arrogant

    <h4>Chapter 127: Chapter 127: Arrogant</h4>


    Ji Yu was quiteid-back about this matter, knowing that Hong had likely arranged everything already, so she felt at ease.


    However, Cai Xun, perhaps sensing something, asionally nced at Ji Yu when faced with the situation.


    Only when he confirmed Ji Yu was fine would he rx and go back to sleep.


    After this repeated a few times, Ji Yu found it amusing.


    "You don¡¯t even have the guts for this, so why do you keep doing things like this?"


    It just ended up revealing to everyone how timid he was, which waspletely unnecessary.


    Especially in times like this, Ji Yu couldn¡¯t quite understand what kind of personality would lead someone to make such a decision.


    He let out a cold snort, "Ji Yu, someone like you will never understand my struggles. You have everything, but I have nothing. I have to fight for it myself."


    Countless times, he wanted to let go of these matters, but during those times, it seemed like no one ever intended to let go of him.


    "Do you even believe the words you¡¯re saying? Didn¡¯t Qinqin treat you well before? You¡¯re the one who created this mess, causing your rtionship to fall apart."


    He had caused his own trouble but acted as if others were to me.


    Ji Yu couldn¡¯t fully grasp these things.


    And yet, he couldn¡¯t understand Ji Yu¡¯s words either, just like his current behavior reflected.


    Several times, he wanted to refute Ji Yu, but he didn¡¯t know what words to use.


    "If I¡¯m not mistaken, your so-called explosives are fake, right? Considering how far you¡¯ve fallen, it¡¯s impossible for you to have such things."


    Cai Xun casually tossed the items tied to him aside. "Even if you know now, it doesn¡¯t matter. Look at the state you¡¯re in¡ªhow could anyonee to save you?"


    "Is that so?"


    She didn¡¯t say another word, but it left Cai Xun uneasy, sensing something off about the situation in front of him.


    As for what woulde next, Ji Yu wanted to see how he would behave in the end.


    It turned out Hong and the others were incredibly efficient.


    Once they confirmed Ji Yu¡¯s safety, the police took just two shots to disable Cai Xun¡¯s arm.


    The crowd rushed forward. Watching the scene unfold, Ji Yu felt an internal calm.


    "I told you from the beginning that a tactic like this would never seed."


    The final oue was exactly as she¡¯d predicted.


    She stood coldly not far away, with someoneing over to check on her, while Cai Xun was handcuffed with cold steel.


    He became utterly hysterical. "Ji Yu, you¡¯ll never have a happy ending! You¡¯ll face retribution!"


    "Yu, you don¡¯t need to listen to this kind of talk," Gu Qixiao said, entirely unaffected by the curse.


    Everyone with eyes knew what had happened before. How could they possibly let Ji Yu carry the me?


    "I¡¯m not bothered by such curses. At this point, he¡¯s only doing this to grab some attention. Frankly, these clumsy tricks arepletely unnecessary to me."


    She was more concerned about the baby. She¡¯d already felt some difort in her stomach earlier and needed to go to the hospital to find out what was going on.


    "I¡¯m going to the hospital to get my wounds dressed. None of you need toe with me."


    At this moment, she didn¡¯t need anyone.


    But Ji Yuanzhou was insistent, "Yu, you might not want others there, but I have to go with you. I¡¯m your brother; there¡¯s no way I won¡¯t take care of you."


    He¡¯d said before that no matter what decision Ji Yu made, he would support her.


    Now, seeing the circumstances, he guessed that Ji Yu¡¯s stomach was bothering her, so he offered to apany her.


    To be honest, Ji Yu felt a mix of emotions, unsure what to do to resolve the immediate trouble in front of her.


    "In that case, why not have everyone go together?"


    "Do as you please." She was really only worried about the baby. As for their thoughts, they had nothing to do with her.


    The results came out quickly. The doctor looked at the two men in front of her, puzzled. "Which one of you is the child¡¯s father?"


    "I am." Gu Qixiao imed the role without hesitation.


    He listened intently to the instructions on the side.


    "Your wife needs to rest properly for a period of time due to her condition. She shouldn¡¯t do any strenuous activities. It¡¯s fortunate that her body is rtively strong; otherwise, it wouldn¡¯t have been possible to save the child."


    As the doctor mentioned this, she looked at him with some reproach. "How are you taking care of a pregnant wife? You need to be more attentive with pregnant women."


    Gu Qixiao epted the admonition openly, while Ji Yuanzhou clenched his brows in frustration.


    However, as the two of them left, Ji Yuanzhou brought it up. "Yu¡¯s child has nothing to do with you. I hope you mind your words and don¡¯t ruin Yu¡¯s reputation."


    He couldn¡¯t stand Gu Qixiao no matter what.


    Speaking of the past, Gu Qixiao had always been with Song Xuan. That alone made Ji Yuanzhou think Gu Qixiao was unworthy of such affection as this.


    Gu Qixiao frowned. "Whether or not the child is mine has nothing to do with you. And I hope youe to terms with your position¡ªbrother will always just be brother."


    This spot was his alone to upy. Furthermore, Ji Yuanzhou¡¯s actions were obvious¡ªhis feelings couldn¡¯t be hidden. Gu Qixiao had to remain vignt.


    "Whether or not I¡¯m the brother doesn¡¯t matter. What matters is that you¡¯ll never be the father of that child."


    Even though Gu Qixiao wanted to tell him the truth, seeing Ji Yu¡¯s feelings toward the child, he ultimately chose to stay quiet for now.


    If something really happened to Ji Yu because of this, it would not be good.


    Ji Yu had no idea about the scheming going on between the two men. At the moment, her focus was still on the baby.


    When she saw the two of them return, she couldn¡¯t help but feel resigned. "Are you two nning to stay at the hospital indefinitely? I¡¯m fine. You can head back now."


    She felt she could manage just fine on her own.


    Gu Qixiao ignored Ji Yu¡¯s words and sat down directly on a chair nearby. "Since you¡¯re not feeling well, just take a good rest and stop worrying about unnecessary things."


    He would always stay by Ji Yu¡¯s side, ensuring she wouldn¡¯t suffer any more grievances.


    Ji Yu frowned, unable to make sense of the situation before her. "What are you doing?"


    She suspected Gu Qixiao was projecting himself onto another role. "I haven¡¯t even decided to be with you. You don¡¯t need to look after me. I can hire a caregiver. Don¡¯t you have work to do?"


    This incident had made Ji Yu realize that even the best rtionships could turn into an entangled mess. Perhaps staying single was better.


    "Since I¡¯ve decided to pursue you, I must do my best. Even if you want to drive me away, I won¡¯t leave."

 Chapter 128 Pursuer

    <h4>Chapter 128: Chapter 128 Pursuer</h4>


    Ji Yu felt a headacheing on, dealing with such matters.


    She couldn¡¯t figure out why Gu Qixiao was suddenly being so stubborn.


    "Why do you have to be like this?"


    But Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t answer her question, stubbornly sitting there instead.


    Even if Ji Yu wanted to outright throw him out, she had no way of doing so.


    The situation before her was genuinely frustrating.


    "Since you¡¯re willing to stay here, then just stay. But surely you still have other things to deal with?"


    She couldn¡¯t possibly expect him to stay here and neglect hispany; that waspletely unrealistic.


    Of course, this situation did indeed trouble Ji Yu quite a bit.


    However, Ji Yu hadn¡¯t expected that Gu Qixiao wouldn¡¯t even consider leaving for the entire night, staying in her hospital room the whole time.


    By the next morning, he even showed up with dark circles under his eyes, bringing her breakfast.


    Ji Yu truly didn¡¯t know what to say to him.


    "Gu Qixiao, you¡¯re a good person, but there are likely many issues between us. So, you should go back. Stop dwelling on these things."


    Some matters needed to be resolved properly.


    But Gu Qixiao remained unmoved, "So this is you trying to give me the ¡¯good person card¡¯? If I¡¯m a ¡¯good person¡¯ in your heart, then I certainly need to keep fighting for this."


    Letting this go would undoubtedly lead to regret.


    In his heart, this matter couldn¡¯t just pass by like that.


    Ji Yu feltpletely overwhelmed. She couldn¡¯t figure out where exactly his persistence came from. "I just think this isn¡¯t fair to you. Look at my situation; you should be able to understand."


    Everything she had shown him before was meant to encourage him to leave as soon as possible, but she didn¡¯t know why it seemed to have backfired, especially seeing how he grew increasingly stubborn.


    "I enjoy doing this. It has nothing to do with you."


    He could brush off Ji Yu¡¯s rejection, but he couldn¡¯t ignore her thoughts.


    "You don¡¯t need to feel any pressure either. My feelings for you are my own issue; you don¡¯t need to bear any burden."


    If burden were involved, it would stray from his original intentions; a rtionship like theirs didn¡¯t require that.


    She had initially wanted to continue persuading him, but to her surprise, Song Xuan suddenly arrived.


    Seeing Ji Yu lying on the hospital bed, Song Xuan looked visibly disdainful. "I heard Miss Ji is sick. I specially came to check on you. Curious what sort of illness could warrant a hospital stay?"


    She was convinced Ji Yu had feigned illness to draw Gu Qixiao¡¯s attention.


    But Ji Yu had long since grown tired of Song Xuan¡¯s attitude. "Is my hospital stay costing you money? If it¡¯s not your money, then why are you so anxious about it?"


    The matter was undeniably exasperating.


    Song Xuan pursed her lips. "I just want to know how serious Miss Ji¡¯s condition is to make Xiao spend the entire night here taking care of you without rest."


    Looking at Gu Qixiao¡¯s dark circles, she felt distressed about it; she had wanted toment on this earlier.


    Ji Yu scoffed coldly, "What are you implying? That I made Gu Qixiao stay here?"


    She had said so much to Gu Qixiao, yet he acted as if he hadn¡¯t heard a single word. How she was supposed to resolve this was entirely unclear.


    Gu Qixiao naturally understood Song Xuan¡¯s personality. "Song Xuan, no one forced you toe visit. What are you trying to aplish with that sarcastic tone?"


    That passive-aggressive tone was clearly meant to provoke Ji Yu, to force her to show her true colors. But everything unfolding before her told Song Xuan that she absolutely couldn¡¯t say such things.


    Otherwise, who knew if Gu Qixiao might suddenly arrange a marriage on the spot?


    "Xiao, I¡¯m just worried about you. Look at how worn out you look¡ªhow could I not be concerned?"


    She wanted to present herself in a caring light.


    Yet Gu Qixiao was utterly indifferent to her so-called concern.


    Perhaps when the feelings are not mutual, even well-meaning concern carries ulterior motives.


    Song Xuan felt hurt but wasn¡¯t sure what else she could say.


    "If you really could take Gu Qixiao away, I might even thank you. As for why I¡¯m hospitalized, it has nothing to do with you."


    Ji Yu¡¯s expression was icy, clearly not wanting to continue the conversation.


    Gu Qixiao felt as though something had stabbed his heart.


    His gaze toward Ji Yu carried a hint of unwillingness. "Yu, I¡¯m not asking for anything from you, nor am I requesting immediate eptance. All I want is for you to let me stay here."


    Song Xuan couldn¡¯t believe her ears; such a self-deprecating statement had actuallye out of Gu Qixiao¡¯s mouth.


    "Xiao, this woman has treated you like this, yet you still want to stay? She might even be mocking you in her heart¡ªdon¡¯t you consider leaving?"


    She wanted to seize this opportunity to quickly get Gu Qixiao to leave, but she wasn¡¯t sure where things had gone wrong.


    His unwavering focus on Ji Yu¡¯s affairs left her puzzled about what she should say.


    "You should go back. There¡¯s no need for you to intervene here." The way he treated Song Xuan couldn¡¯t have been more different from how he treated Ji Yu.


    For a moment, Song Xuan felt a sharp imbnce in her heart. "Xiao, if Uncle Gu finds out you¡¯re doing all this for a woman, he¡¯s definitely going to say something to you."


    With those words, she hurriedly ran out. She had already expected this oue; she refused to believe the Gu family would allow Gu Qixiao to continue lowering himself like this.


    Gu Qixiao thought about what Song Xuan had just said, his brows furrowing in concern about the situation at home.


    "Since you already know there¡¯s no result, why not cut your losses early?" Ji Yu actually felt a flutter for Gu Qixiao.


    But she was fully aware that being together with him would undoubtedly bring trouble.


    And the thing she disliked most was trouble. Why test their rtionship through such matters when it would only prove it to be a mistake?


    "Leaving things at a beautiful moment isn¡¯t necessarily a bad thing. Just like now: our current dynamic is pleasant; there¡¯s no need to escte things further."


    She disliked things like this.


    Yet Gu Qixiao¡¯s stubbornness was unexpected. "It may be a skill to preserve a moment forever, but it¡¯s one I don¡¯t possess."


    From beginning to end, the only person he ever wanted was Ji Yu.


    Could such a rtionship even require further exnation?


    "You..." Ji Yu felt utterly helpless about this.


    People¡¯s minds didn¡¯t operate on the same wavelength. Her rationality seemed utterly impossible for Gu Qixiao.


    "Handle it however you want. Just don¡¯t regret itter."


    For the next few days of her hospitalization, Ji Yu decided to simply treat Gu Qixiao like he didn¡¯t exist, showing no intention of paying attention to him.


    Gu Qixiao quietly and diligently helped out from the sidelines, as if he had already be familiar with these kinds of responsibilities.

 Chapter 129 Awkward

    <h4>Chapter 129: Chapter 129 Awkward</h4>


    Faced with this kind of situation, Ji Yu naturally wanted to handle it as quickly as possible.


    But things turned out to bepletely different from what she expected.


    Even her perpetually cold demeanor failed to dampen Gu Qixiao¡¯s enthusiasm.


    "I¡¯ll be discharged tomorrow. If you like staying here, then just stay here."


    In short, it didn¡¯t have much to do with her.


    Just the thought of continuing to deal with such a situation gave Ji Yu a headache.


    However, Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t argue with her. Instead, when Ji Yu was discharged, he showed up with flowers.


    "Yu doesn¡¯t want to see you." Ji Yuanzhou could easily grasp Ji Yu¡¯s feelings and naturally stood on her side.


    Besides, he had never liked Gu Qixiao to begin with, so he obviously hoped Gu Qixiao would back off quickly.


    Gu Qixiao chuckled, lookingpletely unconcerned as he said, "I¡¯m here to see the child."


    He nced over at Ji Yu, his eyes holding a certain tender warmth.


    Ji Yu understood. Once he learned of the child¡¯s identity, it was impossible for him to remain uninvolved. But this situation was far from what she wanted to see.


    "This child won¡¯t be under your care in the future, nor do you need toe see him."


    She had already made her decision about the child long ago.


    Ji Yuanzhou was momentarily stunned. By the time he heard that, he realized something was amiss.


    "Yu, this child..."


    He hesitated, unsure whether or not he should rify.


    He never imagined there could be any connection between the child and Gu Qixiao.


    "Brother, I don¡¯t want to hide this from you. This child is indeed Gu Qixiao¡¯s."


    The truth woulde out sooner orter, so why not say it now?


    Besides, hadn¡¯t her behavior these past days already made it fairly obvious? It¡¯s just that Ji Yuanzhou hadn¡¯t wanted to acknowledge it.


    Ji Yuanzhou¡¯s feelings grew increasinglyplicated, unsure of how to process it all.


    "Yu, do you like him?"


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t answer the question. Instead, she got into the car. "Brother, let¡¯s go home."


    She didn¡¯t want to keep entangling herself with Gu Qixiao.


    Besides, with everything still unresolved, it wouldn¡¯t help to say anything to Gu Qixiao now.


    Gu Qixiao silently watched Ji Yu get into the car, his thoughts racing. Did Ji Yu really have no feelings for him at all?


    After that day, whether Ji Yu was avoiding him or genuinely busy, Gu Qixiao couldn¡¯t even catch a glimpse of her in Chongxin.


    "President Gu, please don¡¯t make things harder for us. Our Sister Yu doesn¡¯t want to see you. Even if she came, we wouldn¡¯t dare tell you that she¡¯s here."


    The young nurse at the entrance was helpless; she had no idea what was going on between the two of them.


    One didn¡¯t want to meet but was clearly in a bad mood, while the other wanted to meet and just camped out there waiting. Even if they had a miraculous solution, it wasn¡¯t their ce to force an encounter between the two.


    This kind of situation put people in a difficult spot.


    "So, you¡¯re saying Ji Yu is here but doesn¡¯t want to see me?"


    Gu Qixiao quickly grasped the meaning of her words, though he couldn¡¯t figure out why Ji Yu was throwing a tantrum after this incident.


    Could there be an irreconcble issue between them?


    "Hey, that¡¯s not what I said¡ªyou figured that out on your own."


    Gu Qixiao said nothing more and directly entered Chongxin to find Ji Yu.


    However, Ji Yu wasn¡¯t in her office.


    "Has Doctor Ji been preupied with anythingtely? She looks like she¡¯s in low spirits no matter what she¡¯s doing."


    Li Shishi, who had been recovering gradually, had grown increasingly fond of Ji Yu. Noticing Ji Yu¡¯s unsettled demeanor, she casually asked.


    "It¡¯s nothing major. It just takes time topletely move on from things that need to be severed."


    Li Shishi instantly grew intrigued. "So even a beauty like Doctor Ji has love troubles?"


    Clearly, she had some misconceptions about Ji Yu.


    But Ji Yu was already ustomed to such remarks and wasn¡¯t surprised. "Anyone can have rtionship issues. It has nothing to do with looks."


    Li Shishi sighed. "Honestly, with a face like yours, having rtionship problems just means those people have no taste. Once I feel better, why don¡¯t I take you out for a change of scene? I guarantee it¡¯ll open some eyes."


    As she reminisced about the past, she couldn¡¯t help but feel nostalgic.


    Seeing her lively demeanor, it seemed she hardly thought about her previous ordeals. "All you focus on is having fun¡ªdon¡¯t you ever think about your future career?"


    "Oh, no matter how much I think about it, it¡¯s all the same. Honestly, the industry today is full of blind investors. With my level of acting skills, I¡¯m still stuck ying side roles. Might as well just go on variety shows and make a living."


    Ji Yu suddenly felt a bit envious of her carefree attitude. "You¡¯re quite free-spirited."


    Still, she couldn¡¯t fully sort through her own feelings. Did she truly feel nothing for Gu Qixiao? That was impossible; it was just that fate didn¡¯t seem to be on their side.


    "With your looks, you¡¯d surely be sought after in the entertainment industry. Have you never considered it?"


    "I only love my profession." She had no interest in those things.


    Li Shishi looked regretful.


    "You just don¡¯t get it. Sometimes, a career isn¡¯t just about passion¡ªit¡¯s also about making money."


    To this, Ji Yu offered no response.


    "Ji Yu."


    Startled, she thought she heard someone call her name. She turned around to find Gu Qixiao standing at the doorway, his face dark.


    "What are you doing here?" Her surprise onlysted a moment before she quickly realized what had happened.


    Since he was already there, there was no point in trying to chase him out. Calmly, she asked, "What do you want?"


    Gu Qixiao rubbed his temples. "Yu, can we stop this nonsense?"


    He had imagined seeing Ji Yu countless times before, thinking he¡¯d teach her a lesson. Yet, now that they were face-to-face, all those thoughts seemed irrelevant.


    "Nonsense? Me?" Ji Yu couldn¡¯t understand his way of thinking.


    "I¡¯ve made it clear¡ªthere¡¯s no need to drag things on between us. Why make it awkward for both of us?"


    Her tone remained steady as she adjusted the medicine, ignoring Li Shishi¡¯s curious gaze.


    Evidently, Li Shishi recognized Gu Qixiao and was surprised by how gentle he was now.


    "I don¡¯t understand why this whole incident backfired on me. I never intended any harm toe your way."


    That day, he had done everything he could to protect her. But why did Ji Yu want to sever ties with him afterward?


    Ji Yu took a deep breath. "President Gu, if you can¡¯t handle your own affairs, it¡¯s better not to involve others. You think you¡¯re doing well, but in others¡¯ eyes, it¡¯s no different from murder."


    Hadn¡¯t he seen what Song Xuan had done?


    Of course, he had. So why hadn¡¯t there been consequences?


    It all boiled down to Song Xuan carrying the title of "lifesaving sister."

 Chapter 130: People Around

    <h4>Chapter 130: Chapter 130: People Around</h4>


    "I am already making arrangements for Song Xuan as quickly as possible. You can be angry, but I don¡¯t want you to keep getting tangled up over Song Xuan."


    This matter was indeed difficult for him to handle.


    Recently, he had been considering marrying off Song Xuan as soon as possible, but the current situation had caught him off guard.


    "If you can¡¯t handle it well, then don¡¯t talk about it now. Wait until you¡¯ve resolved everything around you beforeing to find me. Isn¡¯t that better?"


    Ji Yu had already thought through this and spoke with a clear logic.


    "Otherwise, if I were to confront Song Xuan directly, it would make things awkward between us¡ªsomething neither of us wants."


    Her tolerance for others had its limits. She still hadn¡¯t forgotten what happened with Song Xuan in the past.


    "Just because I don¡¯t say something doesn¡¯t mean I won¡¯t act. President Gu, you should understand by now where the real problem lies between us, right?"


    These matters needed to be rified.


    For a moment, Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t even know how to refute her.


    "Alright, I get your point." He also understood that the issue with Song Xuan had always been a lingering threat. Since Ji Yu cared so much about it, he had to address it first.


    Watching Gu Qixiao leave like that, Ji Yu finally let out a sigh of relief.


    However, Li Shishi, standing nearby, was clearly curious about their rtionship. "I couldn¡¯t tell, but you seem to have some sort of rtionship with Gu Qixiao."


    "You know him?"


    "How could I not? For people like him, wealthy and influential, we all inevitably cross paths with a few of them. Lucky you, littledy." Li Shishi¡¯s enthusiasm for gossip was apparent.


    But she also reflected on Ji Yu¡¯s earlier statement about drawing a firm line. "To be honest, I don¡¯t think you necessarily need to sever your ties with himpletely."


    Such a good opportunity was worth holding onto.


    "It¡¯s obvious that there are feelings between you two. Just now, you didn¡¯t seem that resolute either. So why torment yourself? Some things are not necessarily deal-breakers."


    To others, their issues probably didn¡¯t seem like a big deal.


    But as these problems umted, they would eventually snowball into something unsolvable.


    That¡¯s why Ji Yu would rather walk away now.


    "Let¡¯s talk about itter."


    After changing her dressing, Ji Yu didn¡¯t feel like saying much and returned to her office to deal with hospital matters.


    Meanwhile, Gu Qixiao couldn¡¯t stop thinking about Ji Yu¡¯s words for a long time.


    "Assistant Li, what do you think my rtionship with Song Xuan is?"


    Assistant Li hesitated for a moment before finally giving a rtively objective assessment. "To outsiders, the rtionship between you and Miss Song appears ambiguous. Given how close you seem despite not being romantically involved, people are bound to suspect something."


    Even he once thought Song Xuan might be the future Mrs. Gu.


    But judging by Gu Qixiao¡¯s behavior, it didn¡¯t seem like he liked Song Xuan after all.


    It was just that their rtionship was simply tooplicated.


    "With Doctor Ji¡¯s character, I don¡¯t think it¡¯s possible for her to deepen her rtionship with you under these circumstances."


    Ji Yu¡¯s thoughts were already crystal clear, and her gaze made it evident that her feelings weren¡¯t one of indifference.


    So the crux of the issuey with Song Xuan.


    "And honestly, the previous incident was over the line. But you couldn¡¯t do much about Miss Song at the time, so it had to get shelved temporarily. One can only imagine how upset Doctor Ji must have felt."


    He was already being tactful, hoping that Gu Qixiao could understand.


    Gu Qixiao furrowed his brows, unsure how to properly assess the situation.


    "So, ording to you, my best option is to marry off Song Xuan first?"


    "Not necessarily marry her off, but at least don¡¯t allow her to linger around you any longer. That might improve things." Assistant Li never thought he¡¯d find himself advising others on rtionships.


    "Alright, go back." Gu Qixiao had made up his mind and wouldn¡¯t let matters continue unchecked.


    Song Xuan had been waiting at home and, upon seeing Gu Qixiao, hurried forward to greet him. "Xiao, you¡¯ve finallye around! I told you there¡¯s no need to be so obsessed with that woman. She doesn¡¯t even want to see you, so why bother humiliating yourself?"


    She had long known Ji Yu¡¯s strong personality wouldn¡¯t let things proceed further, so this situation was perfect for her.


    Looking at Song Xuan¡¯s joyful expression, Gu Qixiao realized once again that she had never truly let go of her feelings for him. She had just been hiding it well, so he hadn¡¯t noticed.


    "Tomorrow, get ready to start school. Even if you don¡¯t want to get married, you should at least acquire some skills. I¡¯ll arrange for your education and amodations so you won¡¯t have to idle away at home anymore."


    He had been considering this for a while, and now it was time to put it into action.


    Song Xuan¡¯s expression stiffened, as if she had heard something unbelievable.


    "Xiao, what did you say you want me to do?"


    Her eyes reddened, on the brink of tears. Under normal circumstances, Gu Qixiao would have given in helplessly.


    But this time, Gu Qixiao was unusually firm. "Song Xuan, I¡¯m doing this for your own good. In your current state, staying at home isn¡¯t suitable, nor is getting married."


    At the very least, it wouldn¡¯t be right for anyone to take Song Xuan back in such a muddled state.


    Song Xuan couldn¡¯t hold back anymore. "Xiao, are you trying to abandon me? I¡¯ve been so obedienttely; why do you still want to send me away?"


    She had restrained her feelings for Gu Qixiao as much as possible, so why was she being cast aside?


    Gu Qixiao sighed softly. "You think your feelings aren¡¯t obvious, but the way you talk about Yu gives you away. Song Xuan, I don¡¯t want you to go down an irredeemable path."


    It was better to send her somewhere new before things escted any further.


    "Focus on your studies. There¡¯s nothing wrong with that, and you don¡¯t need to worry about tuition. Everything will be the best for you."


    "But Xiao, I just want to stay by your side. Isn¡¯t this Ji Yu¡¯s idea? Is she the one who told you to send me away?" Although she framed it as a question, she had already ced the me on Ji Yu in her heart.


    Faced with her reaction, Gu Qixiao felt a twinge of helplessness. "You don¡¯t need to me everything on Yu. To me, you are like my sister. That¡¯s why I¡¯m doing this for your own good."


    He wouldn¡¯t stubbornly keep Song Xuan by his side¡ªit wouldn¡¯t be fair to anyone involved.


    The current situation was, in every way, for the best.


    "Stop overthinking things. Take good care of yourself. I probably won¡¯t be visiting you for a while."

 Chapter 131 Study

    <h4>Chapter 131: Chapter 131 Study</h4>


    Once he made a decision, he never went back on his word.


    Song Xuan watched him leave with her eyes wide open, her heart somewhat copsing, unsure of what methods she could use to salvage everything in front of her.


    "Why are you treating me this way? I didn¡¯t do anything wrong, so why are you sending me away?"


    No matter how unwilling Song Xuan was, the next day she was sent to a boarding school. She looked at everything around her with bewilderment, as if she had never experienced this world before.


    "Miss Song, everything has been arranged. I hope you can live well here. ording to President Gu, there¡¯s no need for you to return home except during holidays."


    This was, in a sense, informing Song Xuan that her life would henceforth be separate from Gu Qixiao¡¯s.


    Their rtionship would be severed at this moment.


    She looked numbly at the person in front of her, "Why? Assistant Li, haven¡¯t I been behaving well recently? Why does Xiao have to treat me like this?"


    This kind of thing was a bolt from the blue for her.


    Assistant Li didn¡¯t know how to answer the question; maybe it was the basic protection for Ji Yu.


    On the other hand, after sending Song Xuan away, Gu Qixiao immediately found Ji Yu, "I¡¯ve already sent Song Xuan to the boarding school. She¡¯ll have some learning opportunities and I won¡¯t manage her work anymore. I will just send her money regrly each month."


    These things he had long since been ustomed to.


    Ji Yu was a little surprised, "You¡¯ve decided to send her to school so soon?"


    She always thought the two shared deep feelings.


    Gu Qixiao knew Ji Yu might have some misunderstandings about these matters.


    "We can have a proper talk about the previous things. Actually, for me, Song Xuan has always been a responsibility, not a target for emotional investment."


    He made clear distinctions between gratitude and emotions.


    How could anyone use their future happiness as a way to repay a kindness?


    This time Ji Yu did not refuse.


    She was curious about what past matters he wanted to talk about.


    The two sat in a caf¨¦, watching the peopleing and going outside. Ji Yu couldn¡¯t help but be a little emotional, "To be honest, I never wanted you to send anyone away, nor did I want to separate the two of you."


    She initially chose to back out because she didn¡¯t want to be the viin.


    But the current situation seemed somewhat different from what Ji Yu had imagined.


    "There¡¯s no separation to speak of between us. Even if any feelings exist between her and me, it could only be sibling-like. At that time, when her brother saved me, I promised to protect his sister."


    Now he had also fulfilled this promise.


    But Song Xuan¡¯s ambition gradually became inted.


    How could he not be repulsed?


    "I never intended to marry Song Xuan. Even though after I got married, Song Xuan pestered me to the point where I couldn¡¯t meet with my ex-wife, I only wanted to just deal with the matter."


    He didn¡¯t feel indebted to anyone but indeed felt a bit guilty towards his previous wife.


    At least not having met once in three years was already indefensible.


    When Ji Yu heard him mentioning matters about his ex-wife, she couldn¡¯t help but slightly press her lips. She didn¡¯t know when he would discover their rtionship.


    One could only say these matters were exceptionallyplex and particrly surprising; some people seem to be able to find each other even when separated.


    "What do you think about this ex-wife of yours?"


    Gu Qixiao rubbed his forehead, "Are you very concerned about this ex-wife matter? If you care, I can find her to have a good conversation with you after some time."


    Ji Yu nearly choked on a mouthful of milk.


    She was quite curious about how Gu Qixiao could manage to have her talk to herself.


    Just thinking about it was frightening enough.


    "Alright, I also really want to know how you two got married back then, having never met each other, what was so good about that?"


    She once also thought Gu Qixiao must be a scumbag, but everything in front of her overturned these thoughts, and she didn¡¯t know how she should confront Gu Qixiao with her attitude.


    "You don¡¯t need to worry; my ex-wife and I have cut ties very cleanly."


    Isn¡¯t it clean?


    They wouldn¡¯t recognize each other even when meeting.


    She found it somewhat amusing, but was also afraid Gu Qixiao would notice something, which required a lot of endurance.


    Meanwhile, Gu Qixiao was earnestly exining past matters, talking about the punishment regarding Song Xuan. He still felt a bit guilty in his heart.


    "I¡¯m sorry. For this matter, I indeed owe you an exnation. I also don¡¯t know how I could possibly make it up to you."


    "It¡¯s not you who should be saying sorry. With your attitude, no wonder Song Xuan could misunderstand you liked her." Ji Yu also had some views on these matters.


    Moreover, such repayment might not require such care.


    "Your care for Song Xuan has exceeded the standard for a stranger, so it is quite normal she would have such a delusion."


    She also hoped Gu Qixiao could understand one thing.


    Keep a distance from someone you don¡¯t like, or else being misunderstood in the future would be even more troublesome.


    "That you made Song Xuan misunderstand with your actions really isn¡¯t surprising. You didn¡¯t meet with your ex-wife previously all because of her, in her view."


    She somewhat understood this mindset.


    But to scold without principles, that really is Song Xuan¡¯s problem herself.


    "There won¡¯t be this kind of situation again afterwards, so do you want to ept me?"


    He looked at Ji Yu with expectations in his eyes.


    In the end, Ji Yu shook her head, "Let¡¯s talk about itter; the child¡¯s matters are not yet resolved. We will talk about others after the child is born."


    She just needed to take good care of herself.


    Gu Qixiao also didn¡¯t show signs of discouragement.


    He spent the next few days revolving around Ji Yu¡¯s side.


    He even wanted to apany her for the prenatal check-ups.


    "You want to go with me?" Honestly speaking, Ji Yu felt a bit embarrassed about this.


    After all, it seemed like they weren¡¯t that familiar with each other yet.


    "What, do you want someone else to go with you?"


    Thinking of thest time when Lu Xingchen stood beside Ji Yu, a surge of jealousy immediately flooded over him.


    "I can do it myself. You going with me would only make it awkward, don¡¯t you feel this way too?"


    If there were some rtionship between the two, it would be one thing, but they were mainly just friends.


    "If you give me a status, then it wouldn¡¯t be awkward anymore."


    He was always eager to ask for status in this matter.


    Ji Yu rolled her eyes, feeling speechless about this matter, "You really have too much free time."


    In the end, the two of them still went to the hospital together; however, Ji Yu¡¯s attitude towards this matter was clear¡ªhe was just a friend.


    "Yes, yes, yes, I am just an ordinary friend. Whenever you need, I will immediately step up."

 Chapter 132 Prenatal Examination

    <h4>Chapter 132: Chapter 132 Prenatal Examination</h4>


    Gu Qixiao was incredibly indulgent toward Ji Yu in this regard. No matter what Ji Yu said, he would almost always agree.


    Even if Ji Yu wanted to chase him away, she couldn¡¯t find a good reason to do so.


    "Do you have any other questions?"


    "Will there be any difort for her in the future?" Gu Qixiao was worried Ji Yu might feel ufortable.


    The doctor carefully exined Ji Yu¡¯s condition, and Gu Qixiao meticulously took down notes. Anyone who didn¡¯t know might have thought he was attending a ss and taking study notes.


    "Youngdy, your husband really cares about you. You must be very fortunate."


    Ji Yu gave an awkward smile. Was she supposed to exin that they weren¡¯t actually husband and wife?


    She could only temporarily ept these remarks.


    Still, deep down, Ji Yu couldn¡¯t help but feel touched by Gu Qixiao¡¯s thoughtfulness.


    After all, who wouldn¡¯t appreciate such attentive care?


    As the two walked out, Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t forget to support Ji Yu.


    "I¡¯m only three months along; I don¡¯t need anyone to hold me. Besides, don¡¯t you think this is a bit over the top?"


    She wasn¡¯t feeling unwell and didn¡¯t think such cautiousness was necessary.


    But in Gu Qixiao¡¯s eyes, Ji Yu seemed as fragile as a porcin doll.


    "You¡¯re pregnant, so you should be taken good care of. Why not move to my ce..."


    "No way." Ji Yu tly rejected the suggestion without hesitation.


    Though she wouldn¡¯t continue hiding her pregnancy, that didn¡¯t mean she was nning to make any changes in her rtionship with Gu Qixiao.


    "Then how about dinner tonight?" Gu Qixiao, worried Ji Yu might feel bored, made the offer despite knowing his attempts at courting her might seem a bitckluster. But just seeing her made him naturally want to be near her.


    Even Ji Yu couldn¡¯t help but be curious¡ªwhat was it about her that made him so persistent?


    "Don¡¯t you think your behavior would be embarrassing if others saw you like this?"


    Since when had he ever acted so humble in front of anyone else?


    And yet, with Ji Yu, he was willing to lower his posture. "I¡¯m pursuing you, not negotiating a business deal. Why would it be embarrassing?"


    He cared about his image in front of others, but when it came to Ji Yu, he didn¡¯t even consider it.


    "Dinner¡¯s not happening; I have ns with Qinqin."


    Recently, Feng Qinqin had been preparing for her engagement and had dragged Ji Yu into numerous conversations about her future husband. Any spare moment she had, Qinqin would seek Ji Yu for mental support.


    The smile on Gu Qixiao¡¯s lips instantly faded. "Why are you getting involved in Feng Qinqin¡¯s marriage? Besides, their Feng family has already handled everything; your input won¡¯t change anything."


    He finally understood what people meant by how a girlfriend¡¯s best friend and a boyfriend couldn¡¯t coexist. Even though he hadn¡¯t officially established a rtionship with Ji Yu, the sight of Feng Qinqin was enough to make him frown.


    "Her matters are important to me. She¡¯s my best friend."


    This sentiment had never wavered in Ji Yu¡¯s heart.


    Thinking about the significant influence Feng Qinqin had on Ji Yu, Gu Qixiao couldn¡¯t help but feel a pang of sourness. When would he upy such an irreceable position in Ji Yu¡¯s heart?


    "Let me drive you over, then."


    For now, he wasn¡¯t even her boyfriend, so all he could do was drop her off outside.


    Ji Yu stepped out of the car and found Gu Qixiao wearing an expression that resembled that of a resentful spouse. Seeing this, she couldn¡¯t help butugh. "What kind of look is that?"


    Sometimes, Gu Qixiao truly seemed a little endearing, but this side of him was reserved only for Ji Yu to see.


    "Am I considered your boyfriend?"


    "Dream on. Didn¡¯t I already say we¡¯ll discuss that after the baby is born?" Ji Yu had made it clear earlier and wasn¡¯t about to change her stance so casually.


    Gu Qixiao¡¯s expression turned even more forlorn. "And I don¡¯t even get a title until then? That baby won¡¯t be born for another seven months!"


    If someone else with sharp eyes noticed Ji Yu¡¯s charm in the meantime, what would he even do?


    Ji Yu simply ignored him.


    Feng Qinqin had already been waiting for a while. When she saw Ji Yu, she curiously nced behind her. "What, your President Gu didn¡¯te with you?"


    She was already used to seeing Gu Qixiao wherever Ji Yu went. Not seeing him now made her feel strangely unsettled.


    "Don¡¯t look forward toughing at me. Let¡¯s talk about your engagement preparations instead. Surely you¡¯re not nning to get into a fight with him during the ceremony?"


    At the mention of the engagement party, Feng Qinqin immediately deted. "Ugh, every time you bring it up, I feelpletely stressed and confused. I have no idea what to do about it."


    She looked downright miserable when she talked about it.


    "Previously, I told you he had a girlfriend, didn¡¯t I? Well, they got into an argument and decided to me me for it, saying I must¡¯ve caused their problems. Do I seem like someone who wants to meddle in their mess?"


    Ji Yu raised her eyebrows, surprised by the unexpected development. "So, what¡¯s your n? Are you going to put up with it for now or kick him out?"


    When faced with such dilemmas in the past, Feng Qinqin wouldn¡¯t hesitate to kick the guy out. But this time, things weren¡¯t as simple.


    "My dad¡¯s health still hasn¡¯t improved. He¡¯s always wanted to see me get married. How could I mess things up during such a time?"


    She felt downhearted but couldn¡¯t risk letting her parents down.


    "I say, find someone else and hold the engagement party on the same date."


    Ultimately, Feng Qinqin only saw the guy as a temporary partner anyway; there was no need to make such a big deal of it.


    "But..."


    Feng Qinqin considered the suggestion carefully but felt that it wasn¡¯t very practical. If people found out, she¡¯d inevitably be scolded to death.


    "I don¡¯t even have a suitable backup candidate right now!"


    "Well, think it over carefully. I feel like this guy might have ulterior motives."


    Decisions like this required thorough judgment; otherwise, who could say for sure what his true intentions were?


    The motives weren¡¯t necessarily the problem¡ªit was theplications that might follow.


    "I¡¯ll think about it seriously. If all else fails, I can ask your President Gu to introduce someone. Honestly, as long as I can soothe my dad for now, that would be better than nothing."


    This time, Feng Qinqin drank heavily, visibly distressed over the whole ordeal.


    Ji Yu understood where she wasing from. Still, seeing Qinqin get stered, Ji Yu couldn¡¯t help but feel concerned.


    Since she was pregnant and couldn¡¯t manage to handle Qinqin in this state, she ended up calling Ji Yuanzhou for help.


    Ji Yuanzhou frowned slightly at the sight of an inebriated Feng Qinqin. "I¡¯ll send her home first and thene back for you."


    "Brother, you don¡¯t need to trouble yourself with me. Getting home will be easy for me. Just focus on getting her back safely¡ªQinqin hasn¡¯t been in great spiritstely."


    She was aware of how much Ji Yuanzhou disliked dealing with drunk people.


    Left with no choice, Ji Yuanzhou arranged for a driver to take Ji Yu home while he personally took care of Feng Qinqin.


    Ji Yu felt reassured watching them leave in the car and didn¡¯t think about it much before heading home herself.


    Little did she know, they would surprise her with something huge the following day.

 Chapter 133 Accidental Incident

    <h4>Chapter 133: Chapter 133 idental Incident</h4>


    "Brother, what¡¯s wrong?"


    "Nothing." Ji Yuanzhou¡¯s emotions wereplicated at the moment, leaving him without the energy to exin the whole situation to Ji Yu.


    However, Ji Yu didn¡¯t have much curiosity for such gossip, simply assuming he was still upset aboutst night¡¯s events.


    She even tried asking Gu Qixiao for help in introducing a more suitable match for an arranged marriage.


    "Why are you looking for a marriage partner but not considering me?" Gu Qixiao found it inconceivable. He was standing right there; surely there shouldn¡¯t be any questions about his qualifications?


    "You¡¯re misunderstanding." The moment Ji Yu saw his expression, she knew he had gotten the wrong idea.


    "I¡¯m helping Qinqin find a marriage partner. Her current match has had a girlfriend all along. At this rate, he¡¯ll probably run off with someone else at the engagement banquet."


    Such a situation would inevitably be humiliating.


    Besides, Feng Qinqin never liked him in the first ce, so why continue the entanglement?


    "Feng Qinqin?" Gu Qixiao thought about it carefully but couldn¡¯te up with any suitable candidates.


    "She should be able to weigh the pros and cons herself. It¡¯s better to let her handle it." Based on his understanding of Feng Qinqin, at the very least, she wasn¡¯t someone who acted carelessly.


    In dealing with situations like this, she would definitely proceed with caution.


    Ji Yu raised an eyebrow, unsure of what to say.


    "But I¡¯m afraid Qinqin willpromise because of Uncle Feng¡¯s situation. You should know that this man has alreadyined about Qinqin countless times. I certainly can¡¯t sit idly by on this matter."


    Ji Yu had always been very attentive when it came to matters involving her best friend.


    "But the person you find might not necessarily be suitable. This might be a better choice."


    He sincerely offered his advice, hoping Ji Yu wouldn¡¯t meddle in this matter so casually.


    "Perhaps you should consider if you¡¯re also ready to give me a shot?"


    Ji Yu was long ustomed to Gu Qixiao¡¯s endless hints about making their rtionship official. "Then I¡¯ll take a look at Qinqin¡¯s marriage candidate."


    She couldn¡¯t believe this man was truly fearless about everything.


    Gu Qixiao, helpless, looked at her determined expression and could only follow along.


    "You don¡¯t need toe with me. Dealing with someone like this doesn¡¯t require any extreme measures."


    Previously, Ji Yu had even considered giving the guy a direct warning. ming everything on Feng Qinqin struck her as downright disgraceful.


    "You¡¯re pregnant. Naturally, I can¡¯t just stand by and watch you take risks like this."


    He wanted to protect Ji Yu.


    And it turned out that this time, Gu Qixiao was indeed right to follow her.


    When he saw the man in question, Gu Qixiao¡¯s expression turned slightly conflicted. "Are you sure this is Feng Qinqin¡¯s arranged match?"


    "Yes, we met once before. He acted decently back then. I have no idea what¡¯s gotten into himtely; he¡¯s be more and more erratic."


    There must be a reason behind this. Ji Yu didn¡¯t want to beat around the bush. "Sit here. I¡¯ll talk to him and decide whether it¡¯s worth switching him out."


    The man seemed a little uneasy when he saw Ji Yu. "Doctor Ji, what do you need from me?"


    "I¡¯m here for Qinqin. Tell me, do you actually want to get married or not?" She barely knew this guy but wasn¡¯t going to let that hinder her.


    "The engagement between Feng Qinqin and me got canceled this morning. I don¡¯t know why she suddenly called it off."


    He sounded weary discussing it.


    "I was nning to take care of my family¡¯s expectations quickly, but Feng Qinqin went ahead and canceled the engagement. What am I supposed to do?"


    He sounded almost aggrieved.


    Ji Yu raised an eyebrow, genuinely unaware of this development. "Didn¡¯t she tell you why?"


    Could it really best night¡¯s few words that changed her mind?


    She couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that something important was being overlooked here.


    "I really don¡¯t know. If you¡¯re close to Feng Qinqin, could you please convince her not to go through with such drastic actions? I¡¯m also very anxious."


    He was clearly deeply concerned about the situation.


    Ji Yu raised an eyebrow, unable to agree with him. "What about your girlfriend?"


    Such things ought to be addressed clearly.


    At the mention of his girlfriend, his expression wavered, just briefly.


    But it was only for a moment.


    "My girlfriend knows I have to deal with my family¡¯s expectations. She¡¯s already epted this and won¡¯t cause any more trouble over it."


    "Is that so?" Ji Yu remembered Feng Qinqin¡¯s descriptions and felt doubtful of his im.


    If he couldn¡¯t even protect the woman by his side, what right did he have to act so self-assured in dealing with others?


    "Do you think acting like this makes you a man?"


    "Doctor Ji, you can¡¯t just judge someone¡¯s manhood because of something like this. I¡¯m in a tough position too. It¡¯s normal for families like ours to arrange marriages." His smile was strained, clearly finding Ji Yu unreasonable.


    "Is that so?"


    Ji Yu said no more and was about to leave when she sensed someone storming toward her.


    If it weren¡¯t for her quick reflexes, that p would havended squarely on her face.


    Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t wait any longer. He stepped forward and shielded Ji Yu. "Who are you?"


    The woman, realizing she hadn¡¯t hit Ji Yu and had drawn others¡¯ attention, became visibly angrier. "Zhang Boyu, is this how you treat me? You said you wouldn¡¯t possibly get engaged, and now you¡¯re courting someone else? If you want to break up, just say so!"


    She was so enraged she seemed hysterical, ring at Ji Yu with venom.


    "You¡¯ve got it all wrong. It¡¯s not what you think. She and I barely know each other, let alone have shared any intimate words."


    Zhang Boyu seemed exasperated and helpless with the situation.


    The woman, however, remained relentless, her voice escting to a sharp squawk. "Oh really? Then why were you just smiling at her?"


    Ji Yu raised an eyebrow, finding the scene both absurd and enlightening. "I don¡¯t want to add fuel to the fire, but your outburst¡ªpping me andining about a smile¡ªdoesn¡¯t this seem a bit ridiculous?"


    Anyone with eyes should be able to see there was no rtionship between the two of them¡ªthey had exchanged only a few words.


    But the woman¡¯s gaze seemed like she wanted to swallow Ji Yu whole.


    "I saw it with my own eyes! You shameless woman!"


    "Calling me shameless over and over¡ªMiss, are you interested in visiting the police station to discuss this further?" Gu Qixiao¡¯s expression darkened, clearly irritated and out of patience.


    If this woman enjoyed causing trouble, he¡¯d simply send her off to the authorities to sort it out.


    "President Gu, this is all just a misunderstanding. Please don¡¯t call the police. Weiwei was just upset over earlier events, which led to her outburst. I¡¯ll make sure to properly educate her when we get home."

 Chapter 134: So That’s How It Is

    <h4>Chapter 134: Chapter 134: So That¡¯s How It Is</h4>


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t want to dwell on the matter, but Gu Qixiao wasn¡¯t about to let it go so easily.


    "Are you serious about what you said?"


    He looked at Zhang Boyu with some impatience in his eyes, "Already had a girlfriend and still discussing marriage arrangements with me earlier?"


    From the start, he felt that Zhang Boyu looked familiar, and now he finally remembered who he was.


    Thest time they searched for a fianc¨¦ for Song Xuan, it seemed he was involved too.


    Zhang Boyu¡¯s expression became a little awkward. "It was all family pressure. I didn¡¯t have a choice."


    "You¡¯re real good at wrapping ¡¯irresponsibility¡¯ in pretty words. You and thisdy make a perfect match," Ji Yu bluntly exposed his excuse.


    Initially, she just wanted to find out what happened, but with this sudden twist, nobody would take it lying down.


    "Let¡¯s go. Whatever happens between them isn¡¯t any of our business."


    She didn¡¯t want to waste her time here.


    Seeing that Ji Yu was okay, Gu Qixiao finally pulled Ji Yu away and left.


    But just as they stepped outside, Ji Yu shook off his wrist. "President Gu, watch your image. If someone sees us like this, wouldn¡¯t they start talking about the two of us being involved?"


    Things like this shouldn¡¯t go on.


    Gu Qixiao wasn¡¯t angry, instead he nonchntly grabbed Ji Yu¡¯s other wrist. "This way, no one can say anything."


    "How is this any different?"


    "It¡¯spletely different," Gu Qixiao¡¯s eyes carried a quiet amusement, as if he had thought of something delightful.


    "This way, everyone will see that it was me initiating. Even if rumors spread online, no one would dare criticize you."


    From beginning to end, he never intended for Ji Yu to be hurt by this.


    Ji Yu raised an eyebrow but chose not to argue further, letting Gu Qixiao lead her to the car.


    "Aren¡¯t you curious enough to go find Feng Qinqin and ask what¡¯s really going on?"


    He had overheard parts of what happened earlier. A canceled engagement ceremony out of nowhere was certainly intriguing.


    Ji Yu massaged her temples, feeling a headacheing on. "Honestly, I¡¯m more worried about what her family will say."


    She wasn¡¯t concerned about Feng Qinqin¡¯s married life. At least in Ji Yu¡¯s eyes, these decisions were Feng Qinqin¡¯s own, but the Feng family¡¯s reaction was the real issue.


    "Please take me to the Feng family¡¯s ce. If things get heated, at least I can help smooth things over."


    She couldn¡¯t bear to let Feng Qinqin deal with this alone.


    Gu Qixiao followed her request and drove Ji Yu to the Feng family¡¯s house.


    Upon seeing Ji Yu, Feng Qinqin¡¯s expression becameplicated, even tinged with embarrassment.


    "Qinqin, I heard you canceled your engagement?"


    "Mm." Feng Qinqin hesitated. Truthfully, she didn¡¯t know how to exin and could only cautiously nce at Ji Yu.


    Gu Qixiao found her gaze curious. "Why are you looking at Yu after canceling your engagement?"


    At this point, Gu Qixiao was already imagining various dramatic scenarios in his head, like Feng Qinqin realizing at thest moment that the person she truly loved was Ji Yu.


    "I¡¯m talking to Yuyu. Should I be looking at you instead?"


    Feng Qinqin rolled her eyes, but at least she seemed less tense than before.


    "Yuyu, do you think my situation right now is really that bad? Is getting married truly such a great achievement?"


    She didn¡¯t see anything good about it.


    "For everyone, marriage means something different. Uncle Feng¡¯s illness¡ªI can understand his feelings, but more than anything, I want you to be well."


    As Feng Qinqin¡¯s close friend, Ji Yu hoped none of this would trouble her too much.


    Feng Qinqin sighed. "Speaking of which, I haven¡¯t even exined it to you. My dad actually isn¡¯t sick at all. When he heard about the canceled engagement this morning, he literally jumped out of bed."


    She should have suspected it sooner.


    "For someone like him to fake being sick, it just shows how desperate he is to marry me off."


    She couldn¡¯t help but vent.


    Ji Yu was dumbfounded. "So what¡¯s the situation now?"


    How did this suddenly be soplicated?


    "It¡¯s still all my dad stirring things up. Anyway, I don¡¯t want to get engaged for now, and I already have someone I like. I¡¯m not going to consider any marriage arrangements for the time being."


    Ji Yu was surprised. "You already have someone you like?"


    She hadn¡¯t noticed a thing.


    "Yeah, but I don¡¯t even know what they think about me. I¡¯m waiting for an answer. This whole ordeal at least gave me some breathing room."


    She had finally sorted out her feelings and was determined not to blindly rush to get engaged.


    Though Ji Yu was astonished at first, she supported Feng Qinqin¡¯s decision. "If it¡¯s love, then be brave¡ªit¡¯s no big deal."


    Nearby, Gu Qixiao started to feel ufortable, his suspicions rising about Feng Qinqin¡¯s peculiar gaze toward Ji Yu. He even began wondering if Feng Qinqin harbored feelings for Ji Yu.


    "Even if you have someone you like, you should mind the gender. Judging from your family¡¯s stance, it¡¯s unlikely they¡¯d ever approve of you being with a woman."


    He tried giving her a heads-up.


    Feng Qinqin rolled her eyes in exasperation. "Yuyu, you better stop hanging around idiots. What if you start catching their stupidity?"


    It was clear she had thoroughlybeled Gu Qixiao as a fool; nothing else could exin the absurdity he just spouted.


    Ji Yu was amused by her andughed outright. "Your gaze toward me today does feel a little off. Does the person you like have something to do with me?"


    This sort of situation intrigued Ji Yu quite a bit.


    Feng Qinqin lowered her head, ultimately choosing not to reveal who she liked. "Yuyu, let me think it over, then I¡¯ll tell you. I really don¡¯t know how to talk about it yet."


    She had wanted to tell Ji Yu before but decided it wasn¡¯t the right moment.


    Since Feng Qinqin refused to say more, Ji Yu didn¡¯t push her. "Then give it your best shot and see what happens. Uncle Feng will likely take your feelings into consideration as well."


    Feng Qinqin sighed. "Hopefully that¡¯ll be the case. Yuyu, don¡¯t worry about my love life, but you should definitely cut ties with Gu Qixiao. Spending too much time with someone like him will rot your brain."


    She whispered quietly into Ji Yu¡¯s ear.


    Gu Qixiao¡¯s veins were practically bulging as he forced a polite smile. "Do you think you¡¯re whispering quietly?"


    Leaning into Ji Yu while speaking at that volume wasughably pointless.


    Ji Yu was amused by their antics and knew they were only joking, so she didn¡¯t take their words to heart.


    "If there¡¯s anything you need,e find me. Don¡¯t waste energy arguing with your family. Uncle Feng may want you to marry soon, but he definitely won¡¯t force you to be with someone you don¡¯t like."


    She only wished the best for her dear friend to find happiness.

 Chapter 135: Complex Emotions

    <h4>Chapter 135: Chapter 135: Complex Emotions</h4>


    After Ji Yu returned, she didn¡¯t receive any further messages from Feng Qinqin. It seemed like, for now, this matter didn¡¯t need her attention.


    However, things between her and Gu Qixiao were indeed a bitplicated.


    Even the Ji family¡¯s parents wanted to ask about Gu Qixiao.


    "Mom, Dad, even if you want to consider Gu Qixiao as a son-inw, you¡¯d need my agreement first. Honestly, given the current situation between us, it¡¯s unlikely."


    At least until all the troubles surrounding Gu Qixiao were resolved, Ji Yu absolutely wasn¡¯t going to have any overly intimate rtionship with him.


    "What kind of talk is that? I see you and Gu get along quite well. Are you trying to start something and then walk away?"


    Even using a phrase like "start something and walk away."


    To be honest, Ji Yu hadn¡¯t expected that.


    She hadn¡¯t been meeting with Gu Qixiao as frequently recently. Maybe Gu Qixiao was already feeling tired of it too.


    "Mom, maybe Gu Qixiao is just caught up in the moment. Don¡¯t concern yourself so much with our matters. If fate brings us together, we will naturally find our way."


    But judging by their current situation, it seemed like fate wasn¡¯t on their side.


    Madam Ji, however, was a bit worried. "If you haven¡¯t ¡¯started something and walked away,¡¯ then why has Gu been messaging metely saying you¡¯re ignoring him?"


    Ji Yu nearly choked on her water when she heard that.


    "Mom, since when did you have Gu Qixiao¡¯s contact information?"


    When had the two of them grown so familiar behind her back?


    Madam Jipletely embodied the stereotype of a mother-inw growing fonder of her prospective son-inw. Given the situation, she was also starting to worry about the rtionship between Ji Yu and Gu Qixiao.


    "What¡¯s so unusual about me having Gu¡¯s contact? He even reached out not too long ago to ask about what gifts you like. How thoughtful of him."


    Ji Yu¡¯s expression turnedplicated. She didn¡¯t know how Madam Ji would feel once she found out that Gu Qixiao was actually her ex-husband.


    "Mom, stop overthinking. Things between Gu Qixiao and me are reallyplicated. Frankly, I don¡¯t think he even wants to be with me like this."


    Getting together without rity would only lead to a messy end.


    She and Gu Qixiao couldn¡¯t force a rtionship together just because of the child.


    That would clearly be inappropriate, so Ji Yu decided not to dwell on it.


    "But Gu has been really good to you. He even cares a lot about the child. Where else could you find such a suitable partner?"


    "But he has so much trouble surrounding him. If we get together, I¡¯ll definitely be the one suffering," Ji Yu confessed honestly with Madam Ji.


    "There¡¯s always someone in his life who needs his care. If we have conflicts in the future, who do you think he¡¯d side with?" To her, rtionships just weren¡¯t reliable.


    Who said every rtionship had to have a happy ending?


    At the very least, their current dynamic wasn¡¯t so bad.


    "Is that true?"


    For a moment, Madam Ji hesitated, unsure of how to feel about Gu Qixiao.


    "See? He didn¡¯t even tell you about this, which proves he¡¯s not beingpletely honest. Let¡¯s stop talking about the two of us."


    Ji Yu seized the opportunity to put Gu Qixiao on the spot.


    Served him right for using such sneaky tactics all the time.


    If Madam Ji hadn¡¯t brought it up today, Ji Yu would¡¯ve been leftpletely in the dark.


    "Still, it¡¯s a bit much that Gu didn¡¯t mention something this important to me. But why are things between the two of you so difficult?"


    Madam Ji still hoped Ji Yu could have someone who truly cared for her, someone who could at least take good care of her daily life.


    "Mom, are you saying you don¡¯t want me staying home with you? Are you trying to get rid of me?"


    This time, Ji Yu rarely resorted to a yful tactic. Madam Ji, unable to resist, replied, "What nonsense! You can stay here as long as you want. I just worry it¡¯ll be hard for you to raise the child alone."


    Even if Ji Yu tried her best to make up for theck of a father figure, the child would ultimately need a father someday.


    "We¡¯ll cross that bridge when wee to it. Who knows? Maybe I¡¯ll fall for someone else by then."


    Being a single mother wasn¡¯t illegal. Besides, with a family like theirs, was there any need to worry about these things?


    "Mom, I¡¯ll work hard to earn money to raise my son. We don¡¯t need to think about all that."


    "Alright, as long as you¡¯ve thought it through." Madam Ji didn¡¯t press Ji Yu further, only wishing she could find some happiness in the future.


    As for Gu Qixiao, he had initially nned to have a good talk with Madam Ji, maybe evenin a little about Ji Yu. But he realized that even Madam Ji seemed colder toward him now.


    Unable to sit still, he decided to go straight to the Ji family¡¯s house.


    "Gu, what brings you here?" Madam Ji¡¯s expression didn¡¯t change much, but she was clearly less warm than usual.


    "I wanted to check in on Yu. There¡¯s something I need to talk to her about."


    Judging by the situation, he couldn¡¯t help but feel that something was off.


    How could he not be surprised by this?


    "You¡¯re here to see Ji Yu? She¡¯s probably not free to see you today. She¡¯s still resting."


    Subtly, Madam Ji tried to block Gu Qixiao at the door. But Gu, ever persistent, refused to give up even after hearing that.


    "Can I wait here for her?" His eyes were sincere, making it hard for Madam Ji to discern his true intentions.


    "If you truly like our Yu, you should provide her with enough security. Look at the way you¡¯ve handled things¡ªkeeping secrets from me and still wanting to meet her. Aren¡¯t you being a little too optimistic?"


    Madam Ji straightforwardly shut him down; this situation couldn¡¯t drag on indefinitely.


    Gu Qixiao immediately guessed it must be about Song Xuan. "Auntie, may I exin this matter to you in detail? I didn¡¯t rify earlier because I really didn¡¯t think it was significant."


    He sighed, appearing genuinely intent on exining himself. Madam Ji hesitated; seeing him like this, she thought there might have been some kind of misunderstanding and finally let him in.


    "Actually, I had already considered exining this to you before, but Song Xuan is just someone who needs my care. There¡¯s no way topare her to Yu at all."


    One is merely an added responsibility, while the other is the person he intends to protect for the rest of his life.


    Madam Ji frowned. "What do you mean by that? Are you expecting Ji Yu to put up with someone like her?"


    To her, that was absolutely uneptable.


    Gu Qixiao quickly tried to exin, "You¡¯re misunderstanding me. I¡¯ve already arranged for her to attend school. Other than during the holidays, she won¡¯t being back. In the future, she¡¯ll find a suitable partner to marry."


    But that partner would never be Gu Qixiao.


    He had already made up his mind about that long ago.

 Chapter 136: Telling of the Past

    <h4>Chapter 136: Chapter 136: Telling of the Past</h4>


    "I know you must have some misconceptions about this matter, but the situation between Yu and me has nothing to do with her, and I absolutely won¡¯t let Yu be bullied."


    He spoke with conviction, but Ji Yu upstairs felt helpless.


    "Gu Qixiao, take those words back. There¡¯s no need."


    She didn¡¯t believe in evesting love¡ªat least, not yet.


    So the issue here would need some time to resolve.


    Gu Qixiao looked a little helpless. "Yu, are you still dissatisfied with how I handled things?"


    "How can I be satisfied when you¡¯ve handed me a ticking time bomb that could explode at any moment?"


    Even if Song Xuan was temporarily sent to school, could Song Xuan stay in school forever?


    Ultimately, Gu Qixiao felt indebted, and eventually, this matter would repeat itself.


    Situations like this were hard for Ji Yu to face.


    "I never nned to bring her back, and I¡¯ve already instructed Assistant Li to handle this matter. You have no reason to worry about it."


    He looked at Ji Yu with a persistent expression that always carried a hint of helplessness, as if he could tolerate anything.


    But what Ji Yu wanted was not this kind of tolerance.


    It was a better solution to the problem.


    She stopped looking at Gu Qixiao, turned around, and walked back to her room, acting as though Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t exist.


    On the side, Madam Ji could vaguely sense what was going on. "Why don¡¯t you both take a step back for now? Yu is an incredibly stubborn child; no matter what you say, she won¡¯t listen. She¡¯ll only react when things unfold the way she expects."


    Speaking of this, she felt a pang of sorrow for Ji Yu. "To be honest, much of this stems from her childhood in the orphanage. Even though the adults there were fairly kind to her, there were inevitably moments when she was overlooked, which taught her to avoid these kinds of hurts."


    Before things even happen, she imagines the worst-case scenario as a form of self-protection.


    Just like the current situation. Deep down, Ji Yu is still afraid of what life with Gu Qixiao might bring, so she chooses to sever everything before it even begins.


    Gu Qixiao somewhat understood Madam Ji¡¯s meaning, but he still felt unwilling. "I know what Yu means, but I can¡¯t just leave her like this."


    These matters seemed to tell him that Ji Yu¡¯s emotions were fragile and needed his help to sort through them.


    "Why are you as stubborn as Yu? Don¡¯t overthink it; hurry back and focus on managing your own issues¡ªthat¡¯s far more important."


    You can¡¯t persist in clinging to this matter forever.


    Gu Qixiao found himself at a loss for words, his gaze shifting to Ji Yu¡¯s room with a hint of dejection. "Then, I hope that when you look after her, you won¡¯t view me with bias. Yu is truly important to me."


    He couldn¡¯t bear not to care about Ji Yu¡¯s affairs.


    "Why must you insist?" Madam Ji subtly tried to dissuade him, but Gu Qixiao seemed rather oblivious to her intent.


    "What I mean is, leave yourself some room to maneuver. I¡¯m very familiar with Ji Yu¡¯s personality; she¡¯d rather give things up entirely than endure torment."


    For Ji Yu, being tormented by emotional matters felt like humiliation.


    "I¡¯ve already thought these things through. Auntie, I hope you can support me. I¡¯ll take good care of Yu."


    His eyes were sincere, a stark contrast to his typically cold demeanor.


    Madam Ji was somewhat moved, perhaps surprised by Gu Qixiao¡¯s persistence regarding this matter.


    "You really are just like Yu, aren¡¯t you? Once you two are together, neither of you will want to yield to the other."


    This sort of dynamic would be like fire meeting fire.


    "Rest assured, I¡¯ll never ignore your messages. If you want to know about Yu, I¡¯ll keep you informed, but I¡¯d advise you not to disturb her for the time being."


    Gu Qixiao hesitated for a moment, then finally nodded.


    Though Gu Qixiao hadn¡¯te in person, he still arranged for people to follow Ji Yu secretly from the shadows.


    Ji Yu nced at the people lingering nearby and felt overwhelmed. "There¡¯s no need for you to keep tailing me. Go back and tell Gu Qixiao that I won¡¯t disappear without reason."


    She had long since noticed these people. It seemed Gu Qixiao was making a fuss over nothing by orchestrating all this.


    But despite Ji Yu¡¯s words, they showed no intention of leaving, and had even arranged to secretly photograph her from a distance.


    "Yu, do you have paparazzi following you too?" Lu Xingchen, sensitive to cameras, instinctively took action to protect Ji Yu.


    Ji Yu looked at him, startled.


    "Xingchen, what are you doing here?" She was surprised, finding the situation inexplicably bewildering.


    "I was abroad filming a movie recently and hadn¡¯t had time to visit you. How have things been for youtely?" Lu Xingchen¡¯s warm smile carried an undeniable charm, as if he could brighten any moment.


    "Not bad, nothing major. As for those people, they¡¯re not paparazzi¡ªthey were sent by Gu Qixiao. Don¡¯t worry; they won¡¯t publish any photos."


    They knew their boundaries.


    Lu Xingchen raised an eyebrow, puzzled about what Gu Qixiao was trying to do this time.


    "You and Gu Qixiao...?"


    He wanted to ask if they were together but feared Ji Yu might give him a definitive answer.


    "It¡¯s just whatever. I don¡¯t know what¡¯s gotten into him; he¡¯s so persistent, he even had someone tail me."


    Under the guise of protection, but it was also clearly meant to monitor Ji Yu¡¯s movements.


    Afraid she might fly into a rage and vanish without a trace.


    "If you don¡¯t like it, I¡¯ll have them removed right now."


    Ji Yu shook her head. "There¡¯s no need; I¡¯ve gotten used to it."


    Over time, she had be desensitized to such things. Even if they kept taking pictures, it didn¡¯t affect her anymore¡ªthose photos were only for Gu Qixiao anyway.


    "By the way, Xingchen, why was the filming for yourtest movie so hush-hush?"


    "This time the shoot was kept very low-key, and I¡¯m sort of a surprise reveal for this project." He smiled as he handed Ji Yu a ss of milk.


    "Ah, I see."


    The two chatted casually, and while there was nothing unusual about it, the people following them captured problematic angles.


    In their camera shots, Ji Yu and Lu Xingchen wereughing and chatting¡ªextremely close and intimate. The images were infuriating to behold.


    When Gu Qixiao saw the photos, he nearly snapped his pen in half.


    "President Gu, is there something about the proposal you¡¯re unhappy with?"

 Chapter 137 Misunderstanding Occurs

    <h4>Chapter 137: Chapter 137 Misunderstanding urs</h4>


    Gu Qixiao stared intently at the photo on his phone,pletely tuning out the rest of the conversation.


    "It¡¯s nothing."


    Assistant Li had long since realized that the only person capable of making Gu Qixiao react this way was Ji Yu.


    But recently, Ji Yu didn¡¯t seem interested in meeting Gu Qixiao at all, so why was he suddenly angry now?


    As more and more photos kepting through, Gu Qixiao¡¯s expression grew darker and darker. The team leader reporting on the current project felt as though every sentence he spoke somehow became problematic.


    Otherwise, why would Gu Qixiao¡¯s face look this displeased with every single statement?


    "President Gu, maybe we should make further improvements. How about we pause the meeting for now?"


    He truly didn¡¯t have the courage to keep going.


    "Hmm." Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t bother acknowledging their expressions and directly walked out of the conference room with his jacket.


    "Assistant Li, what¡¯s going on? You¡¯ve been by President Gu¡¯s side for so long¡ªcan¡¯t you give us a hint?" They could no longer withstand Gu Qixiao¡¯s oppressive mood.


    Assistant Li suddenly felt like a wise old eunuch from a historical drama. "This situation... you¡¯ll need to analyze it yourselves. Look at President Gu¡¯s recent behavior and how often he¡¯s been stepping outtely. Don¡¯t you understand yet?"


    When Ji Yu was around Gu Qixiao, he never worked overtime.


    Now, because they haven¡¯t been able to see each other, he¡¯s been throwing himself into work day and night, as if work is the only thing that can fill the empty void within him.


    "You don¡¯t need to be too nervous. President Gu isn¡¯t targeting you specifically; he¡¯s just against everyone right now."


    The subordinates struggled to hold it together, feeling that the entire situation was inexplicably bizarre.


    Meanwhile, Gu Qixiao had no idea what they were thinking and had already headed to the restaurant to find Ji Yu.


    As soon as he walked in, he saw Ji Yu and Lu Xingchen sitting nearby, engrossed in conversation andughing together.


    Jealousy surged inside him like an overturned vat of vinegar.


    Without hesitation, he walked straight over to Ji Yu and sat down beside her,pletely ignoring Lu Xingchen¡¯s startled expression.


    "President Gu, what¡¯s the meaning of this?" Lu Xingchen couldn¡¯t help but feel Gu Qixiao was being rather rude. His actions were undeniably unsightly.


    "I came to see what Yu is up to."


    Clearly, the photos he¡¯d seen earlier had rattled him, though Ji Yu knew his temperament all too well. She had long grown ustomed to his antics and responded with calm indifference.


    "If you have something to say, just say it."


    She had no intention of spending time with Gu Qixiao.


    Gu Qixiao felt as though he¡¯d been stabbed in the heart, and seeing Ji Yu¡¯s dismissive attitude only made him feel even more bitter.


    "It¡¯s been so long since we¡¯vest seen each other. Is it wrong for me to want to visit you?"


    Ji Yu rolled her eyes. "Do you even hear yourself? ¡¯So long¡¯? Thest time you came to my house was three days ago."


    He was acting as though they¡¯d been separated for months.


    Gu Qixiao paused, stumped for a moment. "Yu, haven¡¯t you heard of the phrase ¡¯every day feels like a year¡¯?"


    He felt that every second away from Ji Yu dragged painfully, and ording to Assistant Li, their President Gu could sometimes be a real lovestruck fool.


    "You have time to have dinner with Lu Xingchen but no time to talk to me?"


    Lu Xingchen had already been quite annoyed at Gu Qixiao¡¯s sudden appearance, and thistestment only made him more displeased.


    "Why wouldn¡¯t I be able to meet with Yu? Our rtionship ispletely normal." They didn¡¯t owe Gu Qixiao any exnations about their interactions.


    Clearly, Lu Xingchen was growing more impatient with Gu Qixiao. Men¡¯s intuition often kicked in, and from the moment he saw Gu Qixiao, he¡¯d felt uneasy, as though this man didn¡¯t belong here.


    Gu Qixiao sneered, "Oh, really? Lu Xingchen, don¡¯t you realize your status could bring trouble to Yu?"


    Lu Xingchen was always surrounded by rumors and scandals, and that alone was enough to cause issues¡ªthere was no need to borate further.


    Ji Yu frowned. "I haven¡¯t said or done anything problematic with Xingchen. Even if those people online want to spread baseless gossip, don¡¯t you know better? Why use that tone to bring this up?"


    She valued her friends and wouldn¡¯t distance herself from someone just because of some petty rumors.


    Gu Qixiao felt wronged. "But they say you two are a couple. What about me?"


    He wanted to be with Ji Yu, didn¡¯t he?


    He¡¯d held Ji Yu¡¯s hand countless times, yet there had been no photos back then. Now, of all times, rumors were suddenly everywhere¡ªhe had strong opinions about this.


    "You and I don¡¯t have that kind of rtionship either."


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t even bother arguing further with him.


    Recently, she¡¯d been learning many new things and found it unnecessary to consider these pointless matters.


    "Your behavior is problematic. I suggest you stop acting like this."


    Senseless disys like these would only make people feel irritated.


    Still, Gu Qixiao remained persistent, even as Ji Yu clearly showed her disdain without taking any significant action against him.


    Lu Xingchen watched the situation unfold, fully understanding everything without needing further exnation.


    "Yu, when did your rtionship with President Gu get this friendly?"


    He¡¯d only been away for a brief time, and yet it felt as though everything had changed.


    Lu Xingchen looked at Ji Yu with a hint of hope, as though wishing she would refute him directly.


    Ji Yu sighed. "There¡¯s no ¡¯friendly¡¯ rtionship between us, Xingchen. You must be mistaken."


    As she spoke, she shot Gu Qixiao a re.


    Lu Xingchen ought to have been pleased by Ji Yu¡¯s denial, yet for some reason, the oue only left him feeling worse, like a lump in his throat that wouldn¡¯t go away.


    He¡¯d have felt better if she hadn¡¯t denied it at all.


    Ji Yu noticed Lu Xingchen¡¯s strange expression and grew concerned. "Xingchen, are you okay? You don¡¯t look well. Maybe you should go home and rest?"


    Lu Xingchen forced a weak smile, reluctant to leave Ji Yu alone with Gu Qixiao. "It¡¯s nothing. I¡¯ve just sustained a minor injury recently, and that¡¯s probably why I¡¯m feeling a little off."


    "If you already know it¡¯s just a minor injury, then don¡¯t try to gain sympathy. Someone who doesn¡¯t know might even think you¡¯re seriously hurt."


    Gu Qixiao had no intention of letting Lu Xingchen off the hook so easily.


    After all, if he didn¡¯t suppress his rival now, his rival would only overshadow himter. He needed to act decisively and eliminate any further issues.


    Ji Yu nced at the absurd situation unfolding before her, resisting the urge to roll her eyes. Gu Qixiao¡¯s behavior resembled that of a possessive little dog, attacking indiscriminately.


    "Gu Qixiao, what exactly are you trying to aplish here? Xingchen is already injured, yet you¡¯re still spouting these sarcastic remarks."


    She felt these remarks deserved to be directed at certain unreasonable individuals.


    Of course, Gu Qixiao knew Ji Yu was upset, so he wasn¡¯t about to push things further with Lu Xingchen. "I was just joking, that¡¯s all."

 Chapter 138: Striking at the Love Rival

    <h4>Chapter 138: Chapter 138: Striking at the Love Rival</h4>


    He¡¯s quite the expert when ites to taking down romantic rivals.


    Besides, the way Lu Xingchen was looking at her just now was already so obvious. If he didn¡¯t react, wouldn¡¯t that be tantamount to retreating without a fight?


    Ji Yu felt helpless about situations like this and simply dragged him away.


    "Alright, stop saying these nonsensical things, and hurry back to deal with your own matters."


    She still needed some time to sort things out with Gu Qixiao.


    But this time, Gu Qixiao showed no intention of leaving. "You can have a meal with Lu Xingchen, so why can¡¯t you have one with me?"


    He stood stubbornly by Ji Yu¡¯s side, clearly unwilling to go anywhere.


    Ji Yu was just about to say something when Gu Qixiao¡¯s phone rang.


    After listening to the report on the other end, his brows furrowed tighter and tighter. "Get all the posts taken down immediately."


    He regretted stirring things up with Ji Yu at a time like this, which had allowed others to exploit the situation.


    After hanging up, he was no longer stubborn. "Yu, let¡¯s not bicker about this for now. Let¡¯s find a ce to sit down and talk. The fact that you and Lu Xingchen were having a meal together just got photographed."


    Ji Yu was already used to things like this and didn¡¯t think much of it. "Even if it was photographed, it¡¯s no big deal. Those spections don¡¯t affect me."


    He felt a bit helpless. If it were just Lu Xingchen, it might not be a problem. But the issue was that he had been there too, with an obviously not-so-pleasant expression. The photos would definitely lead to plenty of gossip.


    "Get in the car first, and we¡¯ll talk. I admit I was a little careless about this."


    He felt guilty about the situation, but right now, getting Ji Yu out of here seemed like the better option.


    Seeing Gu Qixiao¡¯s expression, Ji Yu could tell there was more to this. So she didn¡¯t persist further.


    Once in the car, she opened her phone and saw a message from Tian. It turned out that pictures of the three of them sitting together had been taken and maliciously spected upon.


    "This is what you¡¯re talking about?" She found the video content utterly absurd.


    Their rtionships weren¡¯t anything close to what was being implied. "There¡¯s nothing like that between Xingchen and me, and as for you and me, that¡¯s even more impossible."


    Gu Qixiao had initially wanted to exin, but upon hearing this, he was instantly displeased. "What do you mean by ¡¯you and me are even more impossible¡¯?"


    That was absolutely uncalled for.


    Ji Yu chuckled, having long made up her mind about this issue. "I prefer to handle these things with this kind of attitude. Besides, what¡¯s wrong with me saying that?"


    There was no chance with Lu Xingchen, and there was no chance with Gu Qixiao either. Honestly, she found all these spections quite exasperating.


    "They can specte all they want, but it doesn¡¯t affect me. I have no such feelings for you or Xingchen."


    Some people were saying Ji Yu wanted to "cling to a big fish," but Ji Yu found such "big fish" thoroughly unappealing.


    Gu Qixiao felt as though he¡¯d just been stabbed. "The way you say things always makes me sound like the bad guy."


    He had clearly been good to Ji Yu, but now she was outright belittling him.


    "Haven¡¯t I always told you as much? You still send people to spy on me. Honestly, I think you¡¯re just bored and have too much money on your hands. Why don¡¯t you think about sending those people back?"


    To Ji Yu, those people were absolutely unnecessary.


    "If you don¡¯t like seeing me, I can stay away from you. But those people are here to protect you; they must remain by your side."


    He didn¡¯t mind being aggrieved, but Ji Yu¡¯s safety was non-negotiable.


    Ji Yu raised her eyebrows. "Oh? Then tell me, what danger could I possibly be in right now with them around? Aren¡¯t they just passing my itinerary to you?"


    She knew their purpose. She wasn¡¯t outright repulsed by it, but she certainly couldn¡¯t like it either.


    Ji Yu had always been rational before, and she still was now.


    "Alright, I¡¯m almost home. Stop worrying about the gossip between me and others. Honestly, none of this is worth stressing over."


    These things were distractions, nothing more.


    To Ji Yu, most of it was meaningless, and there was no point wasting time or energy on it.


    Gu Qixiao couldn¡¯t understand how she wasn¡¯t fazed. "Doesn¡¯t any of this bother you in the slightest?"


    He cared about these things, afraid something might upset her.


    But right now, it all seemed like a joke.


    "I¡¯m very clear about what I want, Gu Qixiao. And you can¡¯t give me that. So why should I waste my time hoping?"


    With that, Ji Yu walked through her door.


    In truth, her emotions were low, but Gu Qixiao never seemed to notice during such moments.


    Madam Ji saw her daughter¡¯s state and sighed. "You two are just tormenting each other. What¡¯s the point? If it doesn¡¯t work, do you want me to resolve this so-called ¡¯Meimei¡¯ situation for you?"


    "Forget it. Even if it¡¯s resolved, Gu Qixiao will just me me for it. Isn¡¯t that pitiful?"


    She didn¡¯t want to deal with that. To her, it was an unnecessary form of torment.


    Whenever she tried to bring order to these matters, the result was always a mess.


    "Maybe it¡¯s the pregnancy making me emotional, but I¡¯ve already stopped dwelling on it."


    She didn¡¯t want to think about Gu Qixiao orpete meaninglessly with Song Xuan.


    Does being more ruthless or better really guarantee love?


    "You¡¯re too stubborn," Madam Ji said. "Look at you now. I worry you won¡¯t know how to face Gu Qixiaoter."


    Ji Yu chuckled. "It¡¯s simple. If something needs to be let go, just let it go. Look at how hard I¡¯m trying to let go right now."


    Sometimes, letting go took courage, and it was anything but easy.


    By now, she had done all she could.


    She just hoped there wouldn¡¯t be more conflicts in the future.


    "Mom, I¡¯m going upstairs to rest. Don¡¯t worry about the online gossip either. After a while, they¡¯ll forget all about it."


    She had long since grown used to these things. Besides, with a friend like Lu Xingchen, interactions with the entertainment industry were inevitable.


    What she hadn¡¯t expected though, was Li Shishi¡¯s curiosity about the matter.


    "Are you close with Lu Xingchen? Or is he your backup option?"


    What kind of nonsense was this?


    Ji Yu rubbed her temples and chose not to reply, nor was there any clear way to exin.

 Chapter 139 Curiosity

    <h4>Chapter 139: Chapter 139 Curiosity</h4>


    Ji Yu wasn¡¯t too concerned about this matter.


    However, things were a bit troublesome for Lu Xingchen. Though his agent didn¡¯t demand much from him, rumors like these still needed to be minimized as much as possible.


    "I can see clearly what¡¯s going on between you and Yu, but she already has someone else by her side. Why would you stir up trouble unnecessarily?"


    Such matters weren¡¯t beneficial to him.


    "I just chatted with Yu for a while. It¡¯s not like what people are saying online."


    "But can¡¯t you see? Their spections aren¡¯tpletely off. Would you rush to find Ji Yu if you didn¡¯t have feelings for her?" The agent red at him with disappointment, well aware of his inner thoughts.


    Lu Xingchen remained silent, his mind lingering on Ji Yu¡¯s interactions with Gu Qixiao earlier today.


    Only those familiar with Ji Yu would understand.


    It was an unusual urrence.


    "I know what I need to do next; I don¡¯t need your reminders."


    Since Ji Yu already had someone else by her side, he had no ns to interfere. But it seemed the rtionship between Ji Yu and Gu Qixiao hadn¡¯t progressed to that extent either.


    "You¡¯re really something else¡ªsuch a headache for me. Should I remind you that this is a tough situation?"


    The agent only hoped Lu Xingchen wouldn¡¯t act so impulsively in the future.


    And Lu Xingchen understood this well. He had no intention of seeking Ji Yu out again anytime soon.


    Ji Yu¡¯s life seemed to have returned to the way it was before either of them entered it, osciting daily between the hospital and home.


    "Can I remove the stitches on my face now?" Li Shishi asked eagerly, waiting for the gauze toe off, her mood visibly lifted.


    "While you are indeed ready to remove the gauze on your face, you need to remember my instructions. For the next year, you must strictly follow my guidelines. Otherwise, your face won¡¯t heal to its optimal state."


    This, she understood well.


    "Don¡¯t worry. I care about my face more than anyone. Any mark left on my face would be unbearable."


    She genuinely felt grateful to Ji Yu.


    However, she didn¡¯t forget to ask about Ji Yu¡¯s rtionship with Lu Xingchen.


    "To be honest, what¡¯s the deal between you and Lu Xingchen?" She had seen him a few times before¡ªabsolutely handsome and with a great personality.


    "A friendship. We¡¯ve crossed paths before, but the online rumors arepletely unfounded."


    Ji Yu knew Li Shishi loved gossip, often suspecting that she had entered the entertainment industry purely out of a fondness for it.


    "You know, with your personality, you really don¡¯t capitalize on good opportunities. Such great potential, and yet you don¡¯t seize it."


    But thinking of how even Gu Qixiao was actively pursuing Ji Yu, it didn¡¯t seem too unreasonable.


    "You should focus on recovering your face. Leave other matters aside for now."


    For now, she didn¡¯t want to discuss her feelings. Besides, Lu Xingchen was in the midst of a career boost¡ªrumors like these were of no benefit to him.


    "Sister Yu, President Gu is here again. Are you really not nning to see him?"


    Tian knew Ji Yu¡¯s attitude towards Gu Qixiao, as well as the fact that her feelings weren¡¯tpletely absent¡ªcertain circumstances simply prevented them from being together for the time being.


    "What¡¯s he here for?"


    Ji Yu frowned, uninterested in speaking with Gu Qixiao.


    "He seems to have something urgent."


    Just as Tian spoke, Gu Qixiao barged in. "Yu, I need you toe with me to Song Xuan¡¯s school. There seems to be an issue with her face."


    Apparently, he was worried about Song Xuan¡¯s predicament.


    Ji Yu nced at his anxious expression but refrained from asking questions. She simply called Tian to grab the necessary tools and headed to the school.


    Gu Qixiao had chosen the city¡¯s top private university, which exuded a sense of luxury and sophistication.


    However, Ji Yu couldn¡¯t care less about appearances in situations like this.


    "Since I¡¯m here, can we hurry up and bring her out?"


    Otherwise, was she supposed to go search for her?


    Gu Qixiao sighed helplessly. "Her face has issues and she doesn¡¯t want to leave her room, so we have to go find her."


    "Gu Qixiao, are you sure you¡¯re not joking? I¡¯m pregnant, and you expect me to personally fetch Song Xuan for treatment?"


    "Please, I don¡¯t have any other choice. Her situation is indeed difficult to handle."


    He hadn¡¯t considered Ji Yu¡¯s pregnancy¡ªhis mind was focused solely on Song Xuan¡¯s worsening condition. If furtherplications arose, Song Xuan might cling to him even more, a situation he clearly aimed to avoid.


    Ji Yu sighed in exasperation but ultimately chose topromise. After all, Song Xuan had undergone surgery under her care.


    When Song Xuan saw Gu Qixiao, she burst into tears, her face a mess of anguish. "Xiao, you¡¯re finally here. With my face like this, how can I face anyone? Please just take me away."


    Her face was covered in countless red dots, making her truly unpresentable.


    Unfortunately, Gu Qixiao had no intention of taking her home. "I brought Yu here to treat you. Taking you home won¡¯t fix your problem."


    He didn¡¯t want to let Song Xuan return home, knowing she¡¯d inevitably create more trouble there.


    "Ji Yu?" Song Xuan was stunned, unable to believe Gu Qixiao had arranged things so thoroughly.


    If he really cared about her face, couldn¡¯t he have dealt with this after leaving her alone?


    She was furious but had no outlet to vent her anger. "I don¡¯t want anyone to see me¡ªpeople would just look at me with disgust. I don¡¯t want to live like this."


    Desperate, she clung to Gu Qixiao¡¯s sleeve, showing no inclination to let Ji Yu treat her.


    Faced with this disy, how could Ji Yu remain oblivious? This was clearly a calcted act of ying the victim. Someone like her was better left alone.


    "Since you don¡¯t need my treatment, sort it out yourselves. I have business at the hospital and won¡¯t interfere with your private matters."


    With that, Ji Yu turned to leave, refusing to linger in such a ridiculous scene.


    Gu Qixiao saw Ji Yu about to walk away and immediately signaled Assistant Li to block her.


    "Song Xuan, if you want treatment, then stop talking nonsense."


    His gaze was firm and expectant, making it clear how seriously he took the matter.


    Song Xuan¡¯s expression turned sour, but she recognized the gravity of his words, understanding his serious stance.


    "Xiao, don¡¯t be upset. I¡¯ll ept treatment, but I don¡¯t want to stay here anymore. Peopleugh at my face, and I can¡¯t take the humiliation."


    For her, this was an opportunity to leave¡ªtime away from the monotony of her day-to-day struggles in this ce.


    "We¡¯ll talk after your treatment. I¡¯ll exin to your professors about the issues with your face, but you can¡¯t abandon your studies simply because of this."

 Chapter 140 Special Treatment

    <h4>Chapter 140: Chapter 140 Special Treatment</h4>


    Ji Yu stood off to the side, watching them sticking so close together. She couldn¡¯t quite understand why Song Xuan had made such a choice.


    Couldn¡¯t she just stay here to study?


    "So have you made up your minds yet? My time is precious, and I don¡¯t want to waste it on meaningless things."


    "Of course, sorry to trouble you, Yu." Gu Qixiao was truly clueless about certain things.


    For instance, he hadn¡¯t noticed that Ji Yu was upset.


    Assistant Li took one look at the scene and instantly understood why Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t have a significant other. This was entirely his own doing, wasn¡¯t it?


    Looking at the situation before his eyes, it would be stranger if he actually managed to have a girlfriend.


    Ji Yu performed a quick examination and said, "It seems to be an allergic reaction. You should know what you¡¯re allergic to. Just apply some ointment, and avoid the allergen in the future."


    She instructed Tian to fetch a box of ointment. "Can I leave now?"


    She really didn¡¯t feel like staying to treat them anymore. And since they were already together, why bother putting on an act?


    Gu Qixiao couldn¡¯t grasp why Ji Yu was angry. He wanted to step forward and exin, but Song Xuan kept crying and clinging onto him, making it impossible for him to get away.


    Assistant Li hastily escorted Ji Yu out, not forgetting to speak up for Gu Qixiao before leaving. "Miss Ji, please don¡¯t get the wrong idea. Our President Gu has absolutely no other intentions¡ªit¡¯s just that Song Xuan refuses to let go of him."


    "Is that so?" Ji Yu was already ustomed to situations like these. She had been mentally prepared for this scenario long ago, so she didn¡¯t feel particrly hurt anymore.


    "Not rejecting her is the real problem. He¡¯s a grown man¡ªdoesn¡¯t he have enough strength for something like this? Honestly, he¡¯s the one mishandling the situation; don¡¯t pin it on me for not understanding their rtionship."


    She wasn¡¯t going to take the me for this.


    Now that everything wasid bare, there was no reason for her to feel guilty.


    Assistant Li was left speechless, unsure of what to say to defend Gu Qixiao.


    He could only stand by helplessly, watching Ji Yu walk away.


    Back at the dormitory, Song Xuan was still crying and insisted on going back with Gu Qixiao.


    To Gu Qixiao, her crying sounded like torture, an unbearable noise drilling into his ears.


    Assistant Li observed the situation and was at a loss for words. "President Gu, it seems Miss Ji wasn¡¯t in a good mood when she left earlier. Are you sure you¡¯re not going to check on her?"


    After all, a pursuer should prioritize the feelings of the one they¡¯re pursuing.


    As expected, the moment Gu Qixiao heard that Ji Yu was upset, he immediately shook off Song Xuan.


    "Take care of your health properly. You don¡¯t need to worry about anything else; your professor will guide you well. I have other matters to attend to¡ªI won¡¯t waste time fooling around here anymore."


    Song Xuan stared nkly at Gu Qixiao¡¯s retreating figure, unable to believe that this was what "fooling around" meant in his mind.


    This "fooling around" left her trembling uncontrobly. "Xiao, I just wanted to go home. Why do you have to treat me like this?"


    All she wanted was to return to the life they had before. But why did everything seem to change the moment Ji Yu showed up?


    It must have been Ji Yu¡¯s fault that things between them had turned out this way.


    She would have to deal with Ji Yu; otherwise, she would surely remain trapped here.


    Meanwhile, Gu Qixiao had caught up with Ji Yu.


    Even Tian had something to say about Gu Qixiao¡¯s behavior. "President Gu, if you want to pay medical expenses, you can just transfer it anytime. As for anything else, you¡¯d best not bother thinking about it."


    At least in Tian¡¯s eyes, Gu Qixiao¡¯s actions today were losing him serious points.


    Gu Qixiao rubbed his temples helplessly, still unable to figure out why Ji Yu was so mad. "I really didn¡¯t mean anything else. Could you give me some time to exin things to Yu properly?"


    "President Gu, it¡¯s not just Sister Yu¡ªeven I can¡¯t watch this anymore. You dragged Sister Yu in a rush to see your little lover¡ªdoesn¡¯t that feel like a direct stab to her heart?"


    Shouldn¡¯t that have been clear from the start?


    "Let¡¯s not forget that Sister Yu is pregnant right now. You¡¯re making her run all over the ce for you¡ªdo you really think that¡¯s okay?"


    He stared at Gu Qixiao, waiting for an exnation.


    Gu Qixiao froze for a moment, clearly caught off guard. He¡¯d been focused solely on Song Xuan¡¯s potential return home and hadpletely neglected this issue.


    "This is indeed my fault. But I was just trying my best to prevent Song Xuan from going home."


    He knew Ji Yu wouldn¡¯t like this kind of situation, so he wanted to stop it at the source. But instead, his approach seemed to make Ji Yu even more frustrated.


    "Regardless, things are what they are now. President Gu, you should stop clinging to this¡ªSister Yu doesn¡¯t like schemes like these."


    Such tactics had no value at all.


    Tian said nothing more, simply hoping that Gu Qixiao would reflect on himself.


    Gu Qixiao realized he couldn¡¯t forcibly intervene anymore. He could only sit in a corner and text Ji Yu.


    [Yu, I really didn¡¯t handle this right, but I truly don¡¯t mean anything else. Please don¡¯t misunderstand me.]


    He knew Ji Yu cared about this situation, and the mess he¡¯d created was frustrating even to himself.


    But more than anything, he wanted to reconcile with Ji Yu, so he wouldn¡¯t have to worry so much anymore.


    [I¡¯m not angry, so there¡¯s no need for an apology. I¡¯m going to be busy for a while; you don¡¯t need to waste time on me every day.]


    Everyone should have their own priorities.


    Through this ordeal, Ji Yu hade to understand one thing: she had developed feelings for Gu Qixiao. If she wanted to suppress these emotions, the only solution was to avoid him.


    "Sister Yu, don¡¯t soften up. Gu Qixiao is definitely doing this on purpose."


    "I won¡¯t." Ji Yu looked at the people standing up for her, and couldn¡¯t help but be amused.


    Sometimes when you¡¯re in the thick of things, you lose rity. Others see the situation inly, while Gu Qixiao seems to perceive it in apletely different light.


    "Sister Yu, if you¡¯re feeling upset, why don¡¯t we go out together for a change? There¡¯s a team-building eventing up¡ªwe¡¯ve been nning it for a while now. Seeing you unhappy, I thought it might be good for you to join us."


    "Forget it. If I go, you all won¡¯t have any fun. I¡¯ll spend a few days at home instead¡ªjust let me know after you¡¯re done enjoying yourselves."


    There¡¯s no need to rush certain things. She was already starting to adjust her mood, so why vent her dissatisfaction in such a way?

 Chapter 141 Emotional Fluctuations

    <h4>Chapter 141: Chapter 141 Emotional Fluctuations</h4>


    Ji Yu is someone whose emotions easily fluctuate, but now she wants to break this habit as soon as possible.


    Even though she saw Gu Qixiao waiting not far away after work, she still didn¡¯t have the intention to approach him.


    Gu Qixiao stepped forward and grabbed Ji Yu¡¯s hand. "Yu, I want to exin to you properly. Today¡¯s issue was indeed poorly considered on my part, but my true intention is to avoid being involved with Song Xuan."


    Actually, this had to do with both him and Ji Yu.


    Ji Yu disliked this kind of rtionship, and so did he.


    But now, he hadpletely messed things up.


    Ji Yu raised an eyebrow. "Don¡¯t you think your approach is a bit odd? I didn¡¯t ask you to do anything, yet you keep making wrong decisions. And do you really think Song Xuan being absent from home has no impact on you?"


    She hadn¡¯t forgotten how flustered Gu Qixiao looked earlier when he came over. Didn¡¯t that count as an impact?


    Maybe he himself didn¡¯t notice, leading to this kind of mindset.


    "It¡¯s normal for you not to sense Song Xuan¡¯s influence on you. After all, there¡¯s often a blindness when you¡¯re in the situation. But let me rify for you¡ªso long as Song Xuan is involved, this influence won¡¯t disappear."


    Such things made her feel physically ufortable.


    Without hesitation, she got in the car directly.


    She was noticeably more irritable upon returning home.


    Madam Ji, seeing Ji Yu in this state, could already guess it was about Gu Qixiao.


    "You silly girl, since you¡¯ve already said you don¡¯t want to be with him, why not go out with us for a walk? Maybe you¡¯ll forget all this once you¡¯re outside?"


    She gazed at Ji Yu lovingly, knowing that her daughter could sometimes be quite stubborn about these matters, which was why she wanted to take her out to rx.


    "Forget it. It might be because of the pregnancy, but I¡¯ve recently felt reluctant to go out."


    She just wanted to rest peacefully in her room.


    However, she did noticetely that Ji Yuanzhou seemed to have been away from home for quite a while. "What¡¯s my brother been up to recently? It¡¯s been a long time since I saw him having dinner at home."


    Speaking of Ji Yuanzhou, Madam Ji sighed. "That boy, I don¡¯t even know what¡¯s going on with him recently. Every time I call, he says he¡¯s busy."


    As parents, they couldn¡¯t rush him. They could only hope he wrapped things up quickly.


    "Tomorrow your dad and I are going out for a few days. If you have time, go to Yuanzhou¡¯s office and check on him. Don¡¯t let him only focus on work; he should at least find us a daughter-inw."


    They were also looking forward to having grandchildren.


    Ji Yu nodded and agreed to this.


    The following afternoon, she went to check on Ji Yuanzhou.


    But she wasn¡¯t sure if it was just her imagination¡ªit seemed like Ji Yuanzhou looked visibly worn-out. "Brother, are you okay?"


    She felt a bit concerned about Ji Yuanzhou¡¯s condition.


    "It¡¯s nothing. Just haven¡¯t been resting welltely. I¡¯ve been busy handling things at thepany. After a while, it¡¯ll get better."


    Ji Yu felt like something wasn¡¯t quite right, but she couldn¡¯t pinpoint it immediately. She could only sigh, "Brother, don¡¯t overwork yourself. Mom and Dad said to make time for proper rest at home. Don¡¯t let work crush you."


    Ji Yuanzhou forced a faint smile. "Alright, I understand."


    He knew what he needed to do next and wouldn¡¯t allow himself to act this way again.


    Ji Yu felt like she was missing some details, but seeing how Ji Yuanzhou refused to say anything, she decided to let it go for now.


    That evening, when talking to Feng Qinqin about this matter, she couldn¡¯t help but vent. "I don¡¯t even know what¡¯s wrong with my brothertely. Why does he seem to have so much on his mind every day?"


    Feng Qinqin paused, swallowed a piece of meat after taking a sip of water, and replied, "Yuyu, could it be possible your brother¡¯s dating someone?"


    "Now that you mention it, that could be true. But he¡¯s always busy with work at thepany¡ªis he dating someone inside the office?"


    Thinking of this possibility, Ji Yu stopped fretting. Since it wasn¡¯t anything difficult to resolve, there was no need to overthink.


    "Not necessarily. Your brother¡¯s personality is rather unusual." Feng Qinqin bit into a banana, feeling speechless about Ji Yuanzhou¡¯s situation.


    Ji Yu watched her reaction with curiosity. "Weren¡¯t you not very close with my brother before? Why are you suddenly bringing him up now?"


    "Isn¡¯t it because you¡¯re gossiping with me about it?" Feng Qinqin replied with nonchnce, showing no fear of being exposed.


    Ji Yu raised an eyebrow, feeling like something was off, but some things couldn¡¯t be unveiled quickly.


    "Speaking of this, how are thingstely between you and Uncle Feng? You¡¯re not still holding a grudge over that engagement incident, right?"


    "Don¡¯t bring it up. My dad has been constantly pressuring me to find a boyfriend. Do you think finding someone is as easy as just wanting to?" Feng Qinqin couldn¡¯t help butin about the matter.


    She mostly felt that it was just too frustrating.


    Who wouldn¡¯t find such matters exasperating?


    "I¡¯m now thinking that maybe I should just be like you¡ªskip the dad part and go straight to being a mom myself. That way my dad will probably stop interfering in my life."


    "By the way, how are things between you and Gu Qixiao?" Feng Qinqin had been busy with her own engagement issuestely and hadn¡¯t kept up with their gossip.


    "There¡¯s no way we¡¯ll end up together." Ji Yu spoke decisively, showing no intention of continuing any rtionship with Gu Qixiao. Since she already knew it would lead to a wrong oue, why keep walking the path?


    "I know there¡¯s a fundamental issue between us. So I¡¯d rather cut things off before they start¡ªit saves me the painter, doesn¡¯t it?"


    She didn¡¯t deny any feelings; she simply chose to sever the connection between them.


    Feng Qinqin was taken aback, not expecting Ji Yu to have feelings for Gu Qixiao at some point.


    "Yuyu, the premise of what you just said is that you liked Gu Qixiao before, but realized you¡¯re notpatible, so you..."


    "Yes." She had no hesitation admitting the truth, but she also firmly believed there¡¯d be no continuation of their story.


    "You don¡¯t need to be surprised or keep asking about us. Just understand that there¡¯s no future between us, and that¡¯s enough." Ji Yu¡¯s words were blunt and to the point.


    Feng Qinqin was momentarily at a loss on how toment on such a conclusion.


    "I just think you might be being too harsh on yourself. What if you end up regretting this decision?"


    She still wanted to persuade Ji Yu not to make hasty choices; otherwise, she might feel miserableter.

 Chapter 142: Better a Short Pain than a Long One

    <h4>Chapter 142: Chapter 142: Better a Short Pain than a Long One</h4>


    "Isn¡¯t there a saying? It¡¯s better to rip the band-aid off quickly than let the pain linger. I think it¡¯s fine the way I am now."


    Soon, she would have a lovely child, without the emotional torment of a rtionship. Wouldn¡¯t this be the best oue?


    Feng Qinqin suddenly felt a bit deted. "I wish I had your resolve. Maybe then I wouldn¡¯t be stuck in this torturous cycle of unrequited love."


    Her tone grew subdued as she spoke about it.


    Ji Yu looked at her, curious about who she had been pining over all this time, and why it had left her with suchplicated feelings.


    "You should think about the fact that he doesn¡¯t like you. Eventually, you¡¯ll meet someone who does. If he¡¯s not the right person for you and doesn¡¯t treat you well, it¡¯s better to cut ties altogether."


    She disliked dragging things out. Love could make someone stubborn, but only by letting go could one realize the relief that came with it.


    "I¡¯ll try. If I truly forget about him one day, I¡¯ll definitely tell you who he is."


    Hearing her say this, Ji Yu guessed that she might already know the person in question. But there was no rush¡ªthe truth would reveal itself eventually.


    "Yuyu, how I wish I could be as carefree as you."


    But what Feng Qinqin didn¡¯t know was that while Ji Yu appeared detached, Gu Qixiao was agonizing over it.


    Upon realizing Ji Yu had made up her mind to give up on him, he didn¡¯t even know how to face the situation.


    "Why does this have to happen to me?" he murmured with a helpless bitterness, although deep inside, what he really wanted was to salvage things.


    Two married friends by his side couldn¡¯t quite grasp his obsession. "Why are you so fixated on one person? If you can¡¯t be together, it just means she isn¡¯t the right one for you."


    "But I only like her. Just her."


    Gu Qixiao himself couldn¡¯t pinpoint when his feelings for Ji Yu had started to seep into his very bones.


    He couldn¡¯t understand how someone could so swiftly pierce through the defenses of his heart. Yet, every moment reminded him: he liked Ji Yu. He couldn¡¯t live without Ji Yu.


    "Man, seems like Mr. Gu is well and truly smitten this time," Li Jingfeng remarked, growing curious about Ji Yu himself. What kind of person could enchant someone like Gu Qixiao so deeply?


    Gu Qixiao downed one drink after another until he was visibly dazed. Li Jingfeng, chuckling mischievously, said, "Give us the phone number of the girl you like, and we¡¯ll call her for you. Let¡¯s find out why on earth she doesn¡¯t like you."


    And somehow, whether due to genuine inebriation or sheer desperation, Gu Qixiao actuallyplied.


    When the call connected, Ji Yu was still having dinner with Feng Qinqin. "Hello, who¡¯s this and what do you need?"


    Her cool voice traveled through the line and into Gu Qixiao¡¯s ears, making him suddenly falter.


    But before he could hang up, Li Jingfeng interjected, "Miss Ji, I¡¯m curious¡ªwhy don¡¯t you like Gu Qixiao? Do you think he doesn¡¯t like you enough?"


    "You guys must be awfully free," Ji Yu replied, quickly piecing together what was happening on the other side.


    She found the whole thing rather distasteful. "I don¡¯t think I owe you any exnations. Whatever is between Gu Qixiao and me is not up for discussion with anyone else."


    She was about to end the call when Li Jingfeng hastily added, "You¡¯ve misunderstood, Miss Ji. That¡¯s not what we meant. Our Mr. Gu is crazy about you and just wants to know what, if anything, he¡¯s done wrong. Even when marking someone for death, don¡¯t the charges need to be spelled out?"


    They genuinely wanted Gu Qixiao to be happy, but the situation was far from promising. This was their clumsy attempt at getting to the bottom of it.


    But Ji Yu had no clue how to respond. "I¡¯m not obligated to address that question, and I sincerely hope you¡¯ll refrain from pulling such juvenile stunts again."


    With that, Ji Yu ended the call.


    Listening to the disconnected beeps from the other end, Li Jingfeng patted Gu Qixiao on the shoulder. "Honestly, I think you¡¯re out of luck this time. Maybe it¡¯s better to move on¡ªyou¡¯ll realize you don¡¯t even like her after a while."


    Li Jingfeng spoke from experience. He knew most women would be repelled by antics like this.


    "I¡¯m going home." Gu Qixiao no longer felt like staying to drink, and moving on was hardly a simple task for him.


    "Don¡¯t bother trying to persuade me. When I¡¯ve made a decision, I never go back on it."


    His feelings would persist for a lifetime.


    The others exchanged confused nces behind him.


    "Honestly, this whole thing is such a headache. I used to think he¡¯d end up with Song Xuan."


    "Well, you¡¯ve got to admit, Mr. Gu knows what he wants. That¡¯s why he didn¡¯t end up with Song Xuan."


    No matter what they said or tried, it seemed their efforts to help Gu Qixiao amounted to little.


    Meanwhile, after ending the call, Ji Yu frowned. She couldn¡¯t quite wrap her head around why things had unfolded this way.


    "Yuyu, are Gu Qixiao¡¯s people harassing you? I¡¯ll give them a piece of my mind," Feng Qinqin offered, indignant on Ji Yu¡¯s behalf.


    Ji Yu sighed helplessly. "It¡¯s not that serious. From the looks of it, Gu Qixiao must¡¯ve turned to drinking to drown his sorrows."


    But even so, alcohol solved nothing. At best, it offered a temporary escape.


    She tried not to dwell on Gu Qixiao, but Feng Qinqin could see that she seemed a bit distracted.


    "Yuyu, I think you¡¯re torturing yourself. If you like him, then just be with him openly. If he does something wrongter, then talk about breaking up."


    Feng Qinqin couldn¡¯t bear to see Ji Yu upset.


    Ji Yu arched an eyebrow, ustomed to her approach. "I still prefer dealing with things my way."


    Cutting the problem off at its root was better for both of them.


    At least then, neither she nor Gu Qixiao would have to endure the awkwardnesster on.


    "You, of all people, haven¡¯t even sorted out your own love life, and you¡¯re already giving advice about mine."


    The remark left Feng Qinqin momentarily speechless. She had to admit, maybe she was being a bit too nosy.


    Compared to Gu Qixiao, she had achieved even less. At least Gu Qixiao would leave an indelible mark on Ji Yu¡¯s heart. She had nothing at all.


    "Yuyu, do you think an unreciprocated love is worth continuing?"


    She was willing to give her all, but so far, she had received nothing in return. Was that really a good thing?


    "Are you talking about a secret crush?"


    "No... he did agree to be with me, but I think he¡¯s regretting it now. He¡¯s so cold to me." She looked heartbroken as she spoke, unsure how to resolve it once and for all.


    "Whenever I want to have a proper conversation with him, it¡¯s impossible. He rarely replies to my messages, and it¡¯s like I don¡¯t even exist."

 Chapter 143: Let Go If It’s Not Suitable

    <h4>Chapter 143: Chapter 143: Let Go If It¡¯s Not Suitable</h4>


    "Based on what you¡¯re saying, it seems like you two might not be suitable for each other. There¡¯s no need to keep thinking about him."


    Ji Yu absolutely hated this kind of behavior.


    But Feng Qinqin refused to let it go. "I went through so much to find him. I liked him the moment I saw him, and I really wanted to have a proper talk with him. So why did things turn out like this?"


    She didn¡¯t do anything wrong, so why was she treated this way?


    Situations like this are bound to make one feel utterly hopeless.


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t know how tofort Feng Qinqin, but she knew this wasn¡¯t Feng Qinqin¡¯s fault. "Don¡¯t me yourself. This is his problem. If staying with him only makes you miserable, then stop torturing yourself like this."


    These distressing feelings are surely hard to bear.


    Ji Yu understood what her friend was feeling, and this was the only way she could think of to deal with it.


    Feng Qinqin said nothing more, and as she left, an overwhelming sense of confusion swept over her.


    Meanwhile, Ji Yu received a phone call from Gu Qixiao.


    She was utterly exasperated, but still answered. "Gu Qixiao, I don¡¯t want to be part of these stupid games of yours, so can you please stop talking to me?"


    She couldn¡¯t help but feel this whole situation was ridiculous. Was discussing it briefly with a friend or venting to someone supposed to magically solve everything?


    "Gu Qixiao, we¡¯re not kids anymore. You know what I¡¯m like. Why bother doing this?"


    Once it¡¯s clear you won¡¯t continue liking someone, why drag things out in this way?


    Ji Yu felt genuinely exhausted.


    Gu Qixiao remained silent, merely listening as Ji Yu spoke.


    "If you don¡¯t speak, I¡¯m hanging up. I don¡¯t want to keep arguing with you. I¡¯m not exactly a rational person, so don¡¯t provoke me with things like this in the future."


    She didn¡¯t want to hurt Gu Qixiao.


    Listening to Ji Yu¡¯s voice, Gu Qixiao could sense her mood wasn¡¯t good at all, and his heart ached deeply.


    "If I¡¯ve truly been that terrible, then maybe I do deserve being ignored by you."


    Ji Yu couldn¡¯t understand why Gu Qixiao would say something like that, but she had a nagging feeling he seemed to be out somewhere alone.


    "Are you drunk and still not home?"


    He didn¡¯t answer her question, instead asking, "Was I really so awful to you that you couldn¡¯t feel even the slightest spark of emotion?"


    Back when they were in the orphanage, he always thought at least the connection they shared was good. So why did things feel so different now?


    "Gu Qixiao, when problems outweigh affection, it¡¯s time to let go. I wasn¡¯t trying to hurt you¡ªyou¡¯re a good person. But the problem is, we just aren¡¯tpatible."


    Being honest about these things could be painful.


    But this time, Ji Yu was unflinchingly straightforward. She wasn¡¯t trying to persuade Gu Qixiao, just trying to make him see the truth.


    Gu Qixiao felt indescribably heartbroken, yet he couldn¡¯t deny Ji Yu¡¯s words made a certain kind of sense.


    "What you¡¯re saying is absolutely logical, but why can¡¯t I bring myself to ept it?"


    Even as he said this, his heart was heavy.


    "Gu Qixiao, people can¡¯t face life with this attitude forever. Don¡¯t you think our rtionship is better suited to friendship than romance?"


    They could share some ambiguous dynamics and even n for the child¡¯s future, but blindly staying together would never work.


    "I¡¯m touched by all you¡¯ve done, but some things require rity and calm reflection before they can be understood. You might need some time to cool off."


    She was willing to give Gu Qixiao time to think.


    But this time, Gu Qixiao was unusually obstinate¡ªperhaps influenced by the alcohol. His stubbornness was striking. "Ji Yu, I truly care about you. I want to be with you. There¡¯s nothing ambiguous going on between me and Song Xuan."


    He repeated this over and over.


    Ji Yu could faintly hear the sound of car horns from his end of the line and realized he probably wasn¡¯t thinking clearly from the drinking.


    "Gu Qixiao, go home. It¡¯s dangerous out there."


    She didn¡¯t forget to contact Assistant Li to locate him.


    Assistant Li soon arrived at the hotel entrance and saw Gu Qixiao in a state he¡¯d never witnessed before.


    Sitting there, his eyes reddened, he looked as though he¡¯d lost something very precious.


    "President Gu, Miss Ji just called and asked me to take you home. Please don¡¯t be upset¡ªMiss Ji must have feelings for you."


    "Really?" Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t know how to prove Ji Yu¡¯s sincerity.


    He only knew Ji Yu was likely disappointed in him; this time, he truly messed things up.


    "President Gu, you¡¯ve had too much to drink. If you stay here, Miss Ji will worry. She¡¯s pregnant¡ªdo you want her toe and look for you herself?"


    These words seemed to snap Gu Qixiao out of it.


    With some effort, he stood up. "Fine, I¡¯ll go home."


    He couldn¡¯t let Ji Yu worry. Maybe she was still waiting for news of him getting home.


    He walked unsteadily, evidently having had quite a bit to drink.


    Assistant Li couldn¡¯t help feeling helpless. He didn¡¯t understand why their president¡¯s love life had to be soplicated. The two of them liked each other, yet somehow ended up like this¡ªit seemed only their president could manage that.


    "President Gu, should I take you to the vi or...?"


    "To the vi." He couldn¡¯t return to the old mansion in this drunken state.


    For once, he was cooperative. When he got home, he even sent Ji Yu a photo.


    Looking at Gu Qixiao¡¯s dazed expression, Ji Yu thought he was somewhat endearing.


    But even so, their rtionship couldn¡¯t progress any further.


    It seemed they were destined to have deep feelings but shallow fate.


    [Get some rest. Don¡¯t drink again because of me¡ªit¡¯s unfair to you.]


    After sending the message, she drifted off to sleep,pletely unaware that Gu Qixiao spent the entire night staring at it, unable to sleep.


    He wasn¡¯t even sure if he could be considered drunk. All he knew was that Ji Yu was incredibly important to him, and he couldn¡¯t simply let go.


    The next morning, Assistant Li noticed how haggard Gu Qixiao looked and was genuinely worried about his health. "President Gu, are you feeling unwell? If you¡¯re sick, you should skip work and rest."


    Seeing how worn out Gu Qixiao was, Assistant Li even hoped he¡¯d take a break instead of pushing himself.


    But Gu Qixiao shook his head. "It¡¯s fine. Let¡¯s go to the office. I¡¯m okay."

 Chapter 144 Adjusting Emotions

    <h4>Chapter 144: Chapter 144 Adjusting Emotions</h4>


    He also needed to adjust his emotions properly.


    In the following days, Gu Qixiao did not mention Ji Yu again, but it seemed like no matter what he did, Ji Yu¡¯s shadow was there.


    "President Gu, President Lin has arrived, do you think..."


    "Let¡¯s go directly to the meeting room to talk." Gu Qixiao rubbed his slightly sore temples, knowing that some things couldn¡¯t be easily dismissed.


    Lin Chujian had long been waiting in the meeting room and was somewhat surprised to see Gu Qixiao looking so haggard, "Howe after just a few months, you look so worn out. Did something happen between you and Song Xuan?"


    She looked at Gu Qixiao, always feeling that there was some gossip involved.


    Gu Qixiao was helpless, knowing that it¡¯s not always good to discuss such matters with someone too familiar. Isn¡¯t this how things got messed up?


    "I¡¯m fine, it¡¯s just that I haven¡¯t been sleeping well recently. Song Xuan has been sent to school by me, so no need to worry about her."


    Hearing that he¡¯d sent Song Xuan away, she was clearly surprised, "You finally came to your senses, realized how excessive this was for you?"


    In her eyes, Song Xuan was nothing but neurotic.


    "I¡¯ve told you long before that Song Xuan staying by your side would be trouble sooner orter. This oue is actually good."


    "Let¡¯s not talk about this. I heard there are some problems with the cooperation this time?" Gu Qixiao was more inclined to discuss work matters.


    Thinking of Song Xuan would subconsciously make him think of Ji Yu.


    These matters for him were like a loop, very difficult to walk out from.


    Lin Chujian didn¡¯t intend to talk about it anymore, "There are indeed some problems. You know my grandpa has been acting up recently, wanting to find his daughter every day. I don¡¯t even know when he lost a daughter."


    She¡¯s always been indifferent about family ties, and looking at this situation, she does feel a bit helpless.


    "The old man isn¡¯t young anymore. If he wants to find the child that was lost back then, there¡¯s no need to stop him."


    He could really understand the old man¡¯s thoughts.


    "But what does the old man¡¯s search for his child have to do with our cooperation?"


    Speaking of this, Lin Chujian was also very helpless, "He might not trust anythingtely, so he¡¯s trying every way to take back our authority and wants to personallye here to find out. Who knows what¡¯s going on."


    She was really numb to this matter and didn¡¯t know when this legendary aunt would be found.


    If she can¡¯t be found forever, does she have to continue to endure such grievances?


    "The Lin family old man is also here?"


    "He¡¯s here. I wanted to discuss with you today if you¡¯d like to meet the old man personally. He should still have some trust in you." Lin Chujian didn¡¯t want to be so troublesome, but some things must be solved in person.


    "Okay." Gu Qixiao did not refuse.


    Everyone was understanding of each other.


    However, Gu Qixiao did not expect to meet a familiar person at the Lin family.


    "What¡¯s wrong with you?" Lin Chujian saw him stop and was a bit confused.


    "The person your old man mentioned can¡¯t be this one in the photo, right?" He couldn¡¯t imagine, but when he thought of Ji Yu suffering a lot before, without knowing who her rtives were, it seemed not so far-fetched.


    "You can¡¯t mean that you¡¯ve met my little aunt, right? To be honest, we¡¯ve always been curious if such a person really exists because this little aunt looks too much like my grandma."


    The old man of the Lin family was also stimted by the death of his wife, which is why he had such a reaction.


    "I have seen her, but maybe the age doesn¡¯t match. We should first ask the old man what¡¯s going on."


    He also wanted to know how Ji Yu ended up being abandoned.


    The old man of the Lin family was very familiar with Gu Qixiao and knew it would be about the cooperation, "Little Gu, I definitely trust our cooperation, but there are some issues recently, so I can¡¯t personally handle thepany¡¯s business, and hence there¡¯s a dy."


    "I can understand that the old man misses his daughter, but I have some impressions of this youngdy, though the age might not match." He was contemting whether to make things clear to the old man.


    The old man of the Lin family was visibly excited, "You said you met my daughter?"


    His hands were trembling, showing how much he cared about this matter.


    Gu Qixiao was helpless, "Please don¡¯t get excited. Although the photo is exactly the same, her age doesn¡¯t match."


    "Regardless of whether the age matches or not, bring her to me for a look. There might be some connection." The old man had already thought about giving up and now felt excited seeing the simrity.


    Thinking of Ji Yu¡¯s previous attitude, Gu Qixiao wasn¡¯t sure if she woulde.


    "I¡¯ll try, but she¡¯s a bit stubborn. Without substantial evidence she won¡¯t believe you are her rtives."


    This matter was especially important to Ji Yu, and it would take some time to recognize the past events.


    "We can do a DNA test, and we surely won¡¯t wrong her afterward."


    Seeing the conversation had reached such a point, Gu Qixiao had no other choice but to ask Ji Yu what she really thought.


    After not seeing her for a long time, Ji Yu¡¯s mood had improved a lot.


    "What do you need from me?"


    Gu Qixiao pondered repeatedly for a moment before speaking, "I wanted to talk to you about your background. I don¡¯t know if you¡¯re aware of your past, but now the old man of the Lin family has a photo that looks very simr to you."


    Ji Yu seemed a bit surprised, not expecting Gu Qixiao to approach her for this reason.


    Regarding her background, she had long given up, but hearing Gu Qixiao bring it up once more, she felt somewhat emotional.


    "I don¡¯t need to know anything about my background; I am living very well now. I don¡¯t want to know who my mother was. I already have a mother and don¡¯t need another one."


    She was very grateful to the Ji family and felt a strong sense of belonging. It was impossible for her to casually acknowledge other rtives.


    Gu Qixiao had actually already guessed Ji Yu would say that, "Don¡¯t you feel any regret? What if it wasn¡¯t intentional for them to abandon you?"


    "Whether it was intentional or not is no longer important. What matters is my life doesn¡¯t require their involvement. I¡¯m fine this way."


    She wasn¡¯t someone who valued blood rtions much, as long as someone was good to her, she¡¯d cherish them. The past really held no significance to her.


    "Please don¡¯t reveal my information, I don¡¯t need more rtives."

 Chapter 145: No Need

    <h4>Chapter 145: Chapter 145: No Need</h4>


    For Ji Yu, such family members were entirely superfluous.


    Why didn¡¯t theye looking for her from the very beginning?


    Why did they have to show up now, when she no longer needed anything from them? Is it because they¡¯ve finally found the time to remember someone like her?


    Perhaps they themselves don¡¯t want to talk about this either.


    "Whatever the reason, since things have alreadye to this point, I don¡¯t need to dwell on it anymore. Just stop bringing these inexplicable matters to me."


    She didn¡¯t like situations like this.


    And could these people really be unaware of the feelings inside her heart?


    Perhaps they already knew it¡¯d be impossible to find her now.


    Gu Qixiao was at a loss for words. "Yu, I don¡¯t mean to push you to do anything. I just don¡¯t want you to keep feeling so alone."


    "I¡¯ve never been alone. My adoptive parents have treated me well. At least now, I don¡¯t need the so-called concern of certain rtives."


    She knew the Ji family parents were still off traveling, utterly absorbed in their happiness.


    If they were to learn of this situation, they¡¯d undoubtedlye rushing back without hesitation.


    "Alright then, could you do me a favor and pass the message along to them for me?"


    As Ji Yu finished speaking, she hung up the phone.


    Following her wishes, Gu Qixiao conveyed all of Ji Yu¡¯s thoughts to Old Master Lin.


    "She¡¯s actually doing quite well now. She doesn¡¯t need more people disturbing her life, Old Master Lin. It¡¯s time to let go."


    One simply can¡¯t keep seeking a child who no longer ns to return home.


    Such actions only end up hurting everyone involved.


    Old Master Lin didn¡¯t seem to have anticipated this oue. "How did ite to this? Why is this child¡¯s temper so much like myte wife¡¯s?"


    As he spoke of the situation, a faint glimmer of tears appeared in his eyes, clearly showing how deeply affected he was by the matter.


    Still, Gu Qixiao had no choice but to say, "I respect her decision, so there¡¯s not much more I can add. I just hope you won¡¯t keep agonizing over this."


    He couldn¡¯t expose Ji Yu¡¯s life situation, but the Old Master hadn¡¯t yet grasped the full picture and was unwilling to let Gu Qixiao leave just yet.


    "Hold on a moment. Gu, since we¡¯re discussing a cooperation deal, let¡¯s make sure we talk it through properly."


    His manner toward Gu Qixiao became warmer, clearly aiming to extract more information through this interaction.


    Gu Qixiao felt helpless. Once inside the study, he spoke bluntly to Old Master Lin. "Don¡¯t expect to get any information from me. She¡¯s someone I care deeply about, and I would never use her unwillingness as a bargaining chip."


    There were already so many misunderstandings between them, and adding unnecessaryplications now wouldn¡¯t help matters.


    Still, Gu Qixiao couldn¡¯t be entirely sure whether Ji Yu truly intended to sever all ties.


    Such decisions, after all, were incredibly hard to let go of.


    "I¡¯m not forcing you to say anything. I just want to know how this child is doing now."


    He was curious about Ji Yu¡¯s life and wanted to hear what Gu Qixiao had to say about her.


    "She¡¯s doing very well. Her adoptive parents care deeply for her, she has a stable job, and she¡¯s quite renowned in her own field at Lingyun."


    Reflecting on Ji Yu¡¯s past, Gu Qixiao couldn¡¯t help but feel that everything she¡¯d aplished had been immensely difficult.


    All her achievements had been the result of her own hard work, entirely through her own effort.


    "That¡¯s good to hear, very good." Old Master Lin still hoped to learn more, but he also feared hearing something he wouldn¡¯t want to know.


    "Don¡¯t overthink it too much. There¡¯s a chance you may meet her one day after all."


    You never know where life might lead.


    Now that he¡¯d traveled all the way here, many things suddenly felt far more possible.


    "Let¡¯s hope so. I understand if you¡¯re unwilling to divulge anything, but I ask that you take care of this child. If anything happens in the future, you can reach out to me."


    His feelings toward Ji Yu were steeped in guilt.


    Gu Qixiao still couldn¡¯t understand why they¡¯d onlye to seek her out now, but the situation clearly felt distant and unfamiliar, making it hard to probe further.


    The silver lining was that this particr cooperation deal had gone remarkably smoothly.


    Afterward, Gu Qixiao decided to visit Ji Yu and have a proper conversation with her.


    "Why are you here?" Ji Yu¡¯s eyes showed a hint of surprise upon seeing him. She was mostly curious about his sudden, unexined arrival.


    "I wanted to ask whether you¡¯d want to learn more about your rtives. I don¡¯t mean to pressure you into reconnecting with them, but I think it might be better for you to at least understand the situation."


    Ji Yu raised her eyebrows, clearly unimpressed by Gu Qixiao¡¯s suggestion. "There¡¯s no need. I¡¯ve already decided not to go back, and I certainly won¡¯t. So please don¡¯t try to persuade me using methods like this."


    She wasn¡¯t interested in revisiting past memories.


    Besides, the Ji family wasn¡¯t bad in any way.


    At least, she already considered this ce her true home and didn¡¯t feel the need to think further.


    While Gu Qixiao wanted to talk to Ji Yu more, she seemed utterly disinterested in the matter.


    "The Lin family is currently coborating with me. They¡¯ll likely be around for a while. If you ever want to meet them, you can contact me anytime."


    "We¡¯ll see." Ji Yu soundedpletely indifferent.


    Her attitude toward Gu Qixiao had visibly grown colder as well.


    "Yu, even if you refuse to meet me, couldn¡¯t you at least talk to me a little more? The way you¡¯re treating me makes me feel like our rtionship has already reached its end."


    He kept trying, but Ji Yu seemed endlessly evasive.


    "No matter what happens, our rtionship can never truly end. As things stand now, once my child is born, we¡¯ll still have contact because of that."


    Her emotions toward the child within her were deeply conflicted, but since she¡¯d decided to keep it, she was determined to take responsibility.


    "My child is very important to me. I¡¯ll give them aplete childhood. Even if we aren¡¯t together, that goal can still be achieved."


    For her, some things didn¡¯t require excessive validation or exnation. At the very least, what Gu Qixiao was saying now held no meaning for her.


    Gu Qixiao found himself tongue-tied, likely for the first time facing a situation so confounding that he didn¡¯t know how to fix it.


    "Yu, I know you must hate me, but I¡¯m still waiting¡ªwaiting for the day you¡¯re willing to sit down and truly talk to me."


    But that day seemed increasingly unlikely.


    "We¡¯ll see. If there¡¯s nothing else, you should leave now. Besides, don¡¯t go getting drunk and causing a scene by the roadside again. What am I supposed to do if I decide I don¡¯t want to answer your calls?"


    She still remembered how Gu Qixiao had acted after getting drunk and hoped he¡¯d stop being so stubborn. Stubbornness didn¡¯t always lead to good oues.

 Chapter 146 Discovery

    <h4>Chapter 146: Chapter 146 Discovery</h4>


    Gu Qixiao¡¯s heart stirred slightly. He realized that Ji Yu still paid attention to his matters.


    But the attention between them seemed to be just this little bit, and even if he wanted to struggle, it would take quite a lot of time.


    "Since you still don¡¯t want to see me, I¡¯ll head back first. I won¡¯t do anything stupid like this again, but you have to promise me: no matter what happens, remember to contact me."


    Ji Yu remained silent for a moment before finally nodding.


    However, Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t expect that when he stepped outside, he would see Lin Chujian waiting by the door.


    She looked at the sorrow on Gu Qixiao¡¯s face with a half-smile, seemingly having gained some understanding of the situation.


    "So, the woman inside is the one you said looks a lot like my aunt, right? I only caught a glimpse of her side profile just now, but even from that, I can tell¡ªthey do look very simr."


    She was quite curious about such matters.


    However, since Ji Yu didn¡¯t want toe back, there was no way she would force her.


    "She doesn¡¯t want to return. You people should stop disrupting her life."


    Gu Qixiao wanted to ensure Ji Yu wouldn¡¯t be mistreated by them.


    "Rx, I wouldn¡¯t stoop to something like that. Plus, the old man will probably investigate on his own. She¡¯s considered somewhat well-known, isn¡¯t she? Even without you or me saying anything, she¡¯s bound to be exposed sooner orter."


    She had always believed this matter was only a matter of time before it resolved itself.


    Still, this incident had put them in a somewhat awkward bind.


    "Don¡¯t tell me you have feelings for this woman? Liking that crazy Song Xuan wasn¡¯t enough for you¡ªnow you¡¯re falling for her too?"


    Her tone carried obvious disdain, as if she thought Ji Yu was entirely unworthy of Gu Qixiao.


    "This is none of your business. And as for Song Xuan, there¡¯s nothing between us like what you¡¯re imagining."


    It seemed like everyone at the ball was aware of whatever had happened with Song Xuan, and it was no wonder Ji Yu would mind.


    He started to deeply reflect on himself, bing more convinced that his recent actions were truly disastrous.


    "You¡¯re actingpletely lovestruck. Don¡¯t tell me you¡¯d actually do something stupid for this girl."


    Lin Chujian, seeing the expression on Gu Qixiao¡¯s face, was curious about what he might do next.


    "You don¡¯t need to meddle in my affairs. Whatever is between me and her is our problem. If you interfere, don¡¯t me me for being rude."


    This was the first time Gu Qixiao was openly cold to her. Lin Chujian felt a little bitter about it, but knowing how upromising he could be at times, she didn¡¯t press further. She turned and left the Ji family residence.


    Still, she certainly wasn¡¯t nning to let this go easily. She simply sent Ji Yu an email, inviting her to meet.


    When Ji Yu saw the message, she initially thought it was from a client and didn¡¯t have much of a reaction.


    It wasn¡¯t until they met that she discovered the one seeking her out was Lin Chujian.


    "What can I do for you, Miss?"


    Her expression was calm, as if she wasn¡¯t the least bit afraid of Lin Chujian trying to stir trouble.


    "Miss Ji, let¡¯s get acquainted. My surname is Lin, and my name is Lin Chujian. I might be your rtive."


    When she brought up this matter, her expression carried a trace of mockery. Clearly, she didn¡¯t like the idea either. But some things really were ironic. After all, who wouldn¡¯t be stunned to suddenly discover, after so many years, that they had an additional aunt?


    "Sorry, but you should know my surname is Ji. How could I possibly be rted to someone surnamed Lin? If you¡¯re worried I¡¯ll cause any trouble, there¡¯s really no need."


    Such things were simply impossible for her to entertain.


    Ji Yu had her own pride. She wasn¡¯t about to easily believe the words of so-called rtives.


    "Is that so? But from the way you look, it seems like you do want toe back. Whether or not you¡¯re part of our family is one thing; however, based on your rtionship with Gu Qixiao alone, don¡¯t think you¡¯ll be able to get past me."


    So, it turned out to be yet another one of Gu Qixiao¡¯s romantic entanglements.


    Truth be told, Ji Yu hadn¡¯t expected her to show up here either.


    "Then you must be mistaken. I have no intention of going to your family. I have my own home. As for my rtionship with Gu Qixiao, can¡¯t you tell what it is?"


    She had already decisively chosen to distance herself before, knowing there would be plenty more trouble in the future.


    Now, it was unfolding exactly as she predicted. Yet these problems seemed determined not to let her go just like that.


    "If you have something to say, just be direct. Or, if you¡¯re interested in Gu Qixiao, why not confess to him directly? Whye to me seeking a sense of presence?"


    She had no patience for such things.


    The current situation was nothing but torment for her.


    "I just want to warn you: don¡¯t think you have a chance to climb the socialdder. And don¡¯t even dream about returning to the Lin family."


    "Even dogs can understand human words, right? You¡¯re here biting at me like this¡ªdid I ever do anything to you?" Ji Yu was naturally impatient, and hearing this repetitive nonsense only annoyed her further.


    Besides, Gu Qixiao¡¯s matters had little to do with her in the first ce. Wasn¡¯t this just pestering for no reason?


    "What do you mean?" Lin Chujian¡¯s face darkened, clearly upset by Ji Yu¡¯s remarkparing her to a dog.


    "I said you¡¯re a dog," Ji Yu stated inly.


    "With intelligence like yours, don¡¯t bother ying games. Honestly, I don¡¯t even care to argue about this¡ªit¡¯s not worth it."


    She stood up to leave but was blocked by Lin Chujian. "So you insult me and think you can just walk away?"


    "What, should I stay and insult you more? If you enjoy being scolded, that¡¯s fine by me, but seriously, don¡¯t you find your behavior a bit disgraceful?"


    It was as if Lin Chujian was implying she couldn¡¯t survive without clinging to Gu Qixiao.


    "And for the record, your family¡¯s business has nothing to do with me. I won¡¯t be going back. Returning to your family would mean stepping into an unfamiliar ce."


    Given that, why not just stay peacefully with the Ji family?


    Lin Chujian was already hostile toward Ji Yu, and upon hearing this, her anger red. She raised her hand, ready to strike Ji Yu across the face. But before she could, someone intercepted her.


    "Brother? What are you doing here?" Ji Yu was surprised.


    She had intended to handle this herself, but seeing Ji Yuanzhou here now gave her much relief.


    "I was nearby for a meeting and heard your voice, so I came to check." Fortunately, he arrived in time; otherwise, that p would havended on Ji Yu¡¯s face.


    He red at the person in front of him with a hostile expression. "Who do you think you are, daring to strike my sister?"


    Though he could dismiss other matters, if anyone tried to harm Ji Yu, he would be the first to stand up for her.


    Ji Yu was also baffled, unable toprehend what Lin Chujian was thinking¡ªhow could someone behave this way?


    "What if I hit her? What business is it of yours? After all, aren¡¯t you just an imposter too?"

 Chapter 147: The Fake Item

    <h4>Chapter 147: Chapter 147: The Fake Item</h4>


    She knew that with Ji Yu¡¯s looks, there was absolutely no way to escape.


    She simply added Ji Yuanzhou into the scolding as well.


    Ji Yu looked at the scene in front of her and found it incredibly amusing. She really couldn¡¯t figure out where this woman got such nerve, casually using someone else of being a fraud.


    "Whether or not I¡¯m a fraud has nothing to do with you. My brother will always be my brother."


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t like to argue with people like her, so she decided to drag Ji Yuanzhou and leave.


    Ji Yuanzhou, however, knew there must be more to this and waited for Ji Yu to exin on their way back.


    "Brother, why are you looking at me like that?"


    "What else can I do? You little troublemaker, you didn¡¯t even bother to exin things to me properly." He sighed in exasperation.


    He didn¡¯t know how to judge the situation. It was easy to talk about who was right or wrong, but his bias would always favor Ji Yu.


    "The main issue is still my background. I don¡¯t even know why they¡¯re looking for me, but I really don¡¯t want to go back."


    Going back to such a family would only lead to endless scheming. She had her own life now and didn¡¯t need to disrupt her rules because of those people.


    "That girl is your rtive?" Ji Yuanzhou was a bit surprised, but more so puzzled. If they were family, why was the attitude like this?


    "As much as I hate to admit it, yes, she¡¯s technically my rtive. I¡¯m not sure if it¡¯s true or not, but judging by their attitudes, I¡¯d say it¡¯s probably close enough."


    She frowned in distress¡ªclearly, she didn¡¯t want things to continue down this path.


    Ji Yuanzhou immediately understood. Ji Yu¡¯s stance on this matter had already made it clear she wouldn¡¯t go back.


    "If you don¡¯t want to go back, then don¡¯t. Mom and Dad wouldn¡¯t let you go back to suffer either."


    He patted Ji Yu¡¯s head, hoping to ease her thoughts.


    "No matter what, whether you acknowledge them or not, we will always be family."


    The love her family had given her was something Ji Yu would never forget in her lifetime, which was why she struggled to figure out the best way to deal with this.


    "Yu, you don¡¯t owe anyone anything. Just now, that girl¡¯s attitude already told us that family doesn¡¯t entirely wee you either."


    He hoped Ji Yu wouldn¡¯t get hurt in the future.


    Ji Yu let out a long sigh. "Honestly, things are prettyplicated. ording to Gu Qixiao, they all want me to go back, but he underestimates human nature."


    If she went back, she¡¯d have to deal with inheritance disputes. With such a prize on the table, how could they possibly let her, aplete stranger to them, take it so easily?


    So there was no way they truly weed her return.


    "Brother, I¡¯m so tired. I don¡¯t want to fight over any of this, but why do they keep holding on to me?"


    She didn¡¯t want to deal with it, yet the Lin family¡¯s matters kept finding her.


    Ji Yuanzhou looked at Ji Yu¡¯s unhappy expression and couldn¡¯t help but feel concerned about her. "Yu, take a good rest. Even if those people don¡¯t have you, they¡¯d stille up with trouble. You¡¯re better off focusing on yourself."


    He had always wholeheartedly stood on Ji Yu¡¯s side.


    He was also well aware that Ji Yu already had someone she liked but had been avoiding it all along.


    "Brother, you¡¯re lecturing me, but haven¡¯t you been dealing with unresolved stuff yourselftely? Why don¡¯t you share it with me? Maybe I can help?"


    She genuinely wanted to lend a hand.


    But Ji Yuanzhou¡¯s feelings wereplicated right now. He wasn¡¯t sure whether he should tell Ji Yu or not. "I¡¯m still sorting out my own emotions. Once there¡¯s any real progress, I¡¯ll definitely let you know."


    He had already shifted entirely into the role of her protective brother and simply wanted Ji Yu to find happiness. Yet the current situation wasn¡¯t quite going the way he had hoped.


    "Yu, being overly stubborn sometimes only drives people further away. If you truly didn¡¯t care for Gu Qixiao, you wouldn¡¯t have gone this far. Don¡¯t be so hard-headed."


    "We¡¯ll see." Ji Yu smiled faintly.


    Her mind had long been made up about how to handle things.


    Not many people could affect her emotions¡ªwhoever could, though, would have to genuinely care for her, or else she¡¯d inevitably end up suffering.


    "Speaking of, today¡¯s situation also has something to do with Gu Qixiao. I don¡¯t even know why he attracts so many trashy women."


    Shouldn¡¯t this kind of thing be about individual capability?


    His attitude was downright infuriating.


    Ji Yuanzhou frowned. "If that¡¯s the case, let Gu Qixiao handle it. Don¡¯t get involved. If he can¡¯t even handle this, then he¡¯s definitely not suitable for you."


    He already had issues with Gu Qixiao. Hearing that the Lin family people were also connected to him only made him more against their connection.


    Ji Yu couldn¡¯t help but chuckle. "Brother, you really are quick to conclusions."


    But to her, this reaction was entirely in character.


    "Alright, brother, stop dwelling on this. Take care of yourself¡ªyou¡¯ve got dark circles under your eyes."


    Ji Yuanzhou rubbed at his eyes, uncertain of how to respond to Ji Yu at that moment.


    "Goodnight."


    They each went back to their rooms for rest, intending to ignore the Lin family matters for the time being.


    Meanwhile, Gu Qixiao had already received word about Lin Chujian causing trouble for Ji Yu, and his face was dark with displeasure.


    He went straight to the bar to find Lin Chujian and dragged her out.


    "Lin Chujian, what the hell are you trying to do? Why did you go after Ji Yu?"


    His face was grim.


    This was the first time they¡¯d ever fallen out like this since they started working together.


    Lin Chujian parted her lips, seemingly indifferent. "She tattled to you? Honestly, I look down on such underhanded tactics. Doesn¡¯t she already have people protecting her? Why does she still run to you?"


    She didn¡¯t deny it¡ªwhat¡¯s done is done; why bother pretending?


    Gu Qixiao¡¯s expression turned even colder. "Since you know I¡¯m fond of her, then don¡¯t go looking for trouble with her. I don¡¯t care what your motives are¡ªif you mess with her again, I absolutely won¡¯t let it slide."


    His feelings for Ji Yu made him care deeply about matters like this.


    "Oh, stop pretending you¡¯re so passionately in love. For all you know, she¡¯s just using you. Running to you every time something happens doesn¡¯t exactly scream love."


    Her words cut at Gu Qixiao like a knife. He had long known Ji Yu didn¡¯t want to be with him, but love often defies all reason.


    "What happens between us is none of your business. Even if I¡¯m being used, I¡¯m willing to ept it. It has nothing to do with you."


    He dismissed her barbs without care.

 Chapter 148 Don’t Care

    <h4>Chapter 148: Chapter 148 Don¡¯t Care</h4>


    Lin Chujian was somewhat incredulous, "Gu Qixiao, you actually have the audacity to say such things?"


    To think that Gu Qixiao used to be indifferent and detached toward everyone.


    Yet now, he¡¯s taking actions so humble they¡¯ve practically sunk into the dust.


    "Even if you act like this, she still doesn¡¯t like you. Are you nning to keep insisting?"


    "Liking her is my own business." He admitted that his behavior was indeed a bit unusual.


    But how could he possibly give up on Ji Yu so casually?


    Such feelings for him were absolutely fatal.


    For a moment, Lin Chujian was rendered speechless, unsure how to describe the Gu Qixiao before her.


    "I really didn¡¯t expect you¡¯d turn out like this one day. I always thought you¡¯d never be troubled by matters of the heart."


    "Really?" Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t think there was anything wrong with this.


    When you meet someone you truly like, it¡¯s natural to be unable to forget them¡ªthis kind of behavior should be considered normal.


    He could disregard everything else, but he couldn¡¯t disregard how Ji Yu felt.


    "You previously never showed this kind of dedication to Song Xuan. Gu Qixiao, are you blind? Can¡¯t you see the people around you who care for you, yet you choose to pursue someone like her?"


    "That¡¯s why I say feelings defy logic." He didn¡¯t feel there was anything wrong about it.


    Even if he were to let go, it should be done with dignity¡ªat the very least, it shouldn¡¯t oppress those around him.


    "I hope you won¡¯t bother Ji Yu anymore. If something like this happens again, I¡¯ll take action against you directly."


    After saying this, he simply left,pletely unconcerned about Lin Chujian¡¯s feelings.


    Ji Yu was entirely oblivious to these developments; all she knew was that the Lin family had nothing to do with her.


    But for some reason, they kept showing up¡ªone after another.


    This time, it was a white-haired elderly man.


    Seeing him, Ji Yu truly didn¡¯t know what to say. "Sir, I think you¡¯ve mistaken me for someone else. Your daughter can¡¯t possibly be my age. Besides, I¡¯m a stic surgeon¡ªmaybe I deliberately made my face look like this."


    She wanted topletely sever ties, willing to say anything to achieve that.


    The old man from the Lin family looked at Ji Yu¡¯s face, tears streaming down his cheeks. From the moment heid eyes on her, he felt an inexplicable sense of familiarity, that blurry bond of blood rtions.


    "You are definitely a member of the Lin family. Though I don¡¯t yet know what connection you have to Xiaoling, you cannot possibly not belong to the Lin family."


    He was exceptionally stubborn.


    Ji Yu was exceptionally exasperated.


    "I already said faces can be changed. I¡¯ve altered countless faces myself. Your method of finding people doesn¡¯t work; what you need is a paternity test. Besides, I have a family."


    She always felt that the Ji family were the ones truly connected to her by blood.


    "Moreover, even if you do find your child, don¡¯t you think that harmonious rtionships, where people get along, are what make a family?"


    This kind of random im of kinship was utterly meaningless.


    At least in Ji Yu¡¯s eyes, such antics were of no use to her.


    The man standing beside her seemed surprised by Ji Yu¡¯s resistance, his expression serious. "In that case, why don¡¯t youe with us to do a paternity test? If you are indeed part of the Lin family, we will never treat you unfairly."


    "Well, I really must thank you then. But no, I don¡¯t need it." She had no good feelings toward such patronizing words.


    "Honestly, everything you could offer me, I already have. I don¡¯t need you to use these matters to bind me. I¡¯m living well now, and I don¡¯t need you to criticize me or provide me with some kind of identity."


    These matters were long since irrelevant to her; why must they keeping to her doorstep?


    "No matter how you lost a child back then,ing to find them now surely can¡¯t mean that much to you. Why persist in such pointless stubbornness?"


    Dragging her into such misfortunes.


    Honestly, Ji Yu despised such situations.


    Watching their antics, she felt they were utterly senseless. Were they deliberately trying to cause trouble?


    "I understand your feelings, but back then, we had no choice. Child, juste home with me and take a paternity test."


    The old Lin family patriarch had already confirmed Ji Yu¡¯s identity long ago; he only needed her to acknowledge it as well.


    Such affairs were truly exasperating, and Ji Yu hated these endless entanglements.


    "Even if I really do have some connection to you, you can clearly see¡ªI¡¯m living well now. I don¡¯t need your so-called charity."


    The man disdainfully nced around again, seemingly unimpressed by this ce.


    "You work in such a small hospital, with no real security. It seems your adoptive parents didn¡¯t treat you very well."


    Ji Yu was hearing sentiments like this for the first time. Her gaze toward him was that of someone assessing a fool. "Are you alright?"


    Such remarks were truly absurd.


    He didn¡¯t appear to think his statement was too much, nor that it was interfering unnecessarily.


    "I¡¯m merely stating the facts. If you return home with us, you¡¯ll be able to live a life of luxury."


    Ji Yu felt speechless, realizing this family might not understand her rejection at all. Did they truly not understand such a tant dismissal?


    "I truly don¡¯t want to go back with you. I¡¯m very happy with my life here. This is the career I am passionate about. I don¡¯t need ignorant people like you to humiliate me."


    Moreover, her parents in the Ji family had always respected her choices.


    These people didn¡¯t deserve to criticize her.


    The old Lin family patriarch sensed that Ji Yu was in poor spirits and subtly tugged at the person beside him. "Child, there¡¯s no need to rush. We don¡¯t mean anything else¡ªall we want is for you to do this paternity test, and then it¡¯s over."


    "I¡¯m not going."


    If she went, they would surelye looking for her again.


    She had no interest in getting involved in such troublesome affairs.


    Besides, their actions truly disgusted her.


    "Stop trying to refuse a toast only to drink a forfeit."


    "Oh really? I¡¯d love to see what exactly you might do to me. I¡¯m curious to see what this ¡¯forfeit¡¯ of yours entails." Ji Yu was thest person to fear such threats.


    Besides, did they not feel ashamed saying such things?


    Did they not realize how inappropriate they were being?


    "Honestly, if I were you, I¡¯d have left a long time ago. Since you know I refuse, why not let us each go our own way?"


    For someone who so openly rejected them, it was remarkable they could keep persisting like this.

 Chapter 149 Grievance

    <h4>Chapter 149: Chapter 149 Grievance</h4>


    "All these things you¡¯re saying arepletely useless. I¡¯m a rational person. If I don¡¯t need something, I simply don¡¯t need it."


    What I do need, I will treat seriously and responsibly.


    But clearly, these people seem to have something wrong with their heads. No matter how I look at it, I don¡¯t need to treat them with politeness.


    "I hope you can leave as soon as possible and stop disturbing my life. I am an independent person, not some whoever from your family. Using this kind of method to restrain me¡ªfrankly speaking, you¡¯re not qualified."


    To have people who I¡¯ve never even met approach me with such an attitude¡ªit shows their arrogance.


    Ji Yu¡¯s expression started to show signs of impatience, especially seeing them trying to persist. She simply took out her phone and called security over.


    "Please leave immediately."


    They were somewhat shocked by Ji Yu¡¯s demeanor.


    The man, knowing that continuing like this would lead to embarrassment, handed Ji Yu a business card. "My name is Lin Wenyan. You can contact me directly if you have anything in the future."


    "Thanks, but no thanks." Ji Yu wanted to return the card, but for some reason, the man turned and left without taking it back.


    "Sister Yu, should we go after them?"


    The security guards seemed unsure of what to do.


    Ji Yu rubbed her temples, feeling slightly annoyed. "You don¡¯t need to worry about it. Just stop them if you see them in the future."


    Against people like this, who have power and influence, this was the only way to handle the situation.


    Ji Yu casually tossed the business card into a nearby trash can, no longer intending to pay any attention to the matter.


    But apparently, whether deliberately or not, they failed to understand her rejection, as they dared to show up again the very next day.


    "This time, I¡¯m not here to reconnect with family. I¡¯m here to ask you to perform a surgery."


    "Get in line." Ji Yu didn¡¯t even look up.


    She didn¡¯t know how they had found out her information, but since the request had already been made, they¡¯d better obediently wait in line.


    Lin Wenyan frowned, obviously displeased with Ji Yu¡¯s attitude. "She¡¯s technically your cousin. Can¡¯t she get priority?"


    "I don¡¯t even acknowledge you, and now you want to stick a ¡¯cousin¡¯bel on me? Don¡¯t you find thatughable?"


    Whenever this kind of situation urred, her response was consistently the same: refusal.


    Besides, given the way they were acting, could they truly not see it for what it was?


    "No matter what, the fact remains that you are rted by blood. Can¡¯t you at least evaluate her condition and schedule the surgery?"


    "I¡¯ve already said: get in line." She still didn¡¯t understand how they managed to so tantly ignore what others said.


    Did they really think this was somehow amusing?


    "Frankly speaking, I find your way of thinking to be ridiculous. If you want medical treatment, queue up like everyone else. Isn¡¯t that normal protocol? Are you trying to threaten me?"


    Her attitude was steadfast regardless of who she dealt with. Even Gu Qixiao had to persist for a long time before she finally agreed to operate on Song Xuan.


    "I wasn¡¯t trying to threaten you." Lin Wenyan simply felt that Ji Yu¡¯s personality had major issues.


    "If you¡¯re not, then go get in line properly. How many more times do I need to repeat myself?"


    To her, situations like this were utterly exasperating.


    As it happened, Gu Qixiao had also heard about the situation and, knowing Ji Yu¡¯s temper, suspected she would lose her cool. He quickly came by to see how things were going.


    "What are you doing here?" Ji Yu looked at the seemingly endless stream of troubleing her way and felt her headache worsen.


    If these people had even a shred of logic, they wouldn¡¯t be using tactics like this.


    "I heard the Lin family was here. I was worried there might be some kind of conflict between you." He nced at Lin Wenyan with a scrutinizing look.


    Lin Wenyan, frowning all the while, didn¡¯t appreciate being stared at like this. "And in your eyes, the Lin family would do something to harm her?"


    The Lin family, truthfully, just wanted an exnation. Yet, the situation now painted them as a bunch of bullies.


    Ji Yu sighed. "A family like yours surely can¡¯t be missing one child. So, why must it be me that you¡¯re fixated on?"


    She couldn¡¯t help but feel the situation was incredibly strange. Did this child hold some extraordinary value for them?


    "And after all this time, you¡¯re only now searching for the child who went missing? What does that child even mean to you?"


    She didn¡¯t understand and didn¡¯t care to understand. Could they even begin to exin themselves clearly?


    For a moment, Lin Wenyan didn¡¯t know what to say. The truth was in as day. Even when he first encountered this situation, he had been bewildered.


    "I have no idea why the Old Master wants to bring you back, but I hope you¡¯ll at least try to get to know our family."


    "There¡¯s no need; I already know them." She still remembered Lin Chujian¡¯s actions vividly. Even if those events were astonishing, not once had she spoken ill of their family.


    Now, the circumstances were just absurd and baffling.


    "I really don¡¯t know if one of you is ying the good cop and the other the bad cop, but your actions are severely disrupting my life."


    To Ji Yu, this entire ordeal was just a burden. Sometimes, things needed to be resolved straightforwardly; otherwise, when things became awkward, whose fault would it ultimately be?


    "This situation is already a mess for me, so I sincerely hope you can allow me some space and stop giving me trouble in this way."


    Lin Wenyan let out a helpless sigh. "As for the surgery, I hope you¡¯ll at least consider it. We wouldn¡¯t expect you to do it for free."


    "Well, thank you so much, but that¡¯s not something you need to concern yourself with." She looked at the man before her, finding it amusing how thoroughly he misunderstood the situation. Otherwise, he wouldn¡¯t be making such statements.


    "Look at yourself in the mirror, and you should be able to understand the current nature of our rtionship. A patient pays a doctor¡ªthat¡¯s a given. Beyond that, I have many patients, and for surgery, you¡¯ll need to wait your turn."


    Shouldn¡¯t something like this bemon sense?


    Why did it seem, in their eyes, like an act of charity?


    "If you¡¯re expecting a free handout, go find someone else. Besides, I¡¯ve made myself perfectly clear about the surgery. You assume that just because you im to be my family, and because of your wealth and power, you can cut in line."


    As she said this, Ji Yu nced briefly at Gu Qixiao. Back then, Gu Qixiao had behaved the same way, in retrospect, it was actually quiteughable.


    "Go ahead and mull it over on your own. I¡¯ve said all there is to say. What you choose to do next¡ªI¡¯m sure you know perfectly well."

 Chapter 150 Clear Cognition

    <h4>Chapter 150: Chapter 150 Clear Cognition</h4>


    In truth, when Ji Yu said these words, she already knew it was impossible for them to coexist harmoniously.


    "Why are you so impervious to reason?" Lin Wenyan, for the first time, realized how stubborn a person could be.


    Even if they weren¡¯t family, could this kind of detachment be considered right?


    "Yu, I think it¡¯d be better for you to calm down. Perhaps it¡¯s because of what Lin Chujian said to you that you¡¯ve developed some grievances against the Lin family, but honestly, they¡¯re not as terrible as you think."


    Gu Qixiao still hoped Ji Yu would understand this point. Some people were indeed awful, but that issue belonged to the individual.


    "I don¡¯t know how they¡¯ve discussed things, but from my perspective, this matter seems to have no room for negotiation."


    Since she disliked them, there was no need to think about it anymore.


    Pointless matters need not be addressed.


    "I¡¯ve already said I don¡¯t like this kind of life, so whatever you say is meaningless to me."


    Just as things hit an impasse, Ji Yu¡¯s parents from the Ji family also arrived at the scene. Seeing the situation, their expressions turned grave.


    "I don¡¯t know what your family intends, but our Yu isn¡¯t some orphaned child nobody wants. You¡¯ve seen the current situation ¡ª Yu doesn¡¯t want to go back."


    To the members of the Ji family, Ji Yu was unquestionably their daughter.


    But reality seemed to differ slightly from what they expected.


    Seeing this couple before him, Lin Wenyan suddenly began to wonder if Ji Yu¡¯s temperament had been learned from them; otherwise, how could they be so alike?


    "I mean no disrespect ¡ª I only came to ask Doctor Ji about the matter regarding surgery. I believe Doctor Ji understands that, for a young woman, her face is something she undoubtedly cares about..."


    "But all my other patients care about their faces too. For them, these kinds of matters are unfair, and the way you bring it up feels like charity." Ji Yu hadn¡¯t intended to obsess over this issue, but seeing them repeatedly bringing it up, she was too weary to exin further.


    "Alright, let¡¯s discuss your issuester."


    Her thoughts were entirely preupied with this matter.


    She needed additional time to deal with her patients¡¯ concerns.


    Ji Yu¡¯s parents from the Ji family understood her mindset well, so they decisively blocked Lin Wenyan¡¯s path. "There¡¯s no need for you to seek out Yu directly. If you have something to discuss, you can talk to us instead."


    They had long since made their decision: if Ji Yu ever desired to connect with them, they wouldn¡¯t stand in her way, but the current circumstances spoke to something entirely different.


    "You might be misunderstanding something." Lin Wenyan tried to exin, but their hostility toward him rendered any exnation futile ¡ª they wouldn¡¯t agree regardless.


    Ji Yu herself didn¡¯t understand what had transpired. After leaving the scene with Gu Qixiao, she made it clear: under no circumstances would she have any connection to the Lin family.


    "Even if you¡¯re coborating with the Lin family, it¡¯s absolutely impossible for there to be anything between us. I think you understand what I mean."


    Evidently, Ji Yu had some misunderstandings about the situation.


    For a moment, Gu Qixiao wasn¡¯t sure what to say. "You¡¯re mistaken, Yu. My coboration with them has nothing to do with you."


    He knew Ji Yu had always been sensitive about these matters, and there was no way he¡¯d impose them upon her.


    But for Ji Yu, these issues seemed irrelevant. Perhaps she thought they were a waste of time, which was why she now wanted to leave.


    "Let¡¯s stop talking about this. After this, I ask that you not bring up the Lin family again. As for their behavior, all I can say is they might very well have some inherent mental issues."


    With that, Ji Yu turned and left.


    However, Ji Yu clearly underestimated these people¡¯s determination, as they managed to track down the Ji family directly.


    When the Ji family parents saw Elder Lin, they found it hard to simply drive him away. For someone of his age, they couldn¡¯t rashly act.


    "Whatever your intentions are, go ahead and speak inly. Our Yu has long lived happily with us; she doesn¡¯t need to return to a family like yours."


    Elder Lin scrutinized everything about the Ji family, his mind filled with silent disdain. Nheless, he maintained a veneer of courtesy. "I mean no offense ¡ª I simply believe that Yu, as a child, should return to where she truly belongs."


    His mind was set; given the situation, ensuring Ji Yu¡¯s return was essential.


    "You can state any terms you wish. I understand it hasn¡¯t been easy for you to raise Yu, but for our family, finding her has been incredibly difficult."


    His meaning was clear: as long as they were willing to let her go, he¡¯d ept any terms they set.


    The expressions of Ji Yu¡¯s parents turned sour; they hadn¡¯t expected him to speak such things aloud. "Elder Lin, do you honestly think your words are humorous or even remotely kind?"


    When Ji Yu descended the staircase, the first words she heard were these. "While I don¡¯t know what purpose you have, your actions make me suspect you¡¯re trying to manipte me or force me into something."


    For someone to go to these lengths usually meant they were asking for a considerable favor.


    Elder Lin¡¯s expression froze momentarily but quickly recovered. "Child, why would you harbor such thoughts? You must understand, the reason we didn¡¯t seek you earlier was because there were no leads at the time, and the Lin family wasn¡¯t safe then."


    "Really? And is it any safer now?"


    Such reasoning was clearly invalid, yet he uttered it with such pompous self-righteousness.


    "At the very least, we can absolutely protect you. To us, you are precious. When my wife, your grandmother, passed away, even in her final moments, she was thinking about you."


    Whether this was true or false was unclear, but Ji Yu couldn¡¯t help but be amused. "So, despite not searching for me sooner, you show up now ¡ª of all times ¡ª and even propose deals to my parents? Do you think money solves everything?"


    Ji Yu¡¯s parents, clearly unmotivated by greed, appeared calm as ever.


    But thisment evidently struck a nerve with Elder Lin, whose expression soured ¡ª he likely never anticipated such outright resistance.


    "Our Lin family¡¯s wealth guarantees you¡¯ll receive a share if you return. Do you truly believe, as an adopted daughter, you¡¯ll have equal status in the Ji family?"


    Having investigated the Ji family¡¯s dynamics, including their son, Elder Lin exuded confidence, fully expecting Ji Yu to ept.


    "What belongs to my brother will stay with him. Why should Ipete for it? It¡¯s not as though I can¡¯t support myself."


    She had her own career, after all.

 Chapter 151 The Lin Family’s Conspiracy

    <h4>Chapter 151: Chapter 151 The Lin Family¡¯s Conspiracy</h4>


    "What you¡¯re saying doesn¡¯t move me in the slightest. I think my current life is just fine."


    At the very least, this oue is still a good one.


    She¡¯s doing well.


    But going back to the Lin family¡ªwho knows what might happen there.


    Seeing how Elder Lin is this shameless, there must be some sort of scheme behind all this. It¡¯s really not certain what it is yet.


    Ji Yu had already seen through all of it, so there¡¯s no way she would easily fall for anything just for money.


    "Elder, there¡¯s no need for you to keep going on like this. Why don¡¯t you just state your purpose directly? If it¡¯s something I can help with, I might consider it. But in most cases, I don¡¯t think that¡¯s likely."


    She kept smiling, but Elder Lin had this feeling¡ªJi Yu seemed to know something. Otherwise, why would she have that kind of look in her eyes?


    His expression faltered slightly, as if he had been brought back to the early days of interacting with a certain someone.


    "If you¡¯re not going to speak, Elder Lin, I¡¯ll take it as your silent acknowledgment of my words. Now I suggest you stop obsessing over this and just head home as soon as possible."


    There¡¯s no real shame in having your schemes exposed. What¡¯s shameful is insisting on continuing this nonsense¡ªwhat¡¯s the point of making trouble for no reason?


    "I..."


    At that moment, Ji Yuanzhou returned. Seeing this situation, he seemed a little surprised. "And who might this be?"


    "That¡¯s the old man from the Lin family."


    This time, the Ji family was clearly united. Just seeing someone from the Lin family put them on high alert¡ªif the Lin family really tried something shameless, like snatching someone away, they¡¯d definitely do everything to protect Ji Yu.


    Seeing this stance, Elder Lin seemed to realize he couldn¡¯t continue the conversation and wasn¡¯t in a rush. "There¡¯s no need for you all to reject me so hastily. The benefits I can offer you are far greater than you imagine. Is an adopted daughter really worth this much effort from you?"


    He¡¯d returned to his usual calm demeanor this time.


    But the words he spoke carried a vaguely threatening undertone.


    Ji Yu¡¯s eyebrows knit slightly. She had already anticipated that Elder Lin might say such things. "Elder Lin, if you want to target me, that¡¯s fine. But if you go after my family, don¡¯t me me for making trouble for you."


    Just because Ji Yu kept quiet didn¡¯t mean she was easy to bully. After all, everyone understood the principle of mutual respect, right?


    "Kid, the waters you¡¯re wading into run deeper than you think. What do you mean by that?"


    He looked at Ji Yu, curious about what kind of move she would make. This type of back and forth was probably cruel for everyone involved.


    Ji Yu frowned. "The things you care about, I don¡¯t. When the timees and your Lin family is utterly disgraced, you¡¯ll have no one to me but yourselves."


    In this area, she had done her homework.


    And besides, this time, the Lin family had gone way too far. There was no way she could just let it slide.


    Without saying anything further, Elder Lin gave Ji Yu a meaningful look before leaving.


    This time, Ji Yu was even more certain¡ªthere was no way their reasons for wanting to bring this child back were simple.


    "Yu, just do what you think is right. Mom, Dad, and your brother will never let you suffer."


    They truly cared for her.


    Ji Yu was deeply aware of their thoughts, and she couldn¡¯t help but feel touched. "I¡¯m nning to investigate their true intentions first."


    At the very least, stumbling around cluelessly like this wasn¡¯t an option¡ªit was clearly disadvantageous for them.


    "Will it be dangerous for you, Yu? You absolutely must not let anything happen to yourself. Even if they reallye after the Ji family, we can still hold out for a while."


    Ji Yu smiled, soothing their worries as best she could. "Don¡¯t worry, Mom. It¡¯s pretty simple for me to investigate their affairs. You all need to stay safe too¡ªthere¡¯s no telling how far these people will go."


    They were still visibly worried.


    But they trusted that Ji Yu wouldn¡¯t say such things unless she was prepared.


    And Ji Yu wasn¡¯t nning to waste any more time. On her way back, she immediately called Hong, letting him know that this time, they needed to be thorough in getting ready.


    "Help me look into whether this Elder Lin has any illnessestely, like something that requires a donor."


    Judging by Elder Lin¡¯s condition, he didn¡¯t look well. Yet he was still holding on¡ªit seemed he was quite resilient.


    Hong was worried about Ji Yu¡¯s situation. "If they really have such a n, wouldn¡¯t that put you in danger, Sister Yu?"


    He didn¡¯t know what Ji Yu had been through during this time, but for something to weigh on her mind like this, it had to be serious.


    "Don¡¯t worry. I have some confidence in handling this. And I also know that if they go to such lengths, they must have done their homework beforehand."


    Careful preparation was essential for these matters.


    "Alright, then wait for my update. I¡¯ll make sure to find out everything as quickly as I can."


    Of course, when Gu Qixiao heard about this, he was also concerned. This time, when he arrived, he was unexpectedly calm. "I know you don¡¯t want to see me, but I still need to make this clear¡ªI want to protect you."


    He didn¡¯t understand why things had escted like this. The fact that he had a hand in pushing it forward made him feel like aplete fool.


    "Do you feel guilty? Actually, even without you, given their influence, they¡¯d have found me soon enough. Your involvement didn¡¯t really make much difference."


    Truthfully, his original intentions had been good.


    Ji Yu smiled lightly. She didn¡¯t want everyone around her staying so tense. "Can¡¯t you all see that I¡¯m doing fine? For them toe after me, it¡¯ll still take some time."


    Among the Lin family, ironically, the most fearsome-looking Lin Wenyan seemed to be the most reasonable one.


    "I need you to help me with something. Get Lin Wenyan to meet me¡ªI have some questions I need to ask him."


    At the very least, she needed to understand their true intentions.


    Such a small favor¡ªGu Qixiao couldn¡¯t refuse.


    When Lin Wenyan heard that it was Ji Yu inviting him, he readily agreed.


    "Why didn¡¯t you just contact me yourself? Didn¡¯t I already give you my number before?" He seemed genuinely puzzled by this.


    Ji Yu simply ignored that question. "I can agree to your surgery request, but you¡¯ll have to do me a favor in return."


    She was confident in this matter and knew he¡¯d been preparing for the surgery for a while now.


    "Really?" He seemed a bit skeptical, given how resolute Ji Yu had been before.

 Chapter 152: Dislike Lying

    <h4>Chapter 152: Chapter 152: Dislike Lying</h4>


    "Of course it¡¯s true. I never like lying. You need to seriously consider whether you can agree to do the thing I¡¯m asking of you. If any problems ariseter, you can¡¯t me me for not giving you this chance."


    His expression was a bit conflicted, but seeing Ji Yu like this, he decided to trust her anyway. After all, Ji Yu had previously mentioned that this type of surgery could seed, though patients must wait in line.


    "Go ahead, tell me."


    "I want Mr. Lin¡¯s hair, the kind that can be used for testing." She had been considering whether there was some disease in Mr. Lin¡¯s case that had gone unnoticed. Investigating through Hong carried certain risks, so it was better for her to seize the opportunity herself.


    "If you want to do a paternity test, juste out and say it. There¡¯s no need to be so secretive."


    He thought Ji Yu was nning a paternity test to determine if there was a familial rtionship.


    "There¡¯s no need to mention that. All you need to say is whether you can agree and carry it out. The rest is not your concern."


    Her attitude regarding this matter was resolute.


    Although Lin Wenyan had no idea what was really going on, seeing Ji Yu behave this way left him no choice but to agree. Still, he was curious why Ji Yu was conducting this matter so surreptitiously.


    "No one must know about this. You understand what I¡¯m saying, right?"


    "I understand." Lin Wenyan already knew Ji Yu wasn¡¯t easy to deal with, so he didn¡¯t dare to take her lightly.


    Besides, there was the uing surgery. Offending Ji Yu could prove to be quite troublesome.


    Ji Yu said nothing further this time. After returning, she quietly awaited the results.


    However, Lin Wenyan¡¯s progress seemed not to be going smoothly, so he straightforwardly considered asking whether Ji Yu could take a look at his daughter¡¯s face first.


    "Of course I can take a look, but have you prepared what I asked for? Be sure not to wait in vain. After all, having hope is better than beingpletely hopeless."


    "I will definitely do it." He gritted his teeth. Considering his daughter¡¯s situation over the past period, he no longer wanted to doubt anything.


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t quite understand why he appeared so determined. The Lin family had yet to produce anyone she found "normal."


    Nheless, since he¡¯d resolved himself this much, Ji Yu had no reason to refuse.


    When she finally saw his daughter, Ji Yu was somewhat surprised.


    "The scars on your face must have been there for quite some time, right? And it looks deliberate. Why?"


    Who would be this perverse, doing something like this to a girl¡¯s face?


    The young girl seemed a bit introverted. When she saw Ji Yu, her eyes held admiration, but upon being asked this question, she clearly didn¡¯t want to answer.


    "The incident back then was a misunderstanding. No one in the family knows exactly what happened. All they know is that she was found in Mr. Lin¡¯s room with blood on her face. Even in the end, no one figured out who was responsible."


    The mere thought of the incident made Lin Wenyan furiously resentful, though there was a theory suggesting the child had taken the misfortune intended for Mr. Lin upon herself.


    Thus, despite his irritation, he couldn¡¯t bring himself to express it openly in front of Mr. Lin.


    "It seems your family truly has a story for everyone. But you don¡¯t need to worry; judging by the current situation, your daughter¡¯s face is very likely to recover."


    As she spoke, Ji Yu began drafting a treatment n, making sure to reassure the young girl not to be afraid. "You just need to wait for some time, and you¡¯ll return to normal soon. You¡¯re very beautiful¡ªyou don¡¯t need to feel inferior."


    Who doesn¡¯t care about their face?


    Ji Yu spoke with warmth when discussing the matter, worrying the girl might feel troubled by it.


    The girl looked at Ji Yu, her eyes sparkling. "Can I look as good as you?"


    "That¡¯s not certain. Everyone¡¯s aesthetics are different. You might like your own face more when you see it. There¡¯s no need to look like anyone else."


    After all, beauty is a descriptive word¡ªit represents the beautiful things you perceive, not something vague or arbitrary.


    For the first time, the young girl smiled shyly, which surprised Lin Wenyan and made him deeply grateful for Ji Yu¡¯s gentle sentiments.


    "Take a look¡ªthis is the ideal result for your repair. Of course, you must follow my instructions precisely. Don¡¯t take any other actions, do you understand?"


    She didn¡¯t want the girl¡¯s situation to end up ruined by stic surgery or simr ventures.


    The young girl nodded, clearly intrigued by it all. "Is this how you imagine me to look?"


    "No, it¡¯s how you truly should look. This is calcted based on your bone structure; it¡¯s not as miraculous as you¡¯re imagining."


    She continued speaking softly to the girl, a stark contrast to her usual demeanor.


    Even Lin Wenyan couldn¡¯t quiteprehend what kind of person Ji Yu truly was.


    "Thank you." The girl visibly liked the appearance shown to her, growing happier upon realizing it was her natural look.


    "But your surgery timeline still needs to be arrangedter."


    Though Ji Yu didn¡¯t state it outright, she subtly reminded Lin Wenyan to fulfill his previous promise.


    As they left, Lin Wenyan couldn¡¯t resist asking Ji Yu, "Why is your attitude toward me so different from your attitude toward my daughter? Don¡¯t you dislike people from the Lin family?"


    "You¡¯re imagining things. It¡¯s not that I hate the way you cover up for the family¡ªit¡¯s just that I think this kind of secrecy is unnecessary."


    She had always been tender when treating patients. Besides, the Lin family¡¯s previous condescending attitude toward her was off-putting¡ªwho would like that?


    "I treat people based on how they treat me. Whatever attitude you show me, I¡¯ll express the same."


    That was simply who she was.


    Lin Wenyan fell silent for a moment, finally understanding Ji Yu¡¯s words. He realized that this time, his family had indeed ced undue pressure on her.


    "Honestly, the reason we¡¯ve been so anxious is that Mr. Lin is urgent about wanting you to return. I don¡¯t even know why you were identified as part of our family, but we definitely can¡¯t defy Mr. Lin¡¯s wishes."


    He paused here, unsure whether Ji Yu would believe him, though he was being truthful with her.


    "No matter what, thank you. I didn¡¯t expect you to be such an extraordinary doctor."


    "It¡¯s nothing. Just don¡¯t forget what you promised me earlier." These things were routine for Ji Yu, something she had mastered long ago.


    There was no need for praise. What mattered was sorting out themitments they¡¯d made.


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 Chapter 153: After modification - 153 Problems

    <h4>Chapter 153: After modification: Chapter 153 Problems</h4>


    Of course, Ji Yu hadn¡¯t expected that such an offhand guess would actuallye true so quickly.


    The news from Hong¡¯s side wasn¡¯t quite definitive yet.


    "This old man from the Lin family is very cautious, so there are two versions of the case file this time, making it hard to distinguish which one is real."


    However, now that things had escted to this stage, it¡¯s highly likely that the old man is truly ill and needs someone to rece certain organs.


    Ji Yu raised her eyebrows. "No rush. I want to see just how far he¡¯s willing to go."


    When the timees, Lin Wenyan can bring back that old man¡¯s hair, and no matter the illness, it can be fully investigated.


    "Sister Yu, to be honest, this guy is kind of scary. Maybe you should keep some distance from them."


    "Some things can¡¯t be avoided so easily. Like in this case, can you truly figure out what¡¯s going on here?" Her attitude toward these people had always been detached, but when they use the excuse of familial ties, it¡¯s almost impossible for the average person to avoid them.


    "Their tactic is quite ingenious."


    It¡¯s just that they underestimated Ji Yu¡¯s rationality, which is why they haven¡¯t seeded yet.


    "Sister Yu, should I expose this issue? I believe they¡¯d be scared."


    "No need." Ji Yu was concerned Hong might get implicated along the way.


    This type of situation is inherently a trap, and dragging anyone else in wouldn¡¯t end well.


    Hong wasn¡¯t sure how to describe his current feelings, but looking at Ji Yu¡¯s expression, he could tell this matter would likely be hard to resolve.


    "You don¡¯t need to worry too much about me. Things will eventually pass."


    Hasn¡¯t it already developed this far?


    When the boat gets to the pier, it will straighten itself out. Who knows, maybe the old man will end up reaping what he¡¯s sown?


    She didn¡¯t feel particrly pressured. After all, at worst, it¡¯d end in mutual destruction.


    Lin Wenyan had indeed put considerable effort into this, finally delivering the thing Ji Yu wanted to her hands.


    He looked at Ji Yu with some hesitation, feeling that there was something amiss about the situation. "Ji Yu, what are you nning to do with the old man¡¯s hair?"


    "You don¡¯t need to worry about that." She didn¡¯t believe they were entirely clueless about this matter.


    Lin Wenyan sighed helplessly, but since he¡¯d still need Ji Yu to perform surgery on his daughterter, he chose not to probe further.


    "Why are you here?" When Gu Qixiao saw him, his demeanor was clearly guarded, likely worried that he¡¯d try something against Ji Yu.


    "I came to see her about my daughter. There¡¯s no need for your over-cautiousness." He harbored no ill intentions toward Ji Yu.


    Nevertheless, Gu Qixiao remained wary in such matters. He¡¯d learned his lesson from previous incidents, and the memory of those deterred any negligence this time.


    "The situation regarding Yu doesn¡¯t require interference from your Lin family. And isn¡¯t your daughter¡¯s surgery supposed to wait for some time anyway?"


    He understood Ji Yu¡¯s personality¡ªshe wouldn¡¯t open any back doors simply because of familial ties.


    "That¡¯s none of your concern." Lin Wenyan was equally annoyed with Gu Qixiao, wondering why they were so suspicious of his motives.


    After saying this, Lin Wenyan didn¡¯t bother looking at Gu Qixiao¡¯s expression and turned to leave abruptly.


    Gu Qixiao wasn¡¯t offended by his attitude. After all, people from the Lin family had always been inexplicably difficult.


    "President Gu, Sister Yu said she doesn¡¯t want to see you." Before he could even step through the hospital doors, Tian blocked his path.


    Tian was clearly uneasy, unsure how to handle the situation between them.


    "I have an important matter to discuss with her today. It¡¯s not about feelings." He knew Ji Yu wouldn¡¯t meet him without good reason.


    Tian hesitated for a moment but ultimately chose to lead Gu Qixiao to Ji Yu.


    "Sister Yu, he said he has something to talk to you about."


    Ji Yu wasn¡¯t surprised by Gu Qixiao¡¯s arrival. "So, what is it? Don¡¯t tell me you¡¯re nning to talk to me about issues with the Lin family."


    "How did you know?" He seemed genuinely surprised that Ji Yu had guessed the matter concerning the Lin family.


    Still, he was prepared to give her a proper warning. "The Lin family searching for their daughter definitely isn¡¯t that simple, especially considering that your age doesn¡¯t match the missing girl¡¯s profile. Yet, they¡¯re stubbornly convinced you¡¯re her."


    Something must be amiss. He refused to believe otherwise.


    They¡¯d been partners for years¡ªhow could he possibly not know what kind of people they are?


    "You¡¯re saying they might have fabricated this missing daughter scenario and made me the target?"


    "Yes." Gu Qixiao looked at Ji Yu with concern, afraid something might happen to her because of this.


    However, Ji Yu remained fairly optimistic, not seeing the situation as overly dire.


    "I realized it a while ago. Also, here¡¯s the old man¡¯sb report¡ªit seems his condition might be even moreplex and sinister than we imagined."


    Ji Yu never med Gu Qixiao for this, nor did she think there was any significant connection between the two.


    "Don¡¯t bother exining. I know you wouldn¡¯t intentionally cause problems." She knew Gu Qixiao¡¯s character well enough to trust he wasn¡¯t involved.


    "I want to protect you." Gu Qixiao couldn¡¯t hold back anymore and simply wanted to express his intentions to Ji Yu clearly.


    Ji Yu sighed with frustration. "You¡¯re always trying to sacrifice for me, but haven¡¯t you considered the future implications? Honestly, I don¡¯t think it¡¯s necessary at all."


    He should focus on finding a new path in life.


    At the very least, Ji Yu certainly wasn¡¯t contemting being together with him right now.


    "If I were to give up so easily, wouldn¡¯t that be even more disappointing? I know you think Ick sincerity or that I¡¯m not genuine, but I¡¯d never have such thoughts."


    She couldn¡¯t outright dismiss this as a misunderstanding.


    After all, that three-year marriage where they hadn¡¯t seen each other even once had shown Ji Yu one thing¡ªthat Gu Qixiao was capable of giving her up for other pursuits.


    "Enough. Don¡¯t get fixated on all this. There¡¯s no misunderstanding between us. I still have to deal with the Lin family¡¯s situation, so I hope you can stop adding to my burden."


    So now, he¡¯s her burden?


    Gu Qixiao suddenly didn¡¯t know what to say to counter her words.


    Sometimes, hearing such naked truths from someone you care about can cut you deeper than you¡¯d imagined, leaving no room for change no matter how hard you try.


    "I¡¯ll handle the Lin family¡¯s matters. Since they¡¯ve targeted you, it¡¯s unlikely they¡¯ll remain silent for much longer."


    Ji Yu also contemted the matter. In the past few days, aside from Lin Wenyan, no one else from the Lin family had contacted her.


    "Let¡¯s wait and see how it unfolds. But if you intervene, it¡¯ll undoubtedly affect the coboration between your two families. I can¡¯t just let you suffer losses for nothing."

 Chapter 154: Loss

    <h4>Chapter 154: Chapter 154: Loss</h4>


    Before Ji Yu could finish her sentence, she received a call from Ji Yuanzhou.


    Although Gu Qixiao couldn¡¯t hear what was being said on the other end, it was obvious from Ji Yu¡¯s expression that something was very wrong.


    "I understand. I¡¯ll head over now. Try to calm my brother down first."


    Gu Qixiao had an inkling of what might be going on. As soon as Ji Yu hung up, he immediately said, "I¡¯ll take you there."


    Ji Yu frowned, "Do you even know where I¡¯m going?"


    "Is it a problem with the Ji family¡¯spany? It seems like the Lin family can¡¯t directly strike at you, so they¡¯re resorting to this kind of tactic to pressure you."


    This kind of move was unquestionably despicable. It was hard to fathom what these people were even thinking.


    Throughout the drive, Ji Yu kept her lips pressed tightly together, her expression grim.


    Seeing this, Gu Qixiao understood that she was likely already strategizing how to deal with the Lin family. "The Lin family is vast and has made preparations in advance. Don¡¯t act impulsively. Let me talk to them properly first."


    He believed that this coboration would still earn the Lin family some respect.


    "I don¡¯t want to dy your work."


    "If the loss of a mere coboration is enough to crush me, then I shouldn¡¯t even be sitting in this position. Don¡¯t worry about me¡ªI¡¯m willing to do this for you." He didn¡¯t look at Ji Yu, but his words carried unwavering conviction.


    "Since you know I care for you, there¡¯s no harm in epting my kindness. Please, don¡¯t be upset, okay?" He hoped Ji Yu wouldn¡¯t force herself to endure this.


    Ji Yu was somewhat taken aback; she hadn¡¯t expected Gu Qixiao to say such things.


    During the entire trip, Ji Yu remained silent, leaving Gu Qixiao unsure whether she was angry or lost in thought over the other matters at hand.


    Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t rush her and escorted Ji Yu straight to the Ji family¡¯s office.


    The secretary was already waiting downstairs. Seeing Ji Yu arrive, she quickly stepped forward. "Miss, these people are aggressive and specifically requested to meet with you. On top of that, there¡¯s a major w in this coboration. At the time, President Ji failed to notice..."


    So now, they had undoubtedly fallen into a trap.


    "Got it." Ji Yu¡¯s expression turned icy.


    Despite knowing the hole had been deliberately dug, she couldn¡¯t help but feel upset upon hearing Ji Yuanzhou had suffered a setback.


    The two followed the secretary into the office.


    Before even stepping inside, they could already hear Ji Yuanzhou¡¯s agitated voice.


    "Even if the Ji family truly falls into decline, don¡¯t even think about taking Yu away. I¡¯m telling you, that¡¯s never going to happen."


    Even now, he was doing his utmost to protect Ji Yu.


    Ji Yu felt a pang of sorrow in her heart. "Brother, what are you saying? How could I ever stand by and watch the Ji family copse?"


    She truly adored the Ji family.


    But clearly, these people didn¡¯t have good intentions.


    Lin Chujian didn¡¯t seem surprised to see Ji Yu. "Oh, the star of the show has arrived. Can we get down to business now?"


    Reclining on the sofa, Lin Chujian appeared as though she found the unfolding drama quite entertaining.


    The chill in Ji Yu¡¯s gaze deepened. "If this is the Lin family¡¯s attitude, then there¡¯s no way I¡¯ll return. Moreover, you¡¯ll have to make up for the Ji family¡¯s losses!"


    Upon hearing this, Lin Chujian burst intoughter as if she¡¯d heard a joke. "Ah, so you¡¯re still dreaming? Instead of worrying about these things, you should think about how you¡¯ll establish yourself after going back. Why face us with such an attitude?"


    To be honest, the Lin family had always been this arrogant.


    And it was true that whatever they wanted, they always managed to obtain.


    "Is that so? Miss Lin, then let¡¯s wait and see. Let¡¯s see if the Lin family suffers or if I do."


    She had been truly provoked this time.


    Earlier, she¡¯d been able to tolerate things. At least it had seemed worth considering.


    But the current circumstances were beyond outrageous.


    Ji Yuanzhou, standing to the side, didn¡¯t fully agree. "Yu, you don¡¯t need to get involved in this matter. I¡¯ll protect you."


    This time, he did bear responsibility. How could he have been careless with such an important issue?


    Given the oue, there was no denying his culpability.


    "Brother, they¡¯re troubling the Ji family because of me. How can I not care?"


    Lin Chujian scoffed at the scene as if they were putting on a show. She felt they were merely bluffing. "You can keep up this bravado for now, but look at the mess you¡¯ve be. Sooner orter, the Lin family will swallow you whole."


    After finishing, she turned her gaze to Gu Qixiao beside Ji Yu. "Gu Qixiao, we¡¯re still friends, aren¡¯t we? I¡¯d advise you not to make a mistake. After all, the Gu family and the Lin family are close business partners. What are you and that woman even supposed to be?"


    She knew that Ji Yu and Gu Qixiao weren¡¯t officially together, so she dared to speak so boldly.


    Gu Qixiao frowned. "If the Lin family continues to behave this way, who¡¯s to say there won¡¯t be betrayal in the future? Let¡¯s discuss the partnershipter."


    He made his stance clear in front of everyone.


    From the beginning, this coboration had been fraught with challenges. Perhaps it had been a bad omen all along.


    He didn¡¯t waver on this matter. If they persisted with this attitude, the partnership didn¡¯t need to continue.


    For a moment, Lin Chujian found herself stifled, ufortable under his response. "Gu Qixiao, do you know how much you¡¯ll lose if this coboration falls through?"


    "Perhaps the Lin family will lose more." Gu Qixiao had never clung to such matters.


    Besides, future business would allow them to recoup profits. Why obsess over this one situation?


    "You!" Lin Chujian realized Gu Qixiao was aplete romantic, losing all sense of rationale when it came to Ji Yu.


    "Fine. Think it over properly. The best solution is for Ji Yu to return to the Lin family; then everything will fall into ce."


    With that, Lin Chujian turned and left with her entourage.


    Ji Yu approached Ji Yuanzhou tofort him. "Brother, don¡¯t worry. I know plenty of people, and if we encounter real problems, we¡¯ll figure out another way."


    Over the years, she¡¯d built a considerablework and certainly wouldn¡¯t stand idly by.


    "Yu, I was supposed to protect you, but now the family situation has forced you to shoulder the burden. I feel so ashamed."


    In his opinion, these matters weren¡¯t supposed to be her responsibility.


    Ji Yu smiled gently, finding no fault in it. "Brother, we¡¯re family, and as family, we should face this together."


    She had no desire to leave. The Ji family was working hard to ensure she stayed; how could she disappoint their efforts?


    As for Gu Qixiao, Ji Yu had been considering how to make him stop giving so much of himself. "Gu Qixiao, you don¡¯t owe me anything, so there¡¯s no need to sacrifice this much."

 Chapter 155 Voluntary

    <h4>Chapter 155: Chapter 155 Voluntary</h4>


    Gu Qixiao had already guessed that Ji Yu would say these things and was prepared for it. "I know you¡¯ll definitely say that, but all of this was voluntary. It has nothing to do with you."


    He had only done what he wanted to do.


    "Doctor Ji, are you nning to control my thoughts as well?" He still had the mood to joke with Ji Yu.


    But Ji Yu felt a little sorry for him.


    He had worked so hard earlier managing thepany, and now he had to suffer losses over matters like this.


    "I know you volunteered, but I hope you would consider it more carefully."


    "I¡¯ve thought it through carefully. I know exactly what I feel inside. If I can¡¯t help you, then what¡¯s the point of having these things?" He was this kind of person¡ªhis thoughts wouldn¡¯t change.


    Ji Yu was momentarily speechless.


    Perhaps she hadn¡¯t expected Gu Qixiao to be so serious.


    This kind of affection really left one feeling a little at a loss.


    "You don¡¯t need to feel any pressure. Just know that no matter what happens, you¡¯ll never face the Lin family alone¡ªthat¡¯s enough."


    He looked at Ji Yu with eyes full of love andpromise, flooding Ji Yu with warmth.


    She turned her face away, unwilling to look at Gu Qixiao again, as though she feared that if she kept looking, she wouldn¡¯t be able to resist being drawn to him.


    "Alright, since it¡¯s decided we¡¯ll terminate the contract, I need to provide an exnation at thepany. You guys chat first."


    Ji Yu watched his departing figure, feeling deeply conflicted.


    Perhaps she hadn¡¯t expected Gu Qixiao to be this serious or to have thought things through so thoroughly.


    "If you like him, then why do you still refuse?" Ji Yuanzhou, knowing her so well, couldn¡¯t possibly be unaware of her feelings.


    Her reluctance to look at Gu Qixiao already proved that the person she liked was him.


    "Brother, this won¡¯t lead anywhere. I¡¯m afraid to try."


    Sometimes Ji Yu was actually quite a cowardly person.


    When encountering troubles like this, she thought of retreating.


    "But you¡¯ve already fallen for him. Do you think not knowing the oue means you can forget him? Yu, stop lying to yourself." He saw the affection and conflict in Ji Yu¡¯s eyes withplete rity.


    In his heart, he knew that there would no longer be any chance between him and Ji Yu. But seeing her unhappiness, it pained him too.


    "Think it through carefully. Also, consider what Gu Qixiao did for you today. You don¡¯t need to feel burdened¡ªit¡¯s what a man should do for the woman he loves."


    Ji Yu said nothing, contemting how to make the Lin family pay.


    And also how to prove there was no blood rtion between them.


    However, before Ji Yu could take action, negative news about the Lin family started appearing online, along with reports that Lin Wenyan¡¯s father was nearing the end of his life.


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t need to guess who was behind it.


    "Hong, I told you not to get involved in this. It¡¯s too dangerous."


    She couldn¡¯t casually drag those around her into the fray.


    "Sister Yu, the way they act is outrageous. How could I just sit by and do nothing? Besides, I trust my skills¡ªit won¡¯t be easy for them to find me."


    In fact, not only could they not find him, but they couldn¡¯t even take down the information.


    Lin Wenyan looked at the reports about his father and started to doubt the old man¡¯s motives for seeking out Ji Yu.


    "Father, what exactly is your purpose in wanting Ji Yu back? Why has ite to this?"


    The elder clenched his teeth as he stared at the article, his coughing making it hard for him to catch his breath. "I¡¯m not sick! This is all fabricated nonsense. Do you think my motive in bringing Yu back could be anything else? Of course, it¡¯s to avoid regret in my old age!"


    But is that really the truth?


    He suddenly felt a sense of confusion, unsure whether he should believe it.


    "Don¡¯t overthink it. I¡¯ve heard you¡¯ve been getting along rtively well with Yutely. Talk to her¡ªstop letting her always go against the family. Would we really hurt her?"


    When he said these words, his tone was filled with suppressed anger, clearly furious about the situation but unable to resolve it immediately.


    Lin Wenyan agreed, yet when he met Ji Yu again, he instinctively avoided bringing up the Lin family.


    "What¡¯s that look for? Three days from now is the earliest time for the surgery. Are you not satisfied with it?"


    "No." He hesitated, sensing that Ji Yu might know everything.


    "Were you the one who leaked those online stories? Even if you don¡¯t want to return home, you shouldn¡¯t spread rumors about your father nearing death¡ªit¡¯ll only worsen your rtionship with him."


    "Is that so?" Ji Yu was hoping for their rtionship to deteriorate faster.


    Otherwise, did he expect her to amodate such wickedness?


    "You don¡¯t have to believe what happenedst night, but it doesn¡¯t matter. You¡¯ve got eyes, haven¡¯t you? Haven¡¯t you noticed anything strange all this time? And when exactly did he suddenly start trying to bring me back?"


    This matter had always been a puzzle for Ji Yu. Now it seemed that Lin Wenyan¡¯s father had already exhausted all the other options within the Lin family before considering her.


    Lin Wenyan furrowed his brows, his usual calm demeanor now shaken.


    "Everything has signs. Why won¡¯t you people believe them?" Ji Yu stared at his conflicted expression and understood everything.


    Some people really liked pretending to be clueless, even if they understood everything.


    "Then why did you agree to my surgery?"


    "For two reasons: first, your daughter is a very well-behaved child; second, you¡¯re not a bad person." Ji Yu had encountered all kinds of people. How could she not discern this?


    "Just rein in your temper a bit. You¡¯re actually quite decent."


    Lin Wenyan hadn¡¯t expected Ji Yu to have such a high opinion of him. He didn¡¯t know how to respond.


    "How do you seem to know everything?"


    "Because a person¡¯s appearance can reveal a lot." Ji Yu made her living off insights like these¡ªhow could she not know these things?


    "Anyway, the surgery time is set. Don¡¯t dwell on these things. Honestly, I find your father displeasing. You¡¯d better be careful."


    Things like this might eventuallye back around to involve them.


    They were far more vulnerable than she was.


    Lin Wenyan felt conflicted, unsure whether he should trust Ji Yu¡¯s words.


    Even when he returned home and faced his father, he couldn¡¯t help but analyze him, trying to uncover whether he truly had any secrets.


    "Why do you seem preupied after just one trip out?" Lin Wenyan¡¯s father looked at him, confused about his behavior.


    "It¡¯s nothing." Lin Wenyan withdrew his gaze, instinctively turning to Ji Yu.

 Chapter 156: Know the Face, Not the Heart

    <h4>Chapter 156: Chapter 156: Know the Face, Not the Heart</h4>


    Although Old Master Lin knew his family wouldn¡¯t dare challenge his authority, he still kept his guard up.


    "Did you talk to Yu about something? That kid likely doesn¡¯t see me in the best light. Don¡¯t forget to say a few good words for me."


    He had said this before, too, but every time Ji Yu would leave him speechless, to the point that now, he almost believed the things Ji Yu said.


    "I will."


    His mind was a mess. He hadn¡¯t seen Ji Yu at all before the surgery.


    But by now, Ji Yu was already used to these kinds of things.


    "You don¡¯t need to say much to me. After this surgery, we¡¯ll have nothing to do with each other anymore."


    Their rtionship was simply that of a doctor and patient¡ªit was such a simple fact that it shouldn¡¯t even need her to remind him.


    "Sister Yu, how about I take over? I¡¯m worried your body won¡¯t hold up," Tian said, watching Ji Yu rush about, his heart filled with concern.


    Ji Yu shook her head.


    "This surgery is extremely important to me, and it¡¯s veryplicated. I have to do it myself."


    She hoped that this young girl would no longer have such troubles afterward.


    Tian sighed helplessly. "Sister Yu, your face is so pale. I¡¯m worried you might copse at any moment."


    Even so, Ji Yu insisted and brought Tian into the operating room with her. "If there¡¯s any problem, I¡¯ll call you."


    She had to ensure the surgery was a sess for the young girl; otherwise, she¡¯d lose credibility.


    Fortunately, although Ji Yu looked rather haggard, the surgery went rtively smoothly. Afterward, Ji Yu intended to personally speak to Lin Wenyan about the post-surgery precautions. However, before she could even get to the door, her vision went dark, and she fainted.


    If not for Tian catching her in time, who knows what kind of ident might have happened?


    Lin Wenyan was shocked when he saw what had urred. "What¡¯s wrong with her?"


    Tian¡¯s eyes were filled with distress, and there was a hint of me as he looked at Lin Wenyan. "You really don¡¯t know? The mess your Lin family has caused haspletely drained Sister Yu. She hasn¡¯t been able to rest properly this whole time, and on top of that, Sister Yu is pregnant. How do you think she¡¯s feeling?"


    It was also the first time Lin Wenyan learned of Ji Yu¡¯s pregnancy¡ªguilt flooded his heart. "Take her somewhere to rest first. This time, it¡¯s my fault for pushing too hard."


    His concern for his daughter¡¯s condition had blinded him to Ji Yu¡¯s distress¡ªa shortfall on his part.


    Still, Tian wasn¡¯t entirely at ease. He decided to take Ji Yu to the hospital for a thorough checkup.


    "What happened?" Gu Qixiao had just finished dealing with the matters of the Lin family and hadn¡¯t even had time to enter the Rebirth Gate when he saw Tian carrying Ji Yu out.


    "Sister Yu was too exhausted and fainted. I¡¯m worried and n to take her to the hospital for an examination," Tian exined.


    Gu Qixiao frowned deeply. He knew Ji Yu often pushed herself through difort to perform surgeries. Seeing her like this now pained him deeply.


    "I¡¯ll take her to the hospital. You go back and handle matters at the hospital," Gu Qixiao said decisively.


    Tian knew the surgery had just ended and that he couldn¡¯t leave things unattended, but he was still worried about Ji Yu.


    "You mean you don¡¯t trust me?" Gu Qixiao asked.


    Considering Gu Qixiao¡¯s feelings for Ji Yu¡ªand the fact that the child she carried was his¡ªTian reluctantly relented. "Alright, I understand. Please take care of Sister Yu and contact us if anything happens."


    Gu Qixiao carried Ji Yu into the car.


    Looking at the pale-faced woman in his arms, an ache spread through his chest. "I was only away for a few days, and you¡¯ve worked yourself into this state?"


    He gently brushed Ji Yu¡¯s hair aside, not understanding how she had ended up like this.


    Ji Yu seemed to sense another presence nearby and instinctively tried to push them away.


    But she was too exhausted¡ªher arm felt like it was weighted down.


    Gu Qixiao, unaware of how deeply unwell she was, stayed by her side after the checkup, afraid he wouldn¡¯t be there when something unexpected happened.


    "Yu, don¡¯t push yourself so hard anymore."


    He couldn¡¯t bear to see her like this.


    At that moment, Ji Yu didn¡¯t respond. After receiving an injection, herplexion improved slightly.


    Ji Yu fully sank into an unresponsive state, falling into a deep sleep.


    The next morning, when Ji Yu woke up, she noticed something felt off about her surroundings. She looked up and saw Gu Qixiao. Instantly, she understood this couldn¡¯t be the Ji family¡¯s ce¡ªif it were, Gu Qixiao would¡¯ve been scolded to death by now.


    "You¡¯re awake?" Gu Qixiao asked. Even though he was exhaustedtely, it didn¡¯t reach the point of copse.


    He¡¯d only been sleeping lightly, worried about Ji Yu.


    Ji Yu frowned. "Why are you here? And why am I in a hospital?"


    If she recalled correctly, she should¡¯ve been performing surgery at Rebirth. How had she ended up here?


    "How can you even ask? Why would you put yourself through so much? You¡¯re already having a hard time being pregnant, yet you¡¯re still taking care of so many things. You even fainted without realizing it," Gu Qixiao scolded, frustration and worry etched on his face.


    He knew Ji Yu was doing all this for the Lin family, leaving him helpless despite his concern.


    Ji Yu frowned, her memory of the event hazy.


    But she noticed the weariness on Gu Qixiao¡¯s face and turned away, refusing to look at him further. "You should go back and rest. I don¡¯t need you here. I¡¯ll ask the doctor myself about my conditionter."


    She wasn¡¯t an invalid¡ªshe could handle this herself.


    Yet Gu Qixiao proved to be unreasonably stubborn. "The child is mine, and you¡¯re the one I love. Why should I leave?"


    Wasn¡¯t it perfectly natural for him to care for the person he loved?


    His gaze toward Ji Yu was full of tenderness.


    For reasons she couldn¡¯t exin, Ji Yu found herself unable to reject that gaze.


    Perhaps it was because she¡¯d been far too exhaustedtely, leaving her defenses weakened against such sentiment.


    "Gu Qixiao, there¡¯s no way for us. I¡¯m tired. I don¡¯t want to keep going anymore, so stop looking at me like that," Ji Yu said, voice weary.


    Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t rebut her. Instead, he gently covered her eyes with his hand. "Don¡¯t think about it. If you close your eyes, you won¡¯t see my gaze. You can even pretend you don¡¯t know me if it helps¡ªwhatever it takes to ease the pressure."


    But wasn¡¯t this just self-deception?


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t like this. "Gu Qixiao, why bother?"


    Hershes, like soft brushes, fluttered against his palm.


    No matter how hard Ji Yu tried to push him away with her words, Gu Qixiao couldn¡¯t bring himself to let go.


    "I won¡¯t let you go. You¡¯re mine¡ªwhy should I? Just because the oue might be bad, does that mean I have to follow some predetermined path?"


    He wasmitted to treating Ji Yu well. He didn¡¯t fear rejection¡ªonly apathy from her.


    As long as he could feel her heart, that was enough for him.

 Chapter 157: Helpless

    <h4>Chapter 157: Chapter 157: Helpless</h4>


    This was the first time Ji Yu realized that there really were people who acted without expecting anything in return.


    "Why are you doing all this? Gu Qixiao, don¡¯t you think it¡¯s unfair to yourself?"


    "I do it because it makes me happy." Gu Qixiao cared deeply about Ji Yu¡¯s feelings and knew she probably wasn¡¯t feeling great inside either.


    "Don¡¯t worry, I won¡¯t use any of this to force you, and even if I give so much, I know exactly what I¡¯m doing. I¡¯ve always been clear-headed, so you don¡¯t have to worry."


    When it came to this matter, he was strangely persistent.


    But he remained clear-headed.


    So clear-headed that even though it hurt, he still showed no signs of wanting to give up.


    This time, Ji Yu didn¡¯t say much further; however, her heart felt a little uneasy.


    Even the doctor who came to check on her noticed something was off between the two.


    "Youngdy, your husband treats you very well. He stayed here all night taking care of you. If there¡¯s something wrong, just talk it through. Why fuss over it?"


    "He¡¯s not my husband." Ji Yu didn¡¯t understand why people kept assuming there was a bond between them.


    The doctor¡¯s expression became awkward for a moment. "Ah, is he your boyfriend then? A boyfriend who cares for you this much..."


    Thinking about Ji Yu¡¯s pregnancy, the doctor couldn¡¯t help but find their rtionship somewhat suspicious.


    In the end, the doctor simply shut his mouth.


    He likely mistook them for young lovers who got pregnant before marriage.


    After the doctor left, Gu Qixiao sat silently on the side as though he was flipping through files, though not a single page had actually been turned for quite some time.


    "I want to sleep a bit more. You should rest too; I can tell you probably haven¡¯t slept for a while."


    Otherwise, how could he look like that?


    Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t respond, seemingly agreeing with her statement. Yet, as Ji Yu drifted off to sleep, he still couldn¡¯t help but walk to her bedside.


    Looking at her delicate face, his heart was flooded with mixed emotions.


    Just then, Assistant Li walked in with lunch.


    Seeing the scene before him, he wasn¡¯t sure how to react.


    "President Gu, your lunch delivery."


    "Leave it there. How¡¯s the situation with the Lin family?" he asked in a subdued voice.


    Lately, the Lin family¡¯s actions had been nothing short of outrageous.


    Which meant the contract negotiations were doomed to fail.


    "The Lin family still refuses to terminate the contract. It seems this will require some time to negotiate."


    After all, with the project at a standstill, both families were suffering losses. It was just a matter of when the Lin family would be willing topromise.


    Gu Qixiao wasn¡¯t surprised by this oue. "Keep monitoring their situation closely. Make sure you don¡¯t agree to any of their demands."


    "Understood."


    As Assistant Li left, he caught a glimpse of Gu Qixiao carefully keeping watch at Ji Yu¡¯s side. His concern was in to see.


    It was just unfortunate that when Ji Yu was awake, Gu Qixiao wouldn¡¯t dare show such emotions.


    With a sigh, Assistant Li couldn¡¯t help but think that Gu Qixiao¡¯s path in love was indeed full of hardships.


    After Assistant Li left, the room returned to silence.


    Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t seem inclined to eat his lunch. Instead, he took a short nap on the side bed, only to wake up and realize Ji Yu was already awake.


    She was leaning against the bed, looking at something, though her expression didn¡¯t appear good.


    "Is there anywhere else you feel ufortable? Should I call the doctor?"


    Ji Yu shook her head. Seeing that he¡¯d woken up, she simply asked, "Why did you cancel the coboration with the Lin family so quickly? Did Uncle Gu agree to it?"


    Gu Qixiao assumed she was merely being polite, unaware that she had known his father for quite some time.


    "My dad has always said that in business, you must act decisively before the other side does. Given their personality, it was inevitable that our coboration wouldn¡¯t seed."


    Previously, their rtionship was purely based on mutual interest. But now, things had changed.


    With Ji Yu involved, it was clear they had begun to see him as a threat and would certainly make more moves in the future.


    So there was no point in holding on to the partnership.


    "I didn¡¯t make this decision because of you; it¡¯s simply because they¡¯re problematic from the start."


    Seeing how insistent he was, Ji Yu¡¯s expression softened slightly. Perhaps reality was indeed frustrating; she could only sigh. "Since you¡¯ve made the judgment, let¡¯s deal with this together. But don¡¯t let the Gu family suffer unnecessary losses."


    Despite the friction between them, the Gu family¡¯s interests still couldn¡¯t bepromised.


    Gu Qixiao was surprised, puzzled as to why Ji Yu cared so much about the Gu family¡¯s matters. "Why do you take an interest in this?"


    "Our issues shouldn¡¯t interfere with our families¡¯ businesses. It goes without saying."


    Besides, the Lin family was bothersome for the Ji family too, so the matter had to be dealt with swiftly.


    After agreeing on how to handle the situation, the dynamic between them changed perceptibly. Ji Yu¡¯s gaze toward him grew noticeably moreposed.


    "So now that we¡¯ve agreed to deal with the Lin family together, does this mean we can interact normally from now on?"


    "Of course." Ji Yu was well aware that some things were inevitable, and it was better to address them directly than to keep avoiding them.


    Whatever the intentions might be, at least the current oue was favorable.


    The connection between Gu Qixiao and Ji Yu deepened, and it was increasingly obvious how much he cared for her.


    Even Madam Ji felt it wouldn¡¯t be long before things developed between them.


    "Yu, if you really like Gu, then talk to him properly. He treats you very well and surely wouldn¡¯t mistreat you in the future."


    Ji Yu couldn¡¯t help but recall Madam Ji¡¯s reaction upon learning about her divorce from Gu Qixiao. Thinking about her mother¡¯s current attitude toward him, she almost wanted tough.


    But she held it back. "Mom, aren¡¯t we already working things out? Don¡¯t start thinking about random things."


    She truly was sincere regarding matters involving Gu Qixiao.


    But to avoid running into Mr. Gu, she always made sure to meet Gu Qixiao outside to discuss things.


    It was clear Gu Qixiao was curious about why Ji Yu seemed to know so much about his family.


    "Have you looked into things about my family?"


    Ji Yu thought he was being paranoid again and couldn¡¯t help but roll her eyes. "I don¡¯t care about your family¡¯s business. But the Gu family¡¯s affairs shouldn¡¯t be a secret, should they?"


    Gu Qixiao wasn¡¯t using her. He simply found the whole situation somewhat strange. "That wasn¡¯t what I meant¡ªyou really don¡¯t have to misunderstand me."


    He understood well that Ji Yu wouldn¡¯t have any ulterior motives regarding this, so it had been nothing more than a casual question.

 Chapter 158 Suspicion

    <h4>Chapter 158: Chapter 158 Suspicion</h4>


    "I don¡¯t doubt your intentions, but for me, this situation indeed requires some time to resolve. You shouldn¡¯t think it¡¯s overly difficult either."


    In truth, he didn¡¯t care all that much about the Lin family¡¯s affairs. What mattered more to him was Ji Yu¡¯s attitude¡ªif Ji Yu was particrly concerned about this, he would undoubtedly handle it with care.


    Ji Yu raised her eyebrows slightly, clearly not convinced by his exnation.


    "If you think it¡¯s so easily resolved, then why resort to such tactics?" She wasn¡¯t sure how much this decision had cost the Gu family this time, but judging by Assistant Li¡¯s earlier reaction, it seemed a significant number of people might have serious objections to Gu Qixiao¡¯s decision.


    "Since the decision has already been made, it can¡¯t really be considered a loss anymore. Besides, I¡¯ve encountered simr situations plenty of times before. Even if the cooperation fails midway, it won¡¯t cause us too much loss."


    It was clear that the Lin family would bear the brunt of the losses.


    As the discussion continued, Lin Chujian appeared at Ji Yu¡¯s side. Her expression was grim¡ªthis decision of Gu Qixiao¡¯s was clearly driving her to her wit¡¯s end.


    "It¡¯s one thing if you don¡¯t like me, but why refuse to cooperate with the Lin family?" After learning about the situation, she couldn¡¯t stay calm anymore.


    She had initiated this coboration through their family elder, so a development like this clearly indicated some underlying issues.


    Unable to hold back, she came to confront Gu Qixiao, determined to see how he would exin himself.


    "I really don¡¯t understand why you¡¯re doing this to me. Do you find it amusing?"


    Her attitude toward the matter showed just how much she cared.


    But Gu Qixiao found her reaction utterly baffling. "Didn¡¯t I already tell you earlier? Our cooperation has been canceled."


    Causing amotion now would only embarrass the Lin family further.


    Previously, she thought Gu Qixiao was joking, but the current circumstances made it clear this wasn¡¯t the case.


    "Gu Qixiao, do you even realize how much loss this will cause for both families? I can¡¯t even begin to estimate the responsibilities I¡¯ll have to bear once you withdraw, so you absolutely cannot just walk away."


    Her eyes held a trace of pleading, clearly on the verge of copse over the situation unfolding before her.


    "As long as you don¡¯t cancel the cooperation, I¡¯m willing to do anything."


    Willing to set aside her pride, she begged Gu Qixiao, holding onto the hope that there was still a way to salvage the situation.


    "Sorry, but since your Lin family acted so unjustly first, it¡¯s out of the question for us to cooperate. You don¡¯t have to overthink it; you just need to know that any kind of cooperation between us isn¡¯t going to happen."


    Gu Qixiao¡¯s stance was crystal clear¡ªno further cooperation, period. Regardless of further issues, their past actions alone rendered coboration entirely inappropriate.


    "The moves you¡¯re making now only make you seem pitiful, so stop trying to salvage this cooperation through such gestures."


    He was firm in tone, making it clear that the possibility of a renewed coboration was nonexistent. Lin Chujian¡¯s eyes dimmed with despair; she never imagined that everything she had worked for so persistently would, in Gu Qixiao¡¯s eyes, amount to nothing but a futile and humiliating plea.


    She looked at the two of them with hatred, convinced that they were in the wrong this time.


    "Gu Qixiao! All of this for a woman? Trust me, you¡¯ll regret it. One day, you¡¯ll realize just how important this cooperation was for you."


    She red at them with resentment, as if hoping that intimidation alone might yield a different answer. But Gu Qixiao remained unperturbed.


    "Instead of uttering threats here, why don¡¯t you go ahead and formally terminate the agreement? The longer you dy it, the greater your losses will be. Surely you understand this? Cooperation is impossible, so minimizing the damage is the wisest choice."


    In his view, Lin Chujian should be a rational person, but given her current behavior, her previousposed demeanor might have been nothing more than a fa?ade.


    Ji Yu quietly observed their tense exchange and suddenly realized that Gu Qixiao might actually be right. The copse of the cooperation indeed seemed harsher on the Lin family.


    However, judging by Lin Chujian¡¯s resentful gaze, she likely assumed Ji Yu was behind it all. Otherwise, she wouldn¡¯t hate her so much.


    "Instead of interrogating us here, why don¡¯t you go home and ask your family elder? If he wants to get treated, he should pursue the proper channels. Don¡¯t recklessly think about organ transnts."


    Ji Yu still wore a smile, but it didn¡¯t quite reach her eyes.


    For a moment, Lin Chujian couldn¡¯t even understand what Ji Yu was talking about. She felt the situation was inexplicably bizarre and retorted, "You don¡¯t actually believe the rumors online, do you?"


    "Some things don¡¯te out of nowhere. Think about it yourself." Ji Yu didn¡¯t insist on making her believe the im; she simply wanted to put it out there.


    Lin Chujian began to panic at Ji Yu¡¯s demeanor, feeling as though there was something off about the situation. Why would Ji Yu say such a thing?


    Her flustered reaction didn¡¯t escape Ji Yu¡¯s notice. However, the Gu family¡¯s elder had kept the secret well. The Lin family probably believed the rumors circting online were just baseless nder.


    "Rumors aren¡¯t always false. Who knows¡ªyour family elder might¡¯ve had you all tested forpatibility long ago, only to find none of you matched."


    Ji Yu had predicted as much long ago but still felt a sliver of pity for their plight.


    Anxious yet trying to keep herposure, Lin Chujian refused to let Ji Yu see her distress. "If you won¡¯t go home, fine, but now you¡¯re spreading lies about our elder? You must be out of your mind."


    "Am I crazy, or are you all just clueless? It¡¯s simple¡ªjust go check your family¡¯s medical reports. Why keep deluding yourselves?"


    If their intentions had been genuine, Ji Yu wouldn¡¯t oppose them so strongly. Yet their actions had crossed a line, to the point they filled her with disgust.


    However, this person before her seemed utterly oblivious, failing to grasp the gravity of the situation.


    Lin Chujian¡¯s growing panic was evident. When she left, her steps were unsteady, as if she suspected Ji Yu might be telling the truth.


    But she was still wrestling with doubt inside.


    Ji Yu couldn¡¯t be bothered to dwell on it further. She only hoped they¡¯d figure things out sooner rather thanter.


    "Yu, you need to be extra careful during this time. Judging by the elder¡¯s worsening condition, he probably already essed your records, which is why he sought you out."


    If they tried to force surgery, Ji Yu would be in grave danger.


    This was something Ji Yu had pondered before. "I know, but if they want to make a move, it won¡¯t be out in the open."

 Chapter 159 Negotiations

    <h4>Chapter 159: Chapter 159 Negotiations</h4>


    Obviously, Ji Yu had a good understanding of the other party¡¯s intentions. The Lin family patriarch wanted Ji Yu¡¯s kidney, but he couldn¡¯t take it by force.


    He could only negotiate with the Ji family first, but he didn¡¯t expect the Ji family to be so persistent, so he decided toe and find Ji Yu personally.


    His gaze towards Ji Yu was very murky, an expression unique to patients.


    But Ji Yu didn¡¯t have any sympathy for such a person; how could someone who thought of such a tactic be a good person?


    "You¡¯ve long known I have ulterior motives for finding you, so I¡¯ll just say it directly. You do have some connection to the Lin family, though this rtive is quite distant. The reason I found you is because you have a record at the orphanage."


    Originally, he thought that finding an orphan could resolve this matter smoothly; after all, who doesn¡¯t yearn for familial bonds?


    But Ji Yu happened to be an exception.


    And with his special blood type, he could only seek out Ji Yu.


    "A person approaching with ulterior motives is obvious, especially since your demeanor that day seemed like you were eagerly craving something. I can be sure it wasn¡¯t a longing for a daughter or family ties."


    She¡¯s always been good at judging people, and besides, the Lin patriarch¡¯s appearance already looked strange before.


    Ji Yu has always been cautious about such matters, especially since the Ji family has been genuinely good to her.


    "You¡¯re indeed a smart child, so I¡¯ll say it bluntly. I dide to you for other reasons. But don¡¯t think these matters are so terrible. I just need one kidney from you."


    He spoke lightly, as if it were as simple as eating or drinking.


    But for Ji Yu, it wasn¡¯t just that simple.


    "Do you think I would help you? Is there any false family affection between us?"


    Ji Yu looked at him and found it somewhat amusing. Someone who never wanted any interaction suddenly had other thoughts at this moment; so what would you do?


    "I have no family affection for you, nor any sympathy. To be honest, your situation has no impact on me whatsoever, so I absolutely won¡¯t donate my kidney to you."


    He didn¡¯t panic, knowing that Ji Yu wouldn¡¯t easilypromise when faced with such matters. "I know you¡¯re a strong-willed child, but there are things that just can¡¯t be refused. If you refuse, the Ji family will suffer with you."


    "Really? Is this a threat?" She had never met someone so shameless.


    His attitude was clear; as long as Ji Yu was willing to donate, nothing would happen to the Ji family.


    "Your blood type is quite special, just right for a match with me. I¡¯ve already looked for many people before; you¡¯re myst hope. Do you think I won¡¯t go all out against you?"


    To be honest, Ji Yu really didn¡¯t understand why he was like this.


    Hadn¡¯t he lived long enough at his age?


    "Do you think you¡¯re such a good person by acting this way? Living so long hasn¡¯t any significance."


    She originally had issues with the Lin family patriarch, so her words were blunt, and his expression was not good.


    "You child speak so harshly; I bet your family never taught you manners. I advise you not to talk recklessly."


    He still wanted to live.


    If he didn¡¯t want to live, he wouldn¡¯t havee to find Ji Yu.


    "I need your kidney. All I need is your agreement, and I can protect the Ji family. Don¡¯t you think it¡¯s a good deal? I can even offer you a share of the Lin family¡¯s wealth."


    "Thank you, but I still need to live a little longer." She couldn¡¯t help but roll her eyes, not knowing what exactly this person wanted.


    Is it really that hard to find another suitable kidney?


    "Finding you just means there¡¯s basically no saving me."


    She had her own principles about such things; if it were someone close to her, she would undoubtedly save them, but now there was no familiarity between her and the Lin family patriarch.


    Moreover, she¡¯s pregnant; donating a kidney is practically a death wish.


    "And besides, you should be able to tell that I¡¯m pregnant, shouldn¡¯t you? Isn¡¯t it inappropriate to ask a pregnant woman to donate organs?"


    Perhaps these matters were too urgent for him, so even knowing she was pregnant, he couldn¡¯t wait any longer.


    "The child doesn¡¯t have to be born, but if you refuse to donate, I absolutely won¡¯t wait until your child is born."


    He was already dying. At such an age, having such a disease meant that no matter how much money he had, it wouldn¡¯t sustain him for long.


    Ji Yu raised her eyebrows, seemingly unfazed by such things, "So why do you think your life is more important to me than my child¡¯s?"


    Even if he were really about to die, what did it matter to her?


    "Don¡¯t you think you¡¯re quite selfish?"


    The Lin family patriarch¡¯s emotions were starting to fray upon hearing this. The strong desire to live made him careless in his words.


    "Ji Yu, do you know that by saying this, you¡¯re essentially saying I¡¯m doomed to die? I don¡¯t want to die, and indeed there¡¯s some blood rtionship between us; I¡¯m somewhat your grandfather."


    All he cared about was his own life.


    The child hadn¡¯t even been born yet, so how could there be any sentiment?


    "Once you donate a kidney, you¡¯ll get tremendous wealth. Don¡¯t you think it¡¯s worth it?"


    He just hoped Ji Yu would quickly agree.


    Ji Yu rolled her eyes, "So, how desperate for money do I have to be to trade my unborn child for it?"


    Such things were too cruel for her.


    And besides, swapping kidneys sounds simple, but when faced with such a scenario, wouldn¡¯t refusal be a normal decision?


    "I¡¯ve said all I needed to. Whatever more you have to say has nothing to do with me."


    She didn¡¯t care about these things, and given the situation as it was, the Lin family patriarch had made it explicitly clear that he wanted her child¡¯s life.


    "Sir, one must have their own principles. Consider that you¡¯ve lived to this age; a peaceful death could even be a good thing. Who knows, your family might all be eagerly waiting for your death?"


    Her words contained clear malice.


    When the Lin patriarch mentioned wanting her child¡¯s life, Ji Yu decided that their rtionship was irreparably bad.


    The Lin patriarch was so furious he gasped for breath where he stood, and the staff worried he might faint right then and there.


    "Are you okay, sir?"


    He looked up, his eyes bloodshot, "Do I look like I¡¯m okay?"


    Even now, he still wanted to pretend as if nothing had happened.

 Chapter 160: Onset of Illness

    <h4>Chapter 160: Chapter 160: Onset of Illness</h4>


    The elderly Mr. Lin still acted stubborn even now, appearing almost like a madman in the eyes of the shop assistants.


    "If you¡¯re feeling unwell, we can call an ambnce right now," they said.


    They dared not take the situation lightly, as the frail old man didn¡¯t look very healthy.


    But what Mr. Lin cared about most was others suggesting there was something wrong with him.


    "I¡¯m fine," he retorted sharply, picking up his cane and attempting to leave.


    Yet he had barely reached the doorway, not even managing to open the door, when he copsed in a faint.


    The shop assistants had no choice but to promptly call 120.


    Soon, the incident trended on social media.


    [I didn¡¯t believe it before, but now it¡¯s clear that this guy really has some issues.]


    [The eyes are the window to the soul. Just look at his eyes¡ªhe must have kidney problems.]


    Ji Yu scrolled through thements, aware that this time, Mr. Lin likely wouldn¡¯t make it.


    Gu Qixiao, knowing about their recent meeting, worried whether Ji Yu was in some kind of trouble.


    "What did you talk about during this meeting? Why did he copse at the restaurant entrance?"


    "Maybe I said some truths, and he couldn¡¯t handle it, so he passed out," Ji Yu replied with no remorse. After all, the old man had been after her life, and now she was merely repaying him in kind.


    "The Lin family is probably in for a major upheaval after this."


    Indeed, Ji Yu¡¯s words proved prophetic.


    The Lin family pretended to be grief-stricken upon hearing about Mr. Lin¡¯s condition, though what they truly felt remained known only to themselves.


    "All of you, get out! I¡¯m not sick. Tell the doctor to discharge me immediately!"


    Even now, Mr. Lin clung to the im that he wasn¡¯t ill.


    Lin Wenyan couldn¡¯tprehend how things had escted to this point. Reflecting on Ji Yu¡¯s previous actions, he suddenly understood why she had been so resistant.


    Watching the chaotic scene unfold in the hospital room, he silently retreated.


    On the journey back along a new route, conflicting emotions churned in his heart.


    Meanwhile, Ji Yu was helping Lin Ningning with some basic aftercare. "You must remember, don¡¯t let the wound touch water. If it does, it might leave a scar," she exined patiently, reminding Ningning of the precautions.


    Lin Ningning smiled at her, clearly developing a fondness for her.


    "Big Sister, everyone says you¡¯re my rtive. Is that true?"


    These were words she had overheard from others.


    Ji Yu raised an eyebrow, her smile remaining tender.


    "Of course not. If I truly were your rtive, why wouldn¡¯t I havee back to your family?"


    The girl seemed a bit disappointed but understood Ji Yu¡¯s kind treatment of her. "Big Sister, even if you¡¯re not my family, you¡¯re so good to me. You¡¯re still my big sister."


    Her gaze was resolute, as though she had decided on this matter.


    "Alright then. If you want me to be your big sister, that¡¯s fine. But you have to behave and wait for your wound to healpletely. Don¡¯t go touching it recklessly."


    Ji Yu always showed patience when conversing with children.


    And when Lin Wenyan arrived, what he saw was the harmonious scene of the two together, making his earlier concerns feel suddenly less pressing.


    Ji Yu also noticed his presence.


    "Big Sister will have a word with your dad, and then I¡¯lle back to you, okay?"


    "Big Sister, go ahead. I won¡¯t bother you while you¡¯re busy," the little girl replied sensibly and sweetly.


    Ji Yu knew Lin Wenyan must have a lot on his mind about this visit.


    Seeing theplexity in his eyes, Ji Yu understood clearly that he might also feel powerless in this matter.


    "This issue has nothing to do with either you or me," she stated tly.


    She wasn¡¯t particrly affected by it; she knew that in light of Mr. Lin¡¯s situation being exposed, they would likely me her in some way.


    "I understand you might find all of this hard to ept and want to persuade me to help, but I absolutely won¡¯t donate a kidney to him."


    Whatever Lin Wenyan wanted to say got stuck in his throat. He now understood Ji Yu¡¯s stance on the matter.


    "I never intended to force you to donate a kidney," he replied, though his rtionship with Ji Yu had always been aplicated one.


    Out of consideration for Lin Ningning, he felt he ought not to even bring up such things.


    "I simply find it all bizarre," he added, unable to make sense of how things had spiraled to this point and still confused about the events of the past.


    "You don¡¯t need to understand the things your old man has done. Just know that I won¡¯t provide a kidney for him, and that¡¯s all you need to know," Ji Yu stated bluntly, unwilling to exin further.


    After all, didn¡¯t the current predicament say it all?


    He also understood her point, though he couldn¡¯t fully wrap his mind around it just yet.


    "I get it. Regardless, I still need to thank you for everything this time," he said.


    Their personal grudges wouldn¡¯t interfere with the treatment.


    "Since you know I wouldn¡¯t shirk responsibility for Ningning¡¯s condition due to your old man¡¯s affairs."


    She had already made it clear before that her stance wouldn¡¯t shift due to other matters.


    "But if you think that my rtively mild attitude toward you means you can negotiate with me, then let¡¯s stop right there."


    She understood the situation perfectly.


    This was her stance no matter who she was facing.


    Lin Wenyan himself didn¡¯t know what more he could do to put the matter to rest.


    "Stop dwelling on it," Ji Yu suggested, unwilling to argue further on this subject.


    "Honestly, finding a suitable kidney donor is better than wasting time here pressuring me."


    Lin Wenyan shook his head. "It¡¯s nearly impossible. The old man¡¯s blood type is rare, so finding a matching donor is incredibly difficult."


    He had resigned himself to this reality when he learned the news.


    "I know you¡¯re pregnant, and it¡¯s obvious you won¡¯t agree to donate your kidney to him."


    His voice conveyed a rare understanding, acknowledging that once he knew about Ji Yu¡¯s pregnancy, the idea of pressuring her was off the table.


    "Don¡¯t think all members of the Lin family are unreasonable. On the surface, everyone seems deeply concerned about the old man¡¯s health, but what they truly feel¡ªonly they know."


    Who wouldn¡¯t want a bigger share of the inheritance?


    Moreover, with the old man¡¯s rare blood type, they had enough of an excuse to avoid finding a donor.


    "It seems you¡¯re more rational than they are," Ji Yu remarked, genuinely surprised that someone who looked so intimidating was actually the most reasonable person in their family.


    "It¡¯s only because I¡¯ve been through a lot and havee to understand these things. But honestly, this matter, to me, is no different."


    He admitted to his own inner greed, though this greed would fade when he thought of his daughter.


    So this time, he chose silence¡ªfor his own sake.


    Ji Yu raised an eyebrow, offering no furtherment.

 Chapter 161 Seeking Help

    <h4>Chapter 161: Chapter 161 Seeking Help</h4>


    Even if Lin Wenyan didn¡¯t want to get involved in this matter, Old Master Lin would never give up so easily.


    When he found out that the rtionship between Lin Wenyan and Ji Yu was still somewhat cordial, he arranged for Lin Wenyan to plead her case without hesitation.


    "You push me there. I refuse to believe this girl is truly that heartless. Bring some media along as well, if it¡¯s necessary."


    He had already made up his mind¡ªif he wanted to survive, there was no way he¡¯d casually give up on the household registration issue.


    Old Master Lin¡¯s condition was visibly deteriorating, but his temper was as bad as ever. No one dared to contradict his words.


    Yet Lin Wenyan felt that this seemed too extreme for a young woman. "Old Master, Ji Yu has little to do with our family, and she¡¯s pregnant. Even if you go to her now, it¡¯s unlikely she¡¯ll agree."


    What was happening was fundamentally unfair to Ji Yu.


    Ever since he returned from the hospital that day, Lin Wenyan had already decided to side with Ji Yu.


    Old Master Lin¡¯s cloudy eyes showed anger. "I knew it. You all want me dead. You all want my assets for yourselves. If you refuse to take me to Ji Yu, I¡¯ll donate all of the inheritance and leave none for you."


    After that remark, the room exploded into chaos.


    Everyone urged Lin Wenyan to take the Old Master over as soon as possible. "Isn¡¯t it just about talking nicely to Ji Yu? Negotiate with her, discuss some benefits¡ªmaybe she¡¯ll agree!"


    Whenever their own interests were at stake, they showed extreme concern.


    Looking at their ugly faces, Lin Wenyan was momentarily at a loss for words.


    "Just agree for appearances¡¯ sake. Do you want to be the enemy of the entire family?"


    Someone quietly reminded him from the side.


    Left with little choice, Lin Wenyan took the Old Master and the reporters to Tian¡¯s ce.


    As soon as Tian saw therge group of people, he instantly knew there was trouble. "What¡¯s the meaning of this? Our Sister Yu has been tirelessly helping you take care of your family¡¯s child, and this is how you repay her? Such ungrateful behavior!"


    While sending a message to Ji Yu, he blocked their way.


    The Old Master, looking as though he was on the verge of death, weakly said, "I just want to ask this child to save me. This has nothing to do with Wenyan."


    He appeared frail and pitiful, seated in his wheelchair.


    But Tian and his group were firmly on Ji Yu¡¯s side. Since Ji Yu didn¡¯t want to donate, then so be it.


    When Ji Yu received Tian¡¯s message, she hurried out.


    Seeing such a bustling scene, she couldn¡¯t help but raise her brows, appearing somewhat surprised.


    "Are you here to prosecute me? I merely don¡¯t want to donate, but you use such means¡ªare you trying to force me to donate?"


    The fact that they even thought of such tactics was beyond herprehension.


    But Ji Yu would never be intimidated by such threats.


    Faced with their aggressive posturing, she showed not a trace of fear.


    The Old Master staggered to his feet, trying to appear resolute. "Yu, I know you don¡¯t want to acknowledge me, you don¡¯t want toe back home, and you don¡¯t want to save me¡ªI¡¯vee to terms with all of that. The reason I¡¯m here today is simply to leave proof that you¡¯re a child of the Lin family."


    The reporters were clicking away, taking photos, but Ji Yu¡¯s expression remained unfazed. "I am not your family¡¯s child. Are you certain I looked like this fifteen years ago? And even now, you¡¯re sure I look the same? No issues there at all?"


    She wouldn¡¯t let them continue filming her so recklessly. As for what truly happened back then, whether that child was still alive, only they knew the truth.


    "You think we¡¯re biologically rted, so that makes us family? Since when does society confirm family ties just by looking at a face?"


    She found this logic utterly ridiculous. Previous events had already been proven to be part of a conspiracy, so why pretend to be virtuous now?


    Judging by his current demeanor, Ji Yu didn¡¯t believe Old Master Lin would resign himself to this fate. Whatever he harbored in his heart, only he truly knew.


    "Yu, I don¡¯t mean anything else. I understand your suspicions, they¡¯re normal¡ªbut blood ties cannot be severed. You don¡¯t have to sacrifice anything."


    His bitter smile revealed his inner struggle as he tried to approach Ji Yu and grab her hand. But how could Ji Yu possibly let him touch her? She deftly dodged him without hesitation.


    "You can talk, but no need for physical contact."


    His expression turned sorrowful, as though the circumstances were too tragic to bear.


    Ji Yu had long grown used to this sort of situation. "Stop creating unnecessary drama. Whatever you want to offer, I don¡¯t want it. And stop trying to morally coerce me."


    She felt no moral obligation toward people like them.


    She also knew that after this encounter, the media would likely portray her as a heartless ingrate.


    But it wasn¡¯t the first time Ji Yu had experienced such usations. Even if she were criticized as an ungrateful person, she could face it calmly.


    "Yu, just save the Old Master, won¡¯t you?" Lin Chujian suddenly spoke up.


    Within just a short period, her eyes had welled with tears, as if deeply worried about the Old Master¡¯s plight, alsomenting Ji Yu¡¯s callousness.


    "Donating one kidney to the Old Master won¡¯t kill you. But without your kidney, the Old Master definitely won¡¯tst long. If possible, I¡¯m willing to exchange mine for his sake."


    Her tearful words made her look like the perfect, virtuous child.


    For a moment, Ji Yu found it amusing.


    "Miss, how easy it is for you to make promations while standing there unaffected. Since you know yours can¡¯t be donated, you think you can say whatever you like. But have you ever considered my situation?"


    Ji Yu¡¯s belly had already started to show slightly. They hadn¡¯t noticed it yet, but that didn¡¯t mean Ji Yu wouldn¡¯t address it.


    "You say the Old Master, at his age, must be saved. But what about my child, who hasn¡¯t even been born yet¡ªshould they lose their chance to live?" Her eyes also grew red.


    She seemed on the verge of tears but was holding them back. This made her look far more pitiable than Lin Chujian moments ago.


    She gently stroked her belly, exuding a maternal tenderness unique to expectant mothers. "I can¡¯t bear to lose this child, and I won¡¯t donate my kidney to someone whose identity remains unclear. I just want to live an ordinary life. Is that so wrong?"


    Standing alone in her spot, Ji Yu faced the members of the Lin family lined up across from her, seemingly alone against their bullying.


    Lin Chujian gritted her teeth, convinced that Ji Yu¡¯s performance was exceptionally good.


    "How could you possibly be pregnant? Don¡¯t you stillck a husband?"


    "Who says she doesn¡¯t?" Gu Qixiao arrived just in time, iming both Ji Yu and the child as his own.


    He had expected this family wouldn¡¯t give up so easily, and after catching wind of the situation online, he rushed over.


    Seeing Ji Yu¡¯s red-rimmed eyes, even though he knew it was only an act, he couldn¡¯t help but feel distressed.

 Chapter 162: I Am Her Husband

    <h4>Chapter 162: Chapter 162: I Am Her Husband</h4>


    Gu Qixiao¡¯s arrival made the atmosphere awkward in an instant.


    Especially Lin Chujian, who had just spoken. Her expression turned particrly unpleasant, probably because she couldn¡¯t figure out why he was standing here to speak up for Ji Yu.


    "Gu Qixiao, you haven¡¯t even married Ji Yu. Even if you step in, it¡¯s useless."


    "Why would it be useless? The child in her belly is mine. We¡¯re in love. Isn¡¯t it normal for us to be together?" He spoke with suchposure, as if it were Lin Chujian¡¯s thoughts that were the problem.


    He grabbed Ji Yu¡¯s hand directly, unwilling to let anyone point fingers at her.


    Ji Yu hadn¡¯t expected him to arrive this quickly.


    And that sentence he had just said¡ªit was impossible for her not to take notice.


    "Gu Qixiao, you shouldn¡¯t be getting involved in this. People will misunderstand you."


    She didn¡¯t want Gu Qixiao to get into trouble because of her.


    Today, her confrontation with the members of the Lin family had been an act, trying to push them into the position of the oppressors. Now, Gu Qixiao¡¯s appearance would only cause him to be dragged into the mire.


    "I¡¯m your husband. Why should I fear such misunderstandings?" His gaze toward Ji Yu was resolute, as if standing by her was only natural.


    For a moment, Ji Yu didn¡¯t know how to respond. Perhaps their rtionship had grown to a point where it was no longer just about love.


    "Gu Qixiao, I¡¯ve been your friend for so long. Do you think I wouldn¡¯t know whether or not you¡¯re married?"


    Lin Chujian knew Gu Qixiao very well, so the moment he showed up, she had already deduced that he was here to back Ji Yu.


    "Didn¡¯t you know about my previous marriage?"


    He deliberately left the statement ambiguous.


    Lin Chujian was left speechless. It was true that there had been rumors of Gu Qixiao¡¯s marriage in the past, but she had always thought it was just for show.


    However, the current situation had clearly gone beyond her expectations.


    She looked at Gu Qixiao with aplicated expression. "Gu Qixiao, none of us want to pressure Ji Yu. We only want her to save our family¡¯s patriarch. Donating a kidney won¡¯t kill her."


    Ji Yu gripped Gu Qixiao¡¯s hand tightly, her gaze toward the others tinged with fear. "I know you want me to save him, and I know donating a kidney won¡¯t kill me. But who will take responsibility for my child? Even on public buses, pregnant women are offered seats. Now, I¡¯m pregnant¡ªdoesn¡¯t that make me as important as your patriarch?"


    Not everything should default to siding with the weaker party.


    Hearing Ji Yu¡¯s words, Lin Chujian thought she was being unreasonable, even iprehensible.


    "Ji Yu, this child hasn¡¯t even been born. It doesn¡¯t count as a real person yet. Even if you and Gu Qixiao want children in the future, it wouldn¡¯t be hard. Why can¡¯t you save a life right now?"


    Her tone was casual, fully aware that this matter might already be a topic of online debate. Whether the child should be kept would ultimately depend on Gu Qixiao and Ji Yu¡¯s stance.


    "So our opinions don¡¯t count as opinions? Only you Lin family people deserve to live? You can¡¯t even provide a paternity test to prove I¡¯m one of you, yet you¡¯re trying to make decisions for my child as well?"


    Tears finally rolled down Ji Yu¡¯s face.


    Even though Gu Qixiao knew there was a performative element to her reaction, seeing her like this still tugged at his heart.


    "We don¡¯t mean anything else. We just want you to make the right decision. Our family has made mistakes before, but the patriarch¡¯s life is very important to us."


    Lin Patriarch yed up his weakness, looking especially frail.


    Seeing Ji Yu remain indifferent, he stepped directly in front of her this time. Instead of trying to grab her hand, he took out his trump card.


    At his age, for him to kneel before Ji Yu like this¡ªhow could she not understand?


    They were resorting to moral ckmail now.


    "What is the meaning of this?" Ji Yu¡¯s cold gaze swept over the people before her, finding the scene in front of her utterly absurd.


    "I only ask you to give me hope to live. I truly didn¡¯t know you were pregnant, but you and Gu still have your youth. You can have more children in the future. If you¡¯re willing to save me, I¡¯m willing to transfer 5% of thepany¡¯s shares to your name anytime."


    The Lin family¡¯s 5% share was no small sum.


    Ji Yu was momentarily taken aback by his generosity, but she quickly regained herposure. "I don¡¯t need it."


    Gu Qixiao stepped forward to help him up. "Patriarch Lin, to coerce a mother into abandoning her child with such a method¡ªisn¡¯t that a bit too much?"


    Lin Patriarch red viciously at Gu Qixiao, clearly displeased with his stance. "Gu Qixiao, think carefully about which side you¡¯re on."


    After all, they were supposed to be coborators of sorts.


    "I¡¯m on the side of my heart."


    His heart told him, every second of every day, that he should stand by Ji Yu.


    And sacrificing his child to save Lin Patriarch was something he couldn¡¯t bring himself to do.


    "Patriarch Lin, do you think weck money? Didn¡¯t you just promise not to let Yu pay any price? Why are you retracting that within ten minutes?"


    He stood directly in front of Lin Patriarch, with no intention of backing down.


    "When you say something, especially at your age, you have to follow through. You just said you wouldn¡¯t trouble Yu¡ªso why are you kneeling before her now?" He found this entire situation nothing short of moral ckmail.


    "At your age, you should focus on taking care of yourself. Kneeling like this is bad for your health. Even if time is pressing, you should at least wait until Yu gives birth and recovers. So, no¡ªthis matter is non-negotiable."


    Saying this, he turned to Lin Wenyan and Lin Chujian. "You don¡¯t need to say anything else. It¡¯s not Yu refusing you¡ªit¡¯s me. Whatever issue you have, you can take it up with me."


    Ji Yu¡¯s situation was untenable to begin with, and now they wanted to harass her in such a manner. Clearly, the issuey with them.


    The scene froze in awkwardness. No one had expected Gu Qixiao to step forward like this, shielding Ji Yu from all the malicious gossip.


    Even Ji Yu hadn¡¯t expected him to do so.


    "If you still have any grievances, speak now. And those videos you¡¯re recording¡ªmake sure to include this part. I don¡¯t need you to fabricate anything; just report the events as they truly are."


    He was determined to see who dared spread ridiculous rumorster.


    The reporters, knowing full well who Gu Qixiao was, suddenly looked deeply ufortable. They had been paid off, but now they didn¡¯t know how to proceed.


    "What¡¯s the matter? Can¡¯t meet such a simple request? Or have journalists nowadays lost all interest in the truth?"

 Chapter 163: What is the Truth?

    <h4>Chapter 163: Chapter 163: What is the Truth?</h4>


    "The things they¡¯ve done are seriouslycking in decency."


    Ji Yu looked at the situation in front of her and couldn¡¯t help but feel a headacheing on. She didn¡¯t understand how everything ultimately ended up on Gu Qixiao.


    The situation was already spiraling out of control.


    Helpless, Ji Yu could only pull Gu Qixiao back into the office.


    "You don¡¯t need to think too much about what I just said. If they dare to post false information online, they must have the courage to face the consequences."


    These were not matters that anyone could simply fabricate rumors about.


    Ji Yu felt a bit troubled. What worried her was obviously not this. "I just feel that you¡¯re being too reckless this time. Taking all these matters upon yourself¡ªthose people will definitely cause trouble for youter."


    Such situations were challenging for Ji Yu to manage, but it was different for Gu Qixiao. These people had no connection to Gu Qixiao at all, not even as familiar business partners.


    So him speaking out about these matters wouldn¡¯t be a problem.


    "They¡¯re trying to guilt you through moral coercion because, in their eyes, you¡¯re rted to them by blood. But I¡¯m different."


    That¡¯s why this approach was the best.


    For a moment, Ji Yu didn¡¯t know what to say.


    "Gu Qixiao, thank you." In the end, she still expressed her gratitude.


    "If you know to thank me, then don¡¯t let this kind of fear take hold of your heart again in the future. Be a little fairer to me, alright?" He knew Ji Yu had feelings for him. Otherwise, she wouldn¡¯t have hesitated for so long.


    The torment between the two of them was rather excruciating, so he wanted to stay by Ji Yu¡¯s side.


    This time, Ji Yu didn¡¯t refute him. Instead, she tacitly agreed to his request. Perhaps the two of them really did need to think things through properly.


    "Let me take you home. If theye looking for you again, they¡¯ll definitely cause more trouble."


    He wanted to escort Ji Yu back home.


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t reject his offer, either.


    However, as they were heading back, before their unresolved issues could even be addressed, they saw Feng Qinqin and Ji Yuanzhou standing not far away.


    Feng Qinqin was crying so hard she could barely breathe, while Ji Yuanzhou stood there at aplete loss, looking like something was amiss.


    "Are the two of them together?" Gu Qixiao was obviously somewhat surprised, but his ability to ept such developments was still quite high.


    Ji Yu thought back to what had happened earlier and suddenly understood why Feng Qinqin had mentioned having someone she liked but never told her who it was¡ªit turned out to be Ji Yuanzhou.


    At the thought of this, Ji Yu felt another headacheing on. On one side was her close friend, and on the other was Ji Yuanzhou. She truly didn¡¯t know whose side she should take.


    But seeing Feng Qinqin cry so miserably, Ji Yu couldn¡¯t just stand by idly. She had no choice but to get out of the car and ask what was going on.


    Feng Qinqin¡¯s face was awash in tears, and when she saw Ji Yu, she instinctively tried to turn away.


    "I just saw everything. When did you two be a thing? And why do you avoid me when you see me? This is something you could have told me. Do you think I would oppose the two of you?"


    Now that she had seen it, there was no denying how strange it all seemed.


    Feng Qinqin rushed forward and hugged Ji Yu, crying her heart out. "Yuyu, I never want to have anything to do with him again. If he doesn¡¯t like me, then I won¡¯t like him anymore either."


    Feelings are only sweet when they¡¯re mutual. Situations like this naturally leave a bitter taste.


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t know what to say. She mainly didn¡¯t understand what had happened between the two of them to cause things to suddenly turn out this way.


    "Let¡¯s not talk about anything else for now. Let¡¯s go to my ce and discuss this properly. At the very least, you should tell me what¡¯s going on."


    These two seemingly unrted people¡ªhow did they end up entangled together?


    Ji Yu couldn¡¯t make sense of it at all. And judging by Ji Yuanzhou¡¯s demeanor, it wasn¡¯t as if he had no feelings at all¡ªhe just found certain things too difficult to put into words.


    Feng Qinqin obediently followed Ji Yu back to her room. Ji Yuanzhou tried to go after them, but Gu Qixiao blocked his way. "Since you¡¯ve already made your decision, why continue with actions that give the other person false hope?"


    Wouldn¡¯t that only make things even more unbearable?


    This time, Ji Yuanzhou didn¡¯t know how to defend himself. Perhaps their encounter had been a mistake from the very beginning. That night, after getting drunk, he hadn¡¯t anticipated things would end up this way.


    "Yu will handle this."


    Ji Yuanzhou didn¡¯t say a word, sitting down on the nearby sofa.


    After a while, seeing that Gu Qixiao still had no intention of leaving, he couldn¡¯t help but feel a bit exasperated. "Why are you still here?"


    "I¡¯m waiting for Yu to finish dealing with Feng Qinqin¡¯s situation. I¡¯m worried about her safety. Old Master Lin is alreadypletely out of options. If, by chance, he tries something aggressive and resorts to kidnapping, what am I supposed to do?"


    He was concerned about everything around Ji Yu.


    Ji Yuanzhou frowned. Recently, the Lin family had indeed been making moves, constantly threatening them. But how could they possibly give up Ji Yu over such matters?


    "Whatever they dare to do next, Old Master Lin¡¯s life won¡¯t be spared."


    Given Old Master Lin¡¯s current condition, even if a kidney donor were found, his physical state made it unlikely he¡¯d survive for long. Why continue to torment others?


    "Some people cling to life and death matters with extraordinary obsession." Gu Qixiao sighed, finding Old Master Lin¡¯s behavior strangely iprehensible.


    How could someone hold such a fanatical attachment to questions of life and death?


    Meanwhile, Ji Yu and Feng Qinqin ignored their conversation entirely, waiting until Feng Qinqin had cried herself out to broach the topic of Ji Yuanzhou.


    "Yuyu, I¡¯m sorry. I know you¡¯ve been incredibly busytely, and now you have to deal with my problems on top of everything. Maybe I shouldn¡¯t have told you."


    She also knew the Lin family was tough to deal with and that the Ji family¡¯s predicament was their doing.


    Ji Yu sighed. "We¡¯re best friends. These things are important to me too, so don¡¯t ever think of yourself as a burden."


    She pulled Feng Qinqin aside, hoping the girl could ease her mental burden. After all, everyone struggles with feelings from time to time.


    "I really do like Ji Yuanzhou, but you¡¯ve probably noticed¡ªhe doesn¡¯t like me. To him, I¡¯m probably just the redundant one."


    At the thought of this, her eyes couldn¡¯t help reddening again, as though this situation were unbearable.


    "Yuyu, I don¡¯t even know what to say anymore. I¡¯mpletely disappointed in him. I don¡¯t need you to mediate anything."


    Some things simply aren¡¯t meant to be, and forcing them would only make things worse. It¡¯s better to face reality and stop prolonging the pain.


    "From what I¡¯ve seen, my brother¡¯s feelings for you may not be entirely absent."


    Otherwise, Ji Yuanzhou wouldn¡¯t have been so flustered just now.

 Chapter 164: Lack of Understanding

    <h4>Chapter 164: Chapter 164: Lack of Understanding</h4>


    Ji Yu understood Feng Qinqin¡¯s personality. She tended to retreat when faced with situations like this, but since she was still entangled, it actually meant she didn¡¯t want to give up yet.


    "But Yuyu, his attitude toward me is just too cold. I can¡¯t hold on anymore. After all this time, I¡¯ve been waiting for him to take the initiative, but he¡¯s been avoiding me the whole time. Maybe he doesn¡¯t need my feelings after all."


    As Feng Qinqin said this, she let out a self-deprecatingugh, as if mocking herself for all the things she¡¯d done up until now.


    Those events were still vivid in her mind, yet the current circumstances had reached a point where it was absolutely impossible between the two of them.


    Her heart ached terribly, but she couldn¡¯t find the words to express herself.


    "Yuyu, I¡¯ve made up my mind long ago. If he was willing to be with me, I could overlook whether there¡¯s love or not. But now, it seems I was wrong."


    Matters of the heart are impossible for anyone to reason out.


    Ji Yu couldn¡¯t bear to see her in such pain, "Alright, I¡¯ll ask my brother what¡¯s going on. If you want to give up, I won¡¯t stop you, but you can¡¯t just give up without rity."


    This time Feng Qinqin didn¡¯t refuse, perhaps still holding onto the hope that there was a chance to salvage the situation.


    "You should rest for now, wash your face, and stop crying like this. I¡¯ll go see what¡¯s really happening. We shouldn¡¯t make any decisions in haste."


    She went downstairs, ready to have a serious talk with Ji Yuanzhou.


    To her surprise, Gu Qixiao was downstairs as well. She looked at him in shock, "Why are you still here?"


    "I was worried about your safety, so I decided to stay a bit longer."


    In truth, he just wanted another chance to see Ji Yu.


    Ji Yu understood his intentions but wanted him to leave for now. "We¡¯ll talk about this tomorrow. I need to have a serious conversation with my brother and Qinqin first."


    After all, the matter between her best friend and her brother required careful handling.


    Though reluctant, Gu Qixiao couldn¡¯t do much but agree when he saw Ji Yu¡¯s determined expression.


    "Tomorrow, don¡¯t go to the hospital. I¡¯ve already arranged for my people to keep an eye on the surroundings. If they dare make a move, my people will stop them."


    He had long prepared everything for Ji Yu.


    Ji Yu felt grateful toward him. "Gu Qixiao, you don¡¯t have to worry so much. Maybe they won¡¯t resort to such measures after all?"


    Previously, it might have been unlikely. But this time, when Ji Yu rejected the proposal, it was clear there would be no chance to reconcile. The Lin family patriarch was near death; he wouldn¡¯t care whether his actions werewful or not.


    "Whatever the case, it¡¯s better to be cautious," he said.


    He didn¡¯t want Ji Yu to face any trouble.


    Before leaving, he reminded Ji Yu that no matter what happened, she should contact him immediately.


    "Got it. I¡¯m going to check on my brother now to see what¡¯s going on."


    With that, Ji Yu hurriedly closed the door behind her.


    Gu Qixiao felt a bit helpless but also considered it fortunate that Ji Yu was upied today. At least she didn¡¯t have to face the maliciousments from so-calledizens.


    Assistant Li approached Gu Qixiao and reported on the online situation.


    "From what they¡¯re saying now, it seems there isn¡¯t much hostility toward Miss Ji. After all, she¡¯s still pregnant, and they can understand that aspect of the situation."


    Gu Qixiao wasn¡¯t surprised by this.


    "Keep an eye on the Lin family¡¯s hired trolls. Don¡¯t let them sway public opinion in their favor."


    In this era, online attacks can indeed destroy a person.


    Assistant Li nodded and focused on overseeing the matter.


    Meanwhile, Ji Yu really didn¡¯t have time to pay attention to such things. She was more intent on finding out where Ji Yuanzhou stood.


    "Brother, if you don¡¯t like Qinqin, why not just say it outright? The way you¡¯re handling someone who has feelings for you¡ªdon¡¯t you think it¡¯s too cruel?"


    Honestly, not even Ji Yuanzhou truly understood his own feelings. He had always believed that in this lifetime, the only person he might love was Ji Yu. When he learned Ji Yu had someone she liked, he was willing to step back into the role of her brother.


    But when he met Feng Qinqin, he did feel conflicted. He couldn¡¯t figure out whether or not he should pursue a rtionship with her.


    "I don¡¯t know how to exin this, but do you think the Ji family is in a position right now to involve ourselves with others? I don¡¯t know how long the Lin family will continue like this. Her being close to me might not be a good thing."


    "So you resort to saying hurtful things and distancing yourself from her?" Ji Yu found it hard to believe; this kind of behavior was downright puzzling.


    "Brother, don¡¯t you think you¡¯re being cruel? Besides, does Qinqin strike you as someone who¡¯s scared of things like this? Plus, the Lin family patriarch¡¯s target is me; it has nothing to do with either of you."


    She had long grown ustomed to the Lin patriarch¡¯s tactics.


    And regardless of past issues, as long as people take the time to truly understand each other, everything can be sorted out.


    Ji Yuanzhou seemed to realize that something was amiss. "Yu, I don¡¯t want to drag anyone down. And I can¡¯t be sure if I really care for her."


    "Unsure whether you like her or not? Then imagine Qinqin with someone else. How would you feel about that? Then you¡¯ll know whether you like her."


    Such matters are simple enough. One just has to understand their own feelings and the sincerity they¡¯re willing to invest.


    Upon hearing this, Ji Yuanzhou¡¯s expression turned conflicted. It seemed he had realized that he did have feelings for Feng Qinqin after all. He had just spent so much time suppressing them that he¡¯d mistaken his judgment.


    "If you like her, then be brave about it. No one expects you to love just one person your entire life. Finding someone you like¡ªisn¡¯t that a wonderful thing?"


    Love shared between two people is the most beautiful thing.


    Even so, Ji Yuanzhou didn¡¯t respond. Ji Yu grew anxious watching him, "You keep hesitating like this, and when your wife runs off, don¡¯t me me. Qinqin was crying so hard earlier, you saw it yourself. She probably won¡¯t even acknowledge you after this."


    In truth, he didn¡¯t want Feng Qinqin to cry, but these matters were difficult to resolve.


    "I can¡¯t give her the future she wants. So it¡¯s better for me to step back now."


    At that, Ji Yu could hardly be bothered to say more. She returned to her room upstairs to discuss the situation with Feng Qinqin.


    "Qinqin, some people you can¡¯t coddle. Since my brother is being indecisive, why don¡¯t you pretend not to like him anymore? Who knows, maybe you¡¯ll meet someone you like even more?" In truth, she knew Feng Qinqin took rtionships seriously.


    There was no way she¡¯d casually fall for someone else.


    "Yuyu, I really am tired. This kind of rtionship just doesn¡¯t suit me. If I could leave it behind, there¡¯s no way I¡¯d still be struggling now."


    She wanted to let go, but she couldn¡¯t shake the lingering attachment.

 Chapter 165: Sadness

    <h4>Chapter 165: Chapter 165: Sadness</h4>


    "Painful things will eventually pass. You can live however you like, just don¡¯t ever wrong yourself for anyone."


    Ji Yu understood this very well.


    Seeing the sadness in her expression, she decided not to press further.


    Rtionships during a time like this are like drinking water¡ªonly you know whether it¡¯s cold or warm.


    "I just want a good night¡¯s sleep. Yuyu, I¡¯ll stay at your ce tonight."


    She didn¡¯t want to dwell on these things anymore. Her heart resisted the thought of it all, but she couldn¡¯t figure out a solution to these problems either.


    Ji Yu looked at her in that state and felt a headacheing on. Letting her sleep here peacefully seemed like the best option.


    "But make sure to call me if you go out. The Lin family has been acting outtely, and I¡¯m not sure if they¡¯ll take action directly."


    If they targeted someone close to her, who knows what might happen?


    Feng Qinqin nodded to show she understood.


    That night, Ji Yu stayed by Feng Qinqin¡¯s side the entire time, afraid something might really happen.


    Fortunately, Feng Qinqin wasn¡¯t too fragile; by the next morning, she had mostly recovered.


    Though when she saw Ji Yuanzhou, she was particrly cold toward him.


    "Do you need something?" Ji Yuanzhou hesitated for a moment, not daring to speak too freely as he looked at her.


    Perhaps there really was an issue with theirmunication, which had led to the current awkward state. "I just wanted to say sorry to you."


    In his mind, this apology was necessary.


    Feng Qinqin let out a coldugh. "Oh, thank you very much for your apology. At least you know you wronged me. But I don¡¯t need your apology. From now on, we have nothing to do with each other."


    Their rtionship had been unclear from the start, so ending it was probably for the best.


    Once she figured that out, she stopped caring so much about Ji Yuanzhou.


    Coincidentally, Ji Yu had also woken up and, seeing the two of them standing on the stairs like that, understood everything without needing further exnation.


    "Yuyu, I¡¯m heading back. You take care of yourself too." She still hadpany matters to deal with.


    Ji Yu looked somewhat uneasy. "I¡¯ll call a driver to take you back."


    "Alright."


    As Feng Qinqin walked away, Ji Yuanzhou kept watching her leave.


    Ji Yu looked at him with a hint of frustration. "Brother, if you actually like her, then go after her. With an attitude like that, how could she possibly know how you feel?"


    Shouldn¡¯t love be expressed directly?


    If no one even knows that love existed, wouldn¡¯t that be unbearably sad?


    Ji Yuanzhou didn¡¯t understand why things had turned out this way and wasn¡¯t sure what he was feeling inside. "Yu, give me some time to process this. My mind¡¯s a mess, and I don¡¯t even know what I¡¯m doing."


    But all of this was giving him a splitting headache.


    Seeing Ji Yuanzhou in such a state, Ji Yu didn¡¯t know how she felt either.


    "Brother, no matter what, you should at least try. Everyone has the right to go after the person they love. Acting like this will only make you lose more."


    Once you¡¯ve lost something, it¡¯s nearly impossible to get it back, and that kind of regret bes unbearable.


    The situation before them left Ji Yuanzhou feeling helpless, so he decided to change the subject. "Did you meet with Old Mr. Lin yesterday?"


    "Yeah, it¡¯s probably still trending online, isn¡¯t it? Honestly, the tactics they¡¯re using can¡¯t morally ckmail me."


    As long as she didn¡¯t care about morality, no matter how many tricks they yed, they¡¯d always end up the same way.


    And surely they were aware of how terrible this looked?


    They knew very well, but they just wanted to use public opinion as a weapon to pressure Ji Yu.


    "Even if I weren¡¯t pregnant, I would never donate my kidney to people like that."


    It had been a scam from the very beginning¡ªdid anyone seriously believe in it?


    Of course not.


    Ji Yuanzhou was worried Ji Yu might be the target of their attacks.


    "They¡¯ll definitely hire trolls. I¡¯m concerned you¡¯ll get ridiculed, and even Congxin Hospital might face bacsh."


    "Congxin won¡¯t crumble from this. All those patientse from our hospital, don¡¯t they? Don¡¯t they have family or friends who n toe to us in the future?" Ji Yu¡¯s confidence in this regard was unwavering.


    No matter what happened, she didn¡¯t think there was any need to deal with it in such a way.


    "There¡¯s no way they can bring down Congxin. Besides, the Lin family seems to be having some internal problemstely."


    She had already assigned Hong to investigate, but so far, there hadn¡¯t been any results.


    "Anyway, you still need to be cautious. At least when you¡¯re home, I can keep an eye on you."


    But clearly, Ji Yu was never short of people to protect her.


    Gu Qixiao, just as he had said the day before, was already waiting at the door early in the morning.


    When he saw Ji Yu, he smiled and greeted her.


    "Why are you here so early?" Ji Yu had thought he would send someone to keep her safe; she hadn¡¯t expected him toe personally.


    "Thepany matters and my father¡¯s arrangements are handled, so I naturally have time to see you." Knowing Ji Yu was in danger recently, he had passed thepany affairs to Mr. Gu to manage.


    Ji Yu was a bit surprised but also knew Gu Qixiao had always been serious about such matters. "It¡¯s really not necessary."


    She didn¡¯t think they would continue to cause trouble at Congxin.


    After all, Congxin had connections, and those waiting in line for surgeries would surely be outraged upon learning about their schemes.


    "Being by your side won¡¯t disrupt your work. Don¡¯t worry about it."


    She didn¡¯t feel Gu Qixiao would interfere with her work.


    What she was more concerned about was how much he had already dyed his own matters for her.


    "Didn¡¯t President Gu say you were handling this wrong?"


    "In my father¡¯s eyes, cutting off business partners like this quickly is a good thing. If someone operates with such underhanded intentions, it¡¯s only a matter of time before it backfires on them." Gu Qixiao wasn¡¯t particrly moved by any of this.


    Ji Yu sighed. By now, she fully understood the temperaments of Gu Qixiao and his father. It really was true: like father, like son.


    "Gu Qixiao, why are you doing this?"


    "You¡¯re the woman I¡¯ve set my mind on as my future wife. So no matter what happens, staying by your side is what I should do. And didn¡¯t you say you¡¯d give me a chance to try?" He wasn¡¯t going to let this opportunity slip away.


    Ji Yu was speechless. When she said "try," was this what she meant?


    Wasn¡¯t she referring to their work coboration?


    But when he called her "wife," she couldn¡¯t help but feel a pang in her heart. If Gu Qixiao found out she was his unseen wife from the past, what kind of expression would he make?


    "Gu Qixiao, have you ever regretted anything in life?"


    "No." For him, anything he did was not something worth regretting.


    "You will someday." If he had looked just once back then, things wouldn¡¯t have escted to this point.

 Chapter 166 Regretful Matters

    <h4>Chapter 166: Chapter 166 Regretful Matters</h4>


    Gu Qixiao was a bit perplexed, but seeing Ji Yu like this, he couldn¡¯t help but be curious¡ªwhat exactly had happened to make her feel so regretful?


    "Let¡¯s not talk about this anymore. You¡¯ll find outter. Just drop me off at Chongxin Hospital first; I have some patients to see."


    She took her work very seriously.


    Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t press further, instinctively feeling that the situation was unlikely.


    However, perhaps because the news online had spread too widely recently, the entrance to Chongxin Hospital was crowded with people.


    It looked as if they were ready to corner Ji Yu and interrogate her thoroughly.


    Ji Yu felt deeply helpless about such situations.


    She couldn¡¯t figure out what was wrong with these people.


    "Could you all please move aside? This is a hospital, not a ce for your interviews. If you continue causing trouble here, don¡¯t me me for calling the police to handle this."


    She was here to treat patients, not to give interviews.


    "Miss Ji, we¡¯re just trying to ask a few questions. Don¡¯t you want to rify things? The rumors online about you and Mr. Lin are spreading like wildfire. Don¡¯t you think you owe everyone an exnation?"


    Of course, they weren¡¯t nning to leave.


    In fact, their microphones were practically shoved into Ji Yu¡¯s face.


    Gu Qixiao, watching this scene unfold, felt irritated and immediately ordered his bodyguards to block them off.


    Ji Yu cast them a nce, noting the eager glint in their eyes, and felt utterly exasperated. "To be honest, interviews like yours are pointless. As for my rtionship with Mr. Lin, while I wouldn¡¯t say we¡¯re enemies, we¡¯re definitely not on good terms."


    "But isn¡¯t there a familial connection between you and Mr. Lin?"


    "Is that so? Do they even have any evidence? Just one photo and they want to im I¡¯m rted to their family? If that¡¯s the case, I might as well say I¡¯m the richest person in the world." She was eager to ridicule the whole photo incident.


    Following the bodyguards inside, she clearly didn¡¯t intend to answer any more questions.


    "Miss Ji, as a doctor, are you really going to just stand by and let Mr. Lin die? Don¡¯t you have anypassion as a healer?"


    "So now you think I should use my child to save the life of someone I don¡¯t have a good rtionship with?" Ji Yu found this unbelievably absurd.


    She thought her protectiveness of her child was justified. And Mr. Lin¡ªwhat was he to her, anyway?


    The door closed, cutting off the reporters¡¯ voices entirely, leaving Ji Yu with a headache.


    "Thank you. I¡¯ve already called the police, and no one causing trouble here at Chongxin today will get away."


    Ji Yu wasn¡¯t someone who would quietly endure bullying without fighting back. As for Gu Qixiao, he had remained silent throughout, though his displeasure was evident in the furrow of his brow.


    "These people have no professional ethics whatsoever."


    "Maybe the Lin family arranged all this on purpose. They¡¯re known for employing such underhanded tactics." Ji Yu felt equally frustrated¡ªwhy had this shameless family targeted her of all people?


    "They must have found out about me through other channels. Otherwise, they wouldn¡¯t have gotten hold of that photo. I¡¯m seriously questioning the authenticity of this entire thing."


    She wasn¡¯t sure how Mr. Lin and his family had obtained their information, but now that things hade to this, she could only use her own tactics to handle them.


    "Don¡¯t worry. I¡¯ll always be here by your side," Gu Qixiao said, stepping forward to grip Ji Yu¡¯s wrist.


    This time, she didn¡¯t pull away, clearly growing more ustomed to his presence.


    A faint smile tugged at the corner of Gu Qixiao¡¯s lips. He knew all his efforts over the past while hadn¡¯t been in vain.


    The tension between the two had eased considerably by now.


    In a way, this incident could be considered somewhat beneficial.


    Gu Qixiao remained by Ji Yu¡¯s side as he got acquainted with Ningning. He didn¡¯t pry too much into her identity, but judging by Ji Yu¡¯s attitude, it seemed she didn¡¯t care about it either.


    "Do you want to ask about the little girl¡¯s identity? Honestly, no matter how deeply she¡¯s connected to the Lin family, she¡¯s just one of my patients now."


    Ji Yu approached her work with genuine dedication, ensuring that no matter what happened, she wouldn¡¯t take out her frustrations on her patients.


    The little girl, evidently aware of the rumors online, looked at Ji Yu with timid eyes.


    "Sis, do you not get along well with our family? Please don¡¯t be mad."


    She didn¡¯t know how to talk to Ji Yu, only realizing that the current situation was quite awkward.


    "Sis isn¡¯t angry, just annoyed by some people. But don¡¯t worry. Sis will take good care of you, so stop overthinking, okay?"


    After all, this had nothing to do with the little girl.


    Lin Ningning nodded, looking rather helpless. She likely understood all too well what her family was like. But Ji Yu genuinely couldn¡¯t make sense of the situation herself.


    Anyone could see through this nonsense¡ªexcept Mr. Lin, who stubbornly believed it could all be resolved smoothly.


    But Ji Yu refrained from saying too much in front of Lin Ningning.


    On the way back, she casually brought up Lin Wenyan with Gu Qixiao. "Lin Wenyan is actually a rtively normal person. Even though he seems a little gruff on the surface, at least when ites to dealing with this matter, he¡¯s the most reasonable of them all."


    "Still, Lin Wenyan doesn¡¯t hold much influence in the Lin family. After this, I suspect things will only get worse for him."


    Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t have a strong impression of Lin Wenyan. "If you keep the little girl here, Lin Wenyan definitely wouldn¡¯t stand on the Lin family¡¯s side. His daughter means everything to him."


    He had heard some things about Lin Wenyan before. "Lin Wenyan¡¯s wife passed away after giving birth to this child, so the little girl is incredibly important to him."


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t know this. However, she had noticed how much Lin Wenyan cared for the child.


    "Still, he¡¯s of limited use."


    When Lin Wenyan entered, thest thing he heard was thatment, which left him looking embarrassed. "Doctor Ji, you can¡¯t say that¡ªI can at least bring you some updates."


    He nced awkwardly at Ji Yu, seemingly seeking her affirmation.


    Ji Yu¡¯s attitude was nomittal. "I won¡¯t take advantage of your daughter, and she¡¯s recovering well. Don¡¯t you realize that?"


    She had taken good care of Lin Ningning.


    But it was precisely this that made Lin Wenyan feel increasingly guilty toward Ji Yu.


    "They haven¡¯t given up on targeting you yet. Be careful when you go out. Most importantly, they¡¯ve stationed people in the shadows who are waiting for an opportunity to strike against you." He seemed reluctant to speak as he said this.


    "I¡¯ve already done some investigating. You really aren¡¯t part of our Lin family. At most, you¡¯re a distant rtive so unrted it doesn¡¯t matter."

 Chapter 167: No Blood Relation

    <h4>Chapter 167: Chapter 167: No Blood Rtion</h4>


    Ji Yu thought these things were quite normal.


    "You can already tell I don¡¯t look anything like your family. Actually, I have no connection to your family whatsoever."


    She didn¡¯t like the Lin family at all, harboring a deep-seated sense of repulsion toward them.


    "Besides, you must¡¯ve seen the news about me online before, right? If you think about it carefully, this whole scheme probably only came up after you saw me online."


    Old Master Lin¡¯s n was indeed meticulous.


    Finding someone like Ji Yu, who had no family since she was a child¡ªnormally, with a bit of maniption, it¡¯d be easy to make here back with them.


    Wouldn¡¯t that make her easy to exploit?


    But Ji Yu waspletely different from what they had imagined. Even though she had never met her biological parents, every person in her life had loved her deeply.


    "Given Old Master Lin¡¯s current condition, I doubt he¡¯llst until my child is born. If he wants my child¡¯s life, let¡¯s see if he really has that kind of ability."


    Ji Yu was still smiling, but her words had long lost any semnce of amiability.


    For a moment, Lin Wenyan didn¡¯t know how to respond.


    No one had probably expected Ji Yu to be such a tough nut to crack.


    Gu Qixiao hadn¡¯t forgotten what Lin Wenyan had just said. "In that case, if you¡¯ve got anything useful to share, just spill it. After all, Yu has been helping you take care of a child for so long."


    He knew Ji Yu thought of such things as her duty.


    But he believed the things Ji Yu did deserved repayment.


    "I don¡¯t have anything for now. When I do, I¡¯ll definitely inform you. I only hope you¡¯ll show some mercy to the Lin family."


    He understood that Gu Qixiao had been itching to act against the Lin family recently.


    Gu Qixiao stayed fairly calm.


    But that didn¡¯t mean there wouldn¡¯t be subtle moves happening behind the scenes.


    The trio briefly discussed the Lin family¡¯s affairs. Both Gu Qixiao and Ji Yu felt that the Lin family was likely nning some big move.


    Sure enough, as they were heading back, the inte had already exploded.


    ording to the Lin family, Ji Yu was their child. Old Master Lin was now critically ill, apanied by a photo of him in the emergency room.


    It made it seem like Ji Yu was incredibly unkind toward Old Master Lin.


    [Honestly, doesn¡¯t this seem like Ji¡¯s fault? If she truly wasn¡¯t rted to them, it¡¯d be fine not to respond, but this is her biological grandfather we¡¯re talking about.]


    [Why do I feel like they look nothing alike though?]


    [The key point is Ji herself said she has no rtion to their family, didn¡¯t she?]


    [But there¡¯s a paternity test right here. Could that possibly be fake?]


    Ji Yu looked at the exceptionally convincing forged paternity test and was quite curious about what other tricks they were nning to pull.


    Why were they using such tactics to frame her as being in the wrong?


    She quickly received a call from Old Master Lin.


    The voice on the other end, while weak, didn¡¯t sound nearly as bad as depicted in the photo.


    "Do you think this has any meaning? Even if the fake paternity test is shown to everyone, I will never be your granddaughter. What you¡¯ve said has no impact on me."


    She detested such fabrications.


    "Ji Yu, even now you¡¯re being so stubborn. Do you not realize that once this matter is confirmed, you¡¯ll be cursed and condemned by countless people?"


    "Oh, I know. And what¡¯s the problem with that?" Ji Yu seemed rather intrigued by this notion.


    "Will they stoping to my hospital for surgeries? Or are they going toe up with something else to say?"


    To be honest, in her eyes, this level of attack wasn¡¯t even enough to fill the gaps between her teeth.


    For her, these scenarios were nothing more than an appetizer.


    "What do you mean?" Old Master Lin seemed momentarily unable to process her response.


    A man who valued reputation so highly¡ªhow could he not care about matters of public perception?


    Ji Yu wasn¡¯t concerned at all about how much trouble these things might bring her. "If you want to publish it, then go ahead. Let them scold me all they want. I¡¯m curious to see if they¡¯ll manage to scold me to death, or if you¡¯ll be the one who can¡¯t hold on first."


    As long as her mindset stayed calm, these things wouldn¡¯t faze her in the slightest.


    Even Old Master Lin was momentarily speechless, stunned by Ji Yu¡¯s audacity. "Girl, don¡¯t you care about your reputation? If you¡¯re nning to marry Gu Qixiao, you absolutely can¡¯t drag this kind of infamy into it."


    Before Gu Qixiao could retort, he heard Ji Yu mercilessly respond, "If he can¡¯t ept this version of me, then I can absolutely choose not to ept him. Do you think I¡¯m someone who needs a marriage or a man to live a good life?"


    She had her own confidence. No matter how much happened, she couldn¡¯t fullyprehend the fuss over these issues.


    "Feel free to go ahead and orchestrate these things. From my perspective, they¡¯re no big deal at all."


    She had already faced countless simr situations. Thinking back on it, no matter how intense the bullets flying her way seemed, they could never really hit their mark so quickly.


    Old Master Lin was at a loss for words. Perhaps he had never imagined that Ji Yu would be so indifferent about everything.


    At this rate, Ji Yu truly wouldn¡¯t be affected in the slightest. His own health, however, might give out first.


    "You..."


    He wanted to say something more.


    But Ji Yu hung up just then.


    She never intended to engage with him in the first ce.


    Her aim in saying those things was purely to provoke him.


    Old Master Lin was so angry that he began taking in oxygen again, his clouded eyes filled with resentment toward Ji Yu.


    Lin Chujian, seeing Old Master Lin in such a state, felt it was his own fault for stirring up trouble. At a time like this, why would he still bother to provoke Ji Yu? Didn¡¯t he understand that Ji Yu was never someone to be trifled with?


    "Old Master, you should rest properly. I¡¯m going to check on matters at thepany."


    In truth, she didn¡¯t really care whether Old Master Lin lived or died. She merely wanted to make Ji Yu¡¯s life harder.


    But Ji Yu was proving to be tougher than she had anticipated.


    Just thinking about it made Lin Chujian¡¯s heart twist ufortably.


    When she thought about Ji Yu and Gu Qixiao¡¯s rtionship, she sought Gu Qixiao out once again.


    Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t even look at her. "Assistant Li, have security downstairs escort her out immediately."


    He walked into the office building without sparing her a nce, his manner one ofplete disdain.


    If she was upset, too bad for her¡ªthere¡¯d be no other oue.


    "Gu Qixiao, I just want to say a few words to you. Do you have to treat me like this? Don¡¯t you care about Ji Yu¡¯s safety?"


    "Do I care about her safety? I know better than you ever could." He was fully aware of what Ji Yu had been up to recently.


    In fact, he had already stationed his people around Ji Yu. The moment any suspicious individual appeared, they¡¯d be intercepted immediately, leaving absolutely no chance for them to get close to her.


    "Gu Qixiao, are you that confident? If something happens to Ji Yu, you¡¯ll regret it for the rest of your life!"


    This chapter is updated by freew(e)bnovel.(c)om

 Chapter 168 Conversation

    <h4>Chapter 168: Chapter 168 Conversation</h4>


    Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t react upon hearing those words. He simply instructed his men to continue keeping an eye on Ji Yu.


    At the slightest sign of trouble, they were to notify him immediately.


    As for the things Lin Chujian said, he didn¡¯t dismiss them entirely, because he knew such circumstances were bound to happen. That¡¯s why he chose to ignore Lin Chujian.


    But she, apparently having plenty of time, really waited downstairs all night.


    When she saw him, there was a hopeful glimmer in her eyes. "Gu Qixiao, I hope you can listen to me properly. I know you must despise the Lin family, but this matter isn¡¯t what you think it is."


    As she said this, she approached Gu Qixiao and even grabbed his sleeve.


    Gu Qixiao expressionlessly pulled her hand away. "I don¡¯t care whether the Lin family is good or bad. Once you¡¯ve taken things to this extent, don¡¯t even dream of turning back."


    Since they wanted to make a move against Ji Yu, they were simply asking for trouble with him.


    Lin Chujian froze momentarily, unable to believe he would say such a thing.


    "When did you be someone without principles?" She couldn¡¯t believe those words hade out of Gu Qixiao¡¯s mouth.


    Gu Qixiao had always maintained the same attitude toward everything, never showing favoritism toward anyone.


    Even Song Xuan hadn¡¯t received such treatment in the past.


    "Don¡¯t you think Ji Yu is at fault too? Even if she didn¡¯t want to help the old man, she shouldn¡¯t have resorted to such measures."


    "The child in her womb is mine. Do you think I should side with Lin Lao Ye, or with my child and the woman I love?" Gu Qixiao calmly delivered this bombshell.


    Previously, Lin Chujian had assumed Gu Qixiao was simply trying to defend Ji Yu when he imed the child was his. But now, this scene didn¡¯t align with her expectations.


    "How could this be?" Her expression turned dazed.


    "Weren¡¯t you the type who wouldn¡¯t randomly get involved with women? When did things between you and Ji Yu even start..."


    Gu Qixiao¡¯s attitude toward the matter remained unwaveringly firm.


    "You don¡¯t need to know. Now you understand why I¡¯m siding with Ji Yu, right? If you get it, then leave now. Stop wasting everyone¡¯s time. Even if you still want to coborate, I won¡¯t agree."


    What had been said before would not be renegotiated.


    "Even if Ji Yu doesn¡¯t love you, will you still stay by her side?" These words cut through her like a knife.


    But Gu Qixiao couldn¡¯t care less about her feelings or consider her behavior worthwhile.


    "There¡¯s no need to face me with that posture. You¡¯re a very strong-willed person. Why do you show such weakness when dealing with this matter?"


    Making clean, decisive choices can actually be quite good.


    At least then, there would be no further losses.


    Looking at the current situation, didn¡¯t she know it was hopeless?


    Yet she still insisted on pursuing it this way.


    He no longer showed any friendliness toward Lin Chujian.


    Though past events had indeed left asting impression.


    "Whether or not you¡¯re a good person has nothing to do with me. I only know that your current behavior poses a threat to Yu."


    There weren¡¯t any other reasons to exin this.


    He simply liked Ji Yu.


    "No matter how much you do, it¡¯s meaningless to me. I hope you don¡¯te looking for me again."


    Such things would only seem absurd to him.


    "Do you think what you¡¯re doing now has any use? The only result will be the cancetion of our coboration."


    Dragging things out further would only lead to greater losses for both families.


    For the first time, Lin Chujian feltpletely powerless.


    "Why am I treating you like this? Don¡¯t you understand?" Her love was so obvious, yet some pretended not to see it.


    There was a hint of sorrow in her brow.


    "I¡¯ve finally realized you can never wake someone pretending to sleep. I knew you would never treat the person you love in this manner."


    When he liked someone, he could be this passionate. It was just that the person wasn¡¯t her.


    "What do you mean by that? I know you might have a bit of affection for me, but those feelings must¡¯ve spanned many phases for you, right?"


    He¡¯d always understood what Lin Chujian was aiming for, but he had no intention of responding. There was absolutely no chance between the two of them.


    Lin Chujian scoffed. "Yeah, with so many options, why did I end up fixated on you? I always knew someone like you wouldn¡¯t be simple."


    There¡¯s always so much misery to endure.


    "Since that¡¯s the case, our coboration ends here. I hope you won¡¯t regret it. After all, this matter will lead to considerable losses for both families. To go to such lengths for a woman, I can only say your priorities seem off."


    Who gives up such a crucial coboration for the sake of a woman?


    Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t care about her assessment. He even thought there was nothing wrong with it.


    "Although I don¡¯t wish to judge the Lin family, I¡¯ve seen everything you¡¯ve done before. Since issues of integrity have arisen, continuing this coboration is impossible."


    This was the unspoken rule between them. The Lin family simply chose to forget and disregard it.


    Upon hearing this, Lin Chujian¡¯s expression became stiff and unnatural.


    "Don¡¯t you think this is ridiculous? Who hasn¡¯t done things like that? What do you mean by integrity issues? The truth is, the Lin family¡¯s people only wanted a chance to save the old man."


    Was it wrong to want to save someone?


    "And besides, how could businessmen let integrity dictate their actions?"


    The principle of "no businessmancks treachery" ¡ª did he not understand this?


    "I don¡¯t care how you handle business with others. For me, this matter is unnecessary."


    Since they vited this fundamental issue, the contract had to be terminated immediately.


    "I ept these losses."


    Some things are just that simple.


    No matter how much they miprehended him, Gu Qixiao wouldn¡¯t change his mind.


    He got into his car without hesitation.


    Lin Chujian stared at his silhouette, dazed. She¡¯d never imagined things between them woulde to this. Once, she had stayed by his side as a good friend. Now, she couldn¡¯t even keep him as a friend.


    "You¡¯ll regret this." She muttered softly.


    Whether she was addressing Gu Qixiao or herself, she wasn¡¯t entirely sure.


    Perhaps only her own heart truly understood.

 Chapter 169: Concerned

    <h4>Chapter 169: Chapter 169: Concerned</h4>


    Gu Qixiao wasn¡¯t affected by this incident at all.


    After work, he went straight to Chongxin.


    Seeing Ji Yu¡¯s slightly rounded belly, his heart finally found some peace.


    "Why did youe so early today?" Ji Yu looked at him, puzzled by the dazed look at the door.


    "I finished everything today and came to check on you. Besides, I¡¯m worried they might pull something else."


    Who knows what the Lin family might do?


    Ji Yu gave a helpless smile, "Why are all of you so worried about my safety?"


    But actually, it¡¯s been pretty quiet these past few days. Perhaps they¡¯re nning some big move.


    Even though the online drama had been blowing up, it hadn¡¯t disturbed her life.


    "Be careful; your belly is starting to show a bit. I¡¯m worried it¡¯ll inconvenience youter." He knew pregnancy was tough, and his eyes were full of heartbreak.


    Ji Yu felt a stir of emotion in her heart, "Actually, this baby is very well-behaved and hasn¡¯t caused me much trouble."


    Her pregnancy symptoms were barely noticeable.


    Hearing this, Gu Qixiao felt slightly reassured.


    "Seems the child understands their parents¡¯ intentions and knows not to give you trouble unnecessarily."


    He didn¡¯t forget to tell Ji Yu about seeing Lin Chujian today.


    "Judging from Lin Chujian¡¯s attitude, the Lin family likely hasn¡¯t given up on rescuing Old Master Lin."


    But logically, wouldn¡¯t they hope for something to happen to Old Master Lin instead?


    After all, while Old Master Lin is still around, the assets under their hands aren¡¯t really theirs, and there¡¯s always the risk of unexpected changes.


    "Perhaps Old Master Lin doesn¡¯t hold anything that incriminates them. After all, for someone at his age to still be in control, he surely has a few cards up his sleeve."


    Old Master Lin was a capable and calcting person, though he had lived an unfortunate life.


    "Anyone who can reach that position must have contingency ns."


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t offer any furtherment, only finding the situation unfortunate.


    "Maybe things will progress to this point and they¡¯ll be forced to look for other kidney sources."


    As they were chatting, Gu Qixiao¡¯s phone rang.


    Hearing the sobbing from the other end of the line, his expression turned sour.


    "I told them to take good care of you. You just need to stay at school. Why are you calling toin again?"


    He felt perplexed. Everything at school had been arranged for Song Xuan, and the teachers wouldn¡¯t dare mistreat her.


    Yet, every time Song Xuan called, it was to say that ssmates and teachers were excluding her and doing outrageous things to her.


    "Xiao, please take me back. I really don¡¯t want to stay here anymore. They¡¯re all devils! They act so nice in front of you, but behind your back, they keep bullying me."


    She sobbed as she spoke.


    "Are you aware that I also have a copy of the surveince tapes from your school?" Which meant he knew everything that happened while she was there.


    He was very clear about the kind of life she was living at school.


    "Do you understand how much damage your statements could do to your teachers? If I didn¡¯t have the surveince, I might misunderstand, too."


    Such usations could ruin a teacher¡¯s career.


    Song Xuan was speechless.


    "But Xiao, I just want toe back. I promise I won¡¯t cause any more trouble. Please let mee back¡ªI¡¯ve truly learned my lesson."


    She didn¡¯t want to stay here any longer, cut off from Gu Qixiao.


    She realized that staying at school meant hopelessness for her and no chance to develop her rtionship with Gu Qixiao¡ªonly watching him and Ji Yu together from afar.


    "Xiao, I know you still have some grievances against me. I¡¯ll change, I swear. Could you talk to Doctor Ji about this? I just want toe back, that¡¯s all. I promise I wouldn¡¯t do anything excessive toward her."


    She understood that Ji Yu might be able to influence Gu Qixiao.


    But how could Ji Yu possibly help her? After learning about her nature, Ji Yu only wanted to keep her distance from such a lunatic.


    "Xiao, I¡¯m sick. My mind is all over the ce right now. Why don¡¯t youe and see me? I really don¡¯t know what else to do..."


    In the end, she was still the sister of his benefactor.


    Even if Gu Qixiao wanted her to live a normal life, he couldn¡¯t simply ignore this kind of situation.


    "I¡¯lle over to see you in a while. You¡¯d better sort out everything you want to say."


    Looking at Ji Yu next to him, he felt an apologetic pang, "Sorry, Yu. I might need to check on what¡¯s going on with Song Xuan today."


    Ji Yu had heard their entire conversation loud and clear.


    "If you have something to deal with, go ahead. I can get home on my own, and I have many people around me to keep me safe. Nothing will happen."


    Situations like these couldn¡¯t be forced.


    Gu Qixiao was worried but had no choice but to prioritize checking on Song Xuan¡¯s situation first.


    When Song Xuan saw Gu Qixiao, she immediately started crying. "Xiao, I really don¡¯t want to stay here anymore. Wouldn¡¯t living together be better? I know you have some grievances against me, but I¡¯ll change, really."


    She knew her tears were always effective with him.


    "I was so impulsive before only because I didn¡¯t want you to like anyone else. Now I¡¯ve epted it¡ªI know it¡¯s never going to happen between us."


    Gu Qixiao found her hard to believe.


    "Are you really thinking that way?" It all felt a little strange.


    After all, people say it¡¯s hard to change one¡¯s nature, and yet she was suddenly acting as though she¡¯d bepletelypliant. How could this not seem suspicious?


    "Xiao, after living here for a while, I¡¯ve missed you terribly, so I¡¯ve decided to change for you."


    Her eyes were filled with deep affection.


    "I know I can¡¯t have you, so let me just wish you and Ji Yu a lifetime of happiness."


    She seemed so earnest and fervent.


    For a moment, Gu Qixiao couldn¡¯t tell whether she was acting or genuinely meant what she was saying.


    "Xiao, please just trust me one more time. I know staying here has been a hassle for you."


    This time, Gu Qixiao finally agreed, but he made it clear that there would be strict conditions moving forward.


    "When youe back, your movements will be much freer. But I¡¯ll prepare a small apartment for you, and you¡¯ll have to live there."


    The matter between them needed to be sorted out properly.


    "I believe you understand very well where things stand between me and Ji Yu."


    There was no need to deliberate further.


    Her expression froze for a moment.


    But thinking about the chance to no longer stay at school, she could only grit her teeth and ask, "Could I visit you sometimes when I want toe back?"


    She had to lower herself in pleading.


    "Fine."

 Chapter 170: Something Happened

    <h4>Chapter 170: Chapter 170: Something Happened</h4>


    He always treated Song Xuan as his own little sister.


    "I don¡¯t know what you¡¯ve been through during this time, but I hope you¡¯ve matured a bit. Stop thinking everything in this world is ck and white, and that if you want something, you can always make it happen."


    She felt unwilling, but still nodded to indicate she understood.


    The two of them packed up their belongings and returned to the vi together.


    Gu Qixiao felt that something was bound to happen today, his mood restless.


    Sure enough, as soon as he arrived home, Assistant Li called.


    "President Gu, the Ji family just called to ask if Miss Ji is with you."


    A deafening roar went off in his mind, as if something had exploded inside him.


    "President Gu, are you still there?" Assistant Li, hearing no response for a long moment, thought perhaps he hadn¡¯t been paying attention.


    Gu Qixiao¡¯s fingers trembled slightly. "Find her."


    Even his voice was shaking.


    After all, how could anyone remain calm after learning the person they cherish had gone missing?


    Assistant Li was also conscious of the gravity of the situation. The most likely culprit for such an act was the Lin family.


    When Gu Qixiao rushed to the Ji family¡¯s house, Ji Yuanzhou was already frantic. "Wasn¡¯t Yu supposed to being back with you? Howe you¡¯re here, but Yu hasn¡¯t shown up?"


    He red viciously at Gu Qixiao, clearly at the peak of his anger.


    Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t even know what to say to exin the situation.


    The Ji family parents were moreposed, understanding that interrogating anyone at this moment wouldn¡¯t achieve anything.


    "Finding Yu is the priority."


    With no leads on their end, they were relying entirely on Gu Qixiao.


    "My men have always followed her closely. Logically, nothing should have happened, unless something unexpected urred midway."


    And still, he hadn¡¯t received any response from his bodyguards yet.


    "Start by searching near the police station. Yu usually takes a specific route home, so any clues should be there."


    Gu Qixiao was certain this must have been orchestrated by the Lin family.


    "I¡¯ll head to the Lin family first."


    He needed to confront them for answers.


    Clearly, the Lin family had been waiting for him, knowing he would inevitablye looking.


    "President Gu, is there something troubling you?"


    Lin Chujian no longer appeared as disheveled as she had the day before. From the panicked look on his face, she could immediately tell he was worried about Ji Yu.


    "Stop pretending. Return her to us now, and we can still talk this through reasonably. If you refuse, don¡¯t me me for what happens."


    He hadn¡¯t exercised his full power in a long time.


    But if the Lin family pushed too far, this matter wouldn¡¯t end peacefully.


    "President Gu, aren¡¯t you afraid that while you¡¯re taking action, Ji Yu will already have turned into a pile of bones?"


    She showed no fear of his threats and freely admitted that Ji Yu was indeed in their hands.


    "And don¡¯t assume this is such a simple matter. To our family, the patriarch¡¯s health is more important than anything. Besides, this isn¡¯t as serious as you think it is."


    What could have been resolved through cooperation now required forceful measures, leaving her feeling helpless.


    "Once the surgery is over, naturally you¡¯ll see your beloved. Just don¡¯t be surprised if by then certain ¡¯unexpected events¡¯ ur."


    Veins bulged at Gu Qixiao¡¯s temple, visibly showing his fury.


    "If you don¡¯t release her today, there will be no future for the Lin family."


    As he uttered those words, his tone carried an unmistakable threat.


    Lin Chujian had never seen him like this before.


    "Gu Qixiao, so you can be this crazy for one person? I thought you were always so cold, distant, and indifferent."


    She remained unfazed by his menace.


    "While you¡¯re wasting time talking to me here, Ji Yu might already have been wheeled onto the operating table."


    Gu Qixiao suddenly seized her neck in a tight grip.


    "Do you think I won¡¯t actually kill you?"


    Her expression dimmed. "Why would I ever think you don¡¯t have the guts to kill? With your infamous reputation, how could I forget who you really are?"


    Gu Qixiao, known for his decisive and ruthless actions, couldn¡¯t possibly let this go.


    "Release her now, or there will be consequences for the Lin family."


    "Don¡¯t me me. Honestly, I don¡¯t even know where she is." Her eyes glinted with a vengeful satisfaction.


    Evidently, she believed this would be the best way to hurt Gu Qixiao.


    Gu Qixiao¡¯s face contorted with hostility.


    Lin Wenyan arrived and was taken aback by the scene.


    "What¡¯s going on here? I know where Ji Yu is. Come with me."


    He hadn¡¯t expected Gu Qixiao to be this furious, showing such a murderous intensity.


    "You better be telling the truth." At this point, he didn¡¯t care who the person was; as long as they were connected to the Lin family, they were his enemy.


    Lin Wenyan sighed with helplessness, understanding anyone would react this way given the circumstances.


    "I¡¯m telling the truth. I also understand your desperation. When she was brought over, she was already unconscious. She should be in the patriarch¡¯s hospital room now."


    In fact, Ji Yu had already woken up.


    Looking at her surroundings, she quickly understood where she was.


    Old Master Lin¡¯s murky eyes suddenly gleamed with hope.


    "See, I told you sooner orter you¡¯d end up at my bedside."


    He seemed extraordinarily smug about it.


    "So what? Do you think I¡¯d actually give you that chance?"


    There are some things where one¡¯s integrity outweighs survival.


    "Look at yourself now. Even if you get the kidney transnt, there¡¯s no guarantee you¡¯ll survive. A body like yours is bound to experience severe rejection."


    Some people refuse to ept their fate.


    "Don¡¯t you think living like this is pure torture?"


    His body was covered in tubes, merely clinging to life.


    "Nonsense!" Old Master Lin clearly cared deeply about this and refused to hear such curses.


    "Ji Yu, how dare you talk like this when you¡¯re at death¡¯s door? Soon, both of your kidneys will be transnted into me."


    He had no intention of letting Ji Yu walk out alive.


    Having invested so much effort, how could he allow her to leave so easily?


    Ji Yu couldn¡¯t help but roll her eyes.


    "Honestly, you¡¯re the most clueless patient I¡¯ve ever seen. Transnting both kidneys at once increases the risk of death."


    This was something the old man had likely never understood.


    "Do you think kidnapping me means I have no way out? As long as I can resist, I¡¯ll ensure you don¡¯t seed."


    Looking at the elderly man, teetering on the brink of death, she couldn¡¯t understand his obsession with clinging to life.


    "A swift death wouldn¡¯t necessarily be a bad experience."


    At least when she grew old, she would never opt to endure such suffering.


    "You wouldn¡¯t understand. With so much wealth to my name, how can I die so easily?" he shouted hoarsely.

 Chapter 171: Unwilling to Accept

    <h4>Chapter 171: Chapter 171: Unwilling to ept</h4>


    He refused to simply die, that¡¯s why he desperately wanted to hold onto Ji Yu.


    In fact, he did seed.


    But this time, things might not be turning out as he expected.


    "Do you think holding onto me will give you a chance to survive?"


    She acted with suchposure.


    So much so that even Old Man Lin began to suspect that something had gone wrong somewhere.


    "What do you mean?"


    The doctor was still preparing for the surgery, and there was nothing he could do despite his urgency.


    "What do you think?" Ji Yu leaned casually against the chair nearby, staring at Old Man Lin. That gaze made him feel a chill, as though Ji Yu knew everything.


    And she seemed to anticipate what might happen next.


    He quickly called for someone to fetch the doctor, hoping the surgery could be performed as soon as possible.


    "Your condition needs to be stabilized first; otherwise, the surgical risks will be extremely high." The doctor, though helpless, knew Old Man Lin was anxious, but certain things couldn¡¯t be hurried.


    If they operated now, it might even hasten Old Man Lin¡¯s death.


    He dared not say this directly, only hinting at it subtly.


    Old Man Lin furrowed his brows, his expression ufortable, "How much longer?"


    He feared dys andplications, especially seeing Ji Yu¡¯s expression; he felt there might be something hidden here.


    Ji Yu continued to smile faintly from the side, seemingly amused by Old Man Lin¡¯s behavior, "Old Man Lin, no matter how worried you are, you should trust the doctor. Given your current condition, it¡¯s already fortunate enough they¡¯re willing to perform surgery on you."


    One foot was already in the grave, yet he still wanted to stir up trouble¡ªit was a testament to his audacity.


    The doctor looked awkward, but he knew Ji Yu was right.


    Still, Old Man Lin kept pushing them, and even the medical staff were feeling the pressure.


    Old Man Lin scowled, clearly displeased, "Arrange it as soon as possible."


    He worried that Gu Qixiao and his people might show up, and if something really happened, Ji Yu would likely be better protected.


    Ji Yu paid him no attention. Already exhausted, she simply rested on the side.


    Even if she didn¡¯t factor in her own physical condition, she needed to consider her child.


    The calmer Ji Yu appeared, the more suspicious Old Man Lin became, even wondering if Ji Yu had deliberately been caught.


    His breath grew heavier, his speech weak andbored, "What on earth do you want, girl?"


    Ji Yu raised an eyebrow, her expression tinged with surprise, as though puzzled by his question, "You dragged me here to ask what I want¡ªdon¡¯t you find it a bit absurd?"


    But perhaps due to his deteriorating health, he was bing increasingly paranoid, constantly thinking that anything not going as nned spelled trouble.


    Ji Yu knew his condition well enough, "Honestly, someone in your state has no reason to keep pushing yourself. Your body might not even hold up long enough toplete the surgery."


    Such surgeries ce substantial demands on the patient.


    Ji Yu looked at him, resembling a withered old tree, and could only deduce that his persistence held no value whatsoever.


    "Wanting to survive is understandable, but using someone else¡¯s life to sustain yours is not."


    Her child would not be sacrificed for someone like him.


    Old Man Lin¡¯s breathing quickened, his skeletal hands seeming as though they wanted to grasp her throat, but Ji Yu stood just out of reach, and he couldn¡¯t get near her no matter how hard he tried.


    "Save your strength. You might just live a little longer that way."


    She might hold back her other words, but she certainly knew how to infuriate him.


    The question now was how long she nned on staying here.


    Meanwhile, Gu Qixiao had already arrived at the hospital under Lin Wenyan¡¯s guidance.


    The hospital staff recognized Lin Wenyan, but when they saw Gu Qixiao, they hesitated, "Old Man Lin instructed us not to let outsiders in. This gentleman is...?"


    Without saying a word, Gu Qixiao signaled his bodyguards to take the lead, clearing the path ahead. Other details were not worth deliberating over¡ªthe involvement of these doctors as aplices was a matter forter. Ji Yu¡¯s situation needed resolving immediately.


    Lin Wenyan, witnessing this, appeared helpless. But judging by Gu Qixiao¡¯s demeanor, it seemed there was no reasoning with him; he had no choice but to let Gu Qixiao barge in.


    Themotion was impossible for Old Man Lin not to notice. Immediately, he ordered Ji Yu be moved elsewhere.


    "As long as she¡¯s alive."


    All he needed was Ji Yu¡¯s kidney¡ªnothing else mattered.


    When Gu Qixiao arrived, the room was already empty.


    Seeing this, his expression turned icy cold.


    "Where is she?" He shot Old Man Lin a frosty gaze, clearly convinced they¡¯d hidden her away.


    Old Man Lin, however, remained unnerved, "I don¡¯t know what you¡¯re talking about. Ever since I fell sick, I haven¡¯t allowed outsiders to visit. What is the meaning of this?"


    Despite being weakened, his air of superiority as a ruler persisted even when facing Gu Qixiao.


    But dealing with someone like Gu Qixiao was never easy, and Old Man Lin knew full well that Gu Qixiao¡¯s power was boundless. He wasn¡¯t eager to confront him directly, at least not now.


    Gu Qixiao let out a cold snort, clearly unimpressed by his excuses, "You¡¯d better hand her over quickly, or I wouldn¡¯t mind sending you off right here and now."


    He nced at the dying man on the bed, fully aware of what mattered most to him.


    Old Man Lin let out a painful cough, evidently flustered by the situation, "Gu Qixiao, what do you mean?"


    All he wanted was to keep living.


    Gu Qixiao sneered coldly, "Let me spell it out for you¡ªyou should know I could kill you right now."


    It seemed without such threats, they wouldn¡¯tprehend that some lines were only being held back for the sake of avoiding excessive bloodshed.


    As for where the men hidden under hismand might be, Gu Qixiao hadn¡¯t found any clues just yet.


    Old Man Lin coughed violently, his frail voice trembling as he responded, "I don¡¯t know what you mean. When have I ever captured Ji Yu? And why are you here with Lin Wenyan?"


    Clearly, he held strong grievances against Lin Wenyan.


    Lin Wenyan also looked conflicted¡ªon one side was Old Man Lin, on the other Ji Yu. Both were important figures in his life.


    "Old Master, since Ji Yu doesn¡¯t agree to it, let¡¯s just let this matter go. I know you¡¯re unwilling, but we are already searching for other kidney donors. We¡¯ll make sure you¡¯re not left without options."


    He tried his best to persuade Old Man Lin.


    But Old Man Lin¡¯s attitude remained stubborn.


    "I don¡¯t understand what you¡¯re saying."


    He didn¡¯t admit anything¡ªafter all, what could these people dare to do?


    Gu Qixiao¡¯s expression grew colder at his disy, "It seems Old Man Lin enjoys being stubborn. In that case, why don¡¯t youe with me for a proper chat? We¡¯ll see whether you truly did nothing or whether you hid her away. We¡¯ll get to the truth then."

 Chapter 172: Coercion

    <h4>Chapter 172: Chapter 172: Coercion</h4>


    As he spoke, he ordered the bodyguards to directly lift Old Master Lin from his bed.


    Old Master Lin¡¯s face was filled with shock, as if he couldn¡¯t fathom such a situation unfolding.


    "What are you trying to do?"


    "Didn¡¯t I already say? I just want to have a proper conversation with you. Don¡¯t worry, my methods won¡¯t kill you right away." His expression was indifferent as he spoke casually.


    Old Master Lin¡¯s expression became unsightly, and he even began to cough violently, clearly on the verge of copse.


    When the doctor entered and saw the scene, he was stunned. "What are you doing? The patient¡¯s condition is critical, how dare you move him like this?"


    Isn¡¯t this essentially trying to take Old Master Lin¡¯s life?


    Gu Qixiao looked at them, his face emotionless.


    "As long as you hand over the person today, I don¡¯t want to cause trouble. But if you persist in stubbornly lying, I will definitely take him with me."


    He showed no emotions, yet Old Master Lin could feel his cruelty.


    For him to act this way toward an old man in such a condition, it was evident how furious Gu Qixiao was.


    Lin Wenyan, on the other hand, was tempted to intervene and stop him.


    "Old Master, just tell them. Hand over the person, and they won¡¯t make things difficult for you."


    But Old Master Lin refused to cooperate. "What nonsense are you spouting? When have I ever taken Ji Yu?"


    He red at Lin Wenyan viciously¡ªas if his strength to rebut only surfaced in moments like this.


    Clearly, though, Gu Qixiao wasn¡¯t fazed by such denials. "Do you think acting this way serves any purpose? Your underlings have already taken Yu to your vi. Even if you drop dead now, rest assured, I will still find her."


    He was entirely unaffected by Old Master Lin¡¯s stubbornness.


    Before Old Master Lin could respond, Gu Qixiao¡¯s phone rang.


    Seeing it was Song Xuan calling, he hung up without hesitation.


    "Carry on." He watched everything before him with a nk expression, waiting to see how long it would take for Old Master Lin to start talking.


    Old Master Lin looked baffled. "What exactly are you trying to do?"


    "It seems your illness has rendered you incapable of understanding me." Gu Qixiao sighed, seeming exasperated by the situation.


    "Since you¡¯re incapable of understanding, let¡¯s take you back and have a proper talk. Eventually, you¡¯ll understand." He seemed resolute in his decision.


    As it became clear that Old Master Lin was about to be forcibly taken, the hospital staff dared not intervene, leaving the old man to fend for himself.


    After a bout of violent coughing, Old Master Lin finally spoke. "Even if you take my life, there¡¯s no way Ji Yu can return now. If I die, she won¡¯t live, either."


    He red at Gu Qixiao with ferocity, as though certain he wouldn¡¯t dare take such a risk.


    Gu Qixiao frowned, his gaze filled with irritation at Old Master Lin¡¯s machinations.


    "You want to threaten me? Fine. When the timees, Ji Yu can be buried with me. Guess what? She¡¯s pregnant with your grandchild too."


    Old Master Linughed shamelessly, entirely unafraid of Gu Qixiao¡¯s reaction.


    "In the end, I¡¯m already a dying man. If I can drag Ji Yu down to hell with me, I¡¯ll die smiling. Prepare to regret it for the rest of your life."


    Gu Qixiao ultimately refrained from making another move.


    "You¡¯d better pray nothing happens to Yu."


    Old Master Lin sneered coldly. "You¡¯re acting like I¡¯m some kind of monstrous viin. All I want is a kidney, that¡¯s all."


    What he wanted wasn¡¯t excessive. He hadn¡¯t intended for Ji Yu to die.


    Perhaps she would serve other purposester on. There was no way he¡¯d let her die so soon.


    "Instead of getting so worked up, why not talk about a proper coboration? From the looks of it, you¡¯re quite determined. So what would you do if I used Ji Yu¡¯s life as leverage?"


    Having found Gu Qixiao¡¯s weakness, Old Master Lin pressed relentlessly.


    Gu Qixiao, much to his frustration, couldn¡¯t do anything but watch the old man¡¯s arrogance unfold.


    "I know you¡¯re unwilling to ept this and probably think what I¡¯m doing is excessive. But all this is because you forced my hand. Go think it through¡ªyour child or Ji Yu. Which one will it be?"


    Even in his pathetic state, Old Master Lin refused to let go of his chance to cling to life.


    Gu Qixiao knew he couldn¡¯t act for the time being. All he could do was keep tabs on Old Master Lin¡¯s location and post people at the hospital entrance to keep watch. Anyone bringing someone in would be intercepted and questioned.


    Meanwhile, Gu Qixiao discussed matters concerning Ji Yu with Ji Yuanzhou.


    "Judging by their behavior, they¡¯ll probably only deliver Yu on the day of the surgery. I¡¯ll move in and take her then."


    Ji Yuanzhou had no regard for anything else. If anyone dared touch Ji Yu, there was no way he¡¯d show mercy.


    With the situation escting to this point, Ji Yuanzhou didn¡¯t want to ponder other possibilities.


    As long as he acted decisively, there would be no room for regret.


    "Gu Qixiao, I don¡¯t care what you n to do. You cannot stop me from rescuing Yu."


    "Why would I stop you?" Gu Qixiao seemed exasperated, unsure where Ji Yuanzhou had gotten such an idea.


    The current situation was troublesome enough, and this kind of paranoia needed addressing.


    "I know you have issues with me, but when ites to Yu, I¡¯m just as concerned as you are. Do you think I¡¯d give up so easily?"


    He simply couldn¡¯t take action for now.


    From what he could tell, Ji Yu was likely still in their vi. Making any rash moves would put her at risk, so staying put was the best course for now.


    This knowledge unsettled him deeply.


    "I¡¯m just worried they¡¯ll be prepared. If we act, Yu will be used against us immediately."


    Their weakness was in the enemy¡¯s hands. Every move had to be carefully considered.


    Ji Yuanzhou fell silent for a moment. This was indeed a thorny situation for them.


    "If it trulyes down to making a choice, I¡¯m ready to give up the child. We can have children in the future, but there¡¯s only one Yu."


    He was resolute in his feelings: even without the child, he and Ji Yu could still live their lives together.


    Ji Yuanzhou looked slightly surprised. He hadn¡¯t expected such a sentiment from him.


    "It seems you do have your priorities straight." Ji Yuanzhou¡¯s impression of Gu Qixiao changed slightly. The man who once seemed indifferent to Ji Yu now appeared more human.


    For him to say such words was unexpected.


    Gu Qixiao couldn¡¯t care less about others¡¯ opinions. Even if everyone saw him as scum, as long as Ji Yu understood his heart, that was enough.


    "In the meantime, I¡¯ll try tomunicate more with Lin Wenyan and see if we can uncover any leads. For now, don¡¯t make any rash moves."

 Chapter 173 Searching for Clues

    <h4>Chapter 173: Chapter 173 Searching for Clues</h4><h4></h4>


    He knew Lin Wenyan¡¯s daughter was still in Chongxin.


    Even if Lin Wenyan didn¡¯t want to help at this moment, he had other ways to get Lin Wenyan to cooperate.


    After understanding Gu Qixiao¡¯s intentions, Lin Wenyan wasn¡¯t particrly surprised. "Even if I could help you, I have no idea where Ji Yu is. They don¡¯t trust me at all anymore."


    Thest incident had already caused Lin Wenyan to lose Old Master Lin¡¯s trust¡ªany further attempts would be even less likely to seed.


    Therefore, the odds of seeding with such a n were undeniably slim.


    Gu Qixiao understood this as well. "Do your best to gather any leads you can find. I¡¯ll assign people to cooperate with you. Once you locate something, just inform me, and you don¡¯t need to handle the rest."


    He didn¡¯t intend to involve Lin Wenyan further in handling this matter; after all, he needed to leave Lin Wenyan an out forter.


    Lin Wenyan sighed, not understanding how things had escted to this point. "I¡¯ll do my best to find something."


    However, it was clear that Ji Yu wasn¡¯t the only issue Gu Qixiao needed to deal with at the moment. Assistant Li, ncing at the mess in front of him, understood that Song Xuan was angry. But no matter how furious she became, Gu Qixiao wouldn¡¯t have the time to handle her issues right now.


    "Miss Song, you won¡¯t achieve anything by continuing to make a scene. You¡¯d be better off calmly moving out. President Gu has already arranged a new ce for you¡ªit won¡¯t be unfair to you."


    The apartment¡¯s location was excellent, obviously a standard of luxury, but no matter how she looked at it, Song Xuan felt dissatisfied.


    "I just want to see Xiao¡ªthat¡¯s all. Has he been so bewitched by that vixen that he won¡¯t evene home?"


    When it came to Ji Yu, Assistant Li certainly wasn¡¯t someone who would carelessly disclose anything to others. "Miss Song, you should still be mindful of your image. If you go on like this, you might end up being sent back to school."


    He spoke bluntly, hoping this would make her realize the gravity of the situation.


    For a moment, Song Xuan quieted down, as if she had realized how serious things had be.


    She left quietly, giving the appearance of being genuinely more well-behaved.


    But Assistant Li couldn¡¯t help but feel like something ominous was bound to happen when things seemed too calm.


    Sure enough, she disappeared the next day.


    Gu Qixiao stared at Song Xuan in front of him, clearly impatient. "Didn¡¯t I tell you to stay home? Why are you here?"


    He still needed to deal with Ji Yu¡ªthere was no time for handling Song Xuan¡¯s antics.


    Song Xuan¡¯s eyes were red and swollen from crying. "Xiao, why don¡¯t youe home? I don¡¯t want to make a fuss, but why won¡¯t youe back even once to see me?"


    "I have things to do."


    He still needed to find Ji Yu¡¯s whereabouts.


    "Xiao, are you just going to look for Ji Yu? I know I can¡¯tpete with her, but can¡¯t I quietly stay by your side?"


    She suddenly threw her arms around Gu Qixiao¡¯s waist, as if willing to do anything for him.


    "Xiao, please don¡¯t abandon me like this. These things are truly important to me¡ªI can¡¯t live without you."


    She loved Gu Qixiao so deeply that even if it meant being a secret kept in the dark, she was willing.


    Gu Qixiao naturally understood the implication of her words, but he had no such intention. "Song Xuan, if you keep acting like this, I¡¯ll send you back to school."


    But unfortunately, this scene was witnessed by Ji Yuanzhou, who came to discuss business matters. To him, this made Gu Qixiao look like a hypocrite¡ªprofessing undying loyalty to Ji Yu while secretly getting involved with Song Xuan.


    Ji Yuanzhou¡¯s gaze toward Gu Qixiao turned cold, full of contempt for such behavior.


    "Since you still have other priorities, I¡¯ll handle Yu¡¯s matter myself."


    He was confident he could rescue Ji Yu on his own.


    Who knew why Gu Qixiao was doing things this way?


    What if he used the act of saving Ji Yu as leverage to manipte herter?


    The thought made Ji Yuanzhou feel uneasy.


    Gu Qixiao realized there had been a misunderstanding. Pushing Song Xuan aside, he quickly followed Ji Yuanzhou.


    "Wait. It¡¯s not what you think between me and Song Xuan. The only person in my heart is Yu."


    The scene might¡¯vee across as a bit ridiculous, but Gu Qixiao clearly didn¡¯t care about appearances.


    After exining himself, he apanied Ji Yuanzhou to the meeting room. "I know you probably won¡¯t believe me, but time will prove everything. Right now, the priority is saving Yu. No matter what else happens, it has to be Yu first."


    There was nothing wrong with what he said, and Ji Yuanzhou had no argument, though he still resolved to keep Ji Yu away from him in the future.


    "What¡¯s your n? Do your people have any leads yet?"


    Gu Qixiao shook his head, feeling both frustrated and at a loss for what to do.


    In truth, there were few people who knew Ji Yu¡¯s current location¡ªeven Ji Yu herself didn¡¯t know where she was being held.


    "You seem quite calm," Lin Chujian said with a cold sneer, observing Ji Yu¡¯sposure.


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t have a particrly strong impression of Lin Chujian. "Where is this?"


    She wanted to leave this ce.


    But judging by Lin Chujian¡¯s expression, it seemed like that would be difficult.


    Seeing Ji Yu like this, Lin Chujian naturally couldn¡¯t resist ridiculing her. "Where else could it be? In my hands. You never expected to fall into my hands, did you?"


    She turned on the lights in the dark room.


    For the first time, Ji Yu could clearly see the expression on Lin Chujian¡¯s face, as well as the jealousy and bitterness in her eyes.


    Recalling some of her past conversations with Gu Qixiao, Ji Yu suddenly understood everything.


    "You came to see me not just tough at me, right? Did you want to see what makes me so attractive to Gu Qixiao? Or are you trying to figure out where you fall shortpared to me?"


    "Shut up!" Lin Chujian pped Ji Yu hard across the face.


    Ji Yu¡¯s cheek immediately turned red.


    The stinging pain made Ji Yu instinctively frown, but she still remained silent.


    "What do you think you are? Gu Qixiao only cares about the baby in your belly. Once the baby¡¯s gone, there¡¯ll be nothing left between you and him."


    "Is that so?" Ji Yu couldn¡¯t bring herself to believe such words.


    She still remembered Gu Qixiao¡¯s actions back then. Even if the child weren¡¯t his, he seemed fully prepared to take responsibility for raising it.


    "You don¡¯t actually think Gu Qixiao loves you, do you? Women like you¡ªhe¡¯s seen plenty. You were just lucky enough to end up pregnant."


    The jealousy in Lin Chujian¡¯s eyes was unmistakable by this point.


    Ji Yu remained indifferent. "Your jealousy is already written all over your face. Why punish yourself like this over something pointless?"


    Her unrequited feelings were so obvious, yet she stubbornly pretended to be unfazed.

 Chapter 174: Love, Not Attained

    <h4>Chapter 174: Chapter 174: Love, Not Attained</h4><h4></h4>


    Her behavior is the best proof.


    But Lin Chujian felt that Ji Yu was talking nonsense.


    "How could I possibly be unable to forget? I¡¯ve long since forgotten about these things. Stop talking rubbish."


    "I¡¯m not talking nonsense. Look at how angry and flustered you are right now. Don¡¯t you think this is utterly ridiculous?" Ji Yu felt there was no need to avoid such matters.


    Liking someone is liking someone.


    "Feelings like this can¡¯t be deceived. You think you¡¯ve let go, but deep down, you¡¯re still in love."


    It¡¯s just that this love is still not enough.


    Hearing Ji Yu¡¯s words, her expression grew even more distraught.


    She probably never imagined that such a situation could affect her emotions like this.


    "I honestly don¡¯t understand why he likes you, Ji Yu. This should have been mine from the start."


    She finally broke down a little, seemingly unable toprehend this matter no matter how much she tried.


    The fact that she liked Gu Qixiao was never a secret, so why had Gu Qixiao never responded to her?


    "Do you know how I felt when I saw how well he treated you? I kept thinking, if only it were me by his side at that moment. Why won¡¯t he even spare me a nce?"


    Just one nce would be enough for her to give up everything.


    But it seemed there was truly no way to change these things.


    Ji Yu looked at her behavior and didn¡¯t know what to say. Perhaps she had never imagined someone¡¯s emotions could be so excruciating.


    "Do you really think you can live properly with your current state of mind? Since there¡¯s no chance between you and Gu Qixiao, why are you still clinging to this? I truly think there¡¯s no point."


    She also still wanted to leave this ce.


    "If you help me leave here, maybe I can help you."


    "I don¡¯t need your help. I just need you dead, and then I¡¯ll have your position." She almost screamed hysterically.


    When Ji Yu heard these words, she thought there must be something wrong with her ears.


    "You can¡¯t seriously think I will die, can you?"


    There really wasn¡¯t any need for such a thing.


    Even if it came to the point where she needed surgery, she would be rescued halfway through.


    "You will die," Lin Chujian said viciously, looking as if she¡¯d entirely lost her reason.


    "Even if Old Master Lin has issues, I will not be harmed. I don¡¯t know where you¡¯re getting your information, but I see no need for this," Ji Yu said calmly at first, fully aware that the events toe would not impact her life.


    "Do you know why Old Master Lin doesn¡¯t dare touch me right now? Because his body can¡¯t withstand the surgery. If I were you, instead of causing me trouble here, I¡¯d be finding ways to get a bigger share of the inheritance."


    The inheritance would indeed require some scrambling to secure.


    However, Lin Chujian seemed hesitant.


    "If you don¡¯t want to fight for the inheritance, none of it will be yours in the end. Don¡¯t you know Old Master Lin¡¯s condition is dire? He¡¯s just hiding the truth about his health."


    Old Master Lin¡¯s health was indeed poor, though not as bad as they imagined.


    The reason she said such things was to keep them from bothering her again.


    To be blunt, she would rather stay in this basement than see them disturb her life.


    Although Lin Chujian seemed like she wanted to say more, the matter of the inheritance ultimately caused her to leave first.


    Watching her retreating figure, Ji Yu thought about how to escape from here.


    They might have injected her with some kind of sedative, leaving herpletely powerless right now.


    Meanwhile, Gu Qixiao hadn¡¯t given up on searching, though there were currently no leads.


    Lin Wenyan, observing his demeanor, knew that this matter seemed quite challenging.


    "You don¡¯t need to be too anxious. Since the old man hasn¡¯t undergone surgery, it means Ji Yu is safe."


    However, Lin Chujian might not hold back.


    "Has Lin Chujian made any moves recently?"


    "She¡¯s been busy withpany affairstely and probably doesn¡¯t have time to trouble Ji Yu." Lin Wenyan remarked curiously, "I don¡¯t know why, but Lin Chujian seems like an entirely different person recently."


    "She¡¯s been staying at thepany every day recently, though she used to keep a close eye on the old man¡¯s condition."


    She must¡¯ve learned something that made her believe this time Old Master Lin wouldn¡¯t make it, which is why she started focusing on consolidating power within thepany first.


    Gu Qixiao looked thoughtful.


    "She definitely met with Yu before."


    Only Ji Yu would have revealed such specific details about Old Master Lin¡¯s condition.


    "If she hadn¡¯t met Yu, there¡¯s no way she¡¯d know so much, and now she¡¯s graspingpany matters. Do you really think there¡¯s no need to worry?"


    "There¡¯s nothing to worry about. What¡¯s mine won¡¯t belong to anyone else." Lin Wenyan¡¯s tone was calm, having already prepared for this long ago without needing to adjust further.


    "The moment I found out the old man was ill, I was ready for a fight."


    Gu Qixiao was somewhat surprised by his stance.


    After all, this person typically seemed entirely unambitious, but now he presented a starkly different attitude.


    Lin Wenyan seemed to sense Gu Qixiao¡¯s surprise.


    "No one dislikes money. I like it, too, so of course, I won¡¯t stay out of this."


    His preparations, in truth, werergely thanks to Ji Yu.


    "My daughter was reborn under her care. I should be grateful to her. But I suspect the scars on my daughter¡¯s face are because of the old man."


    The very thought of it made him grit his teeth in anger. It didn¡¯t matter who the old man was; forgiveness was impossible.


    "I will never forgive him in this lifetime. My daughter¡¯s face is so important to her, but he did such a thing to her. He¡¯s worse than a beast."


    Gu Qixiao could feel his fury and chose not to say much more.


    "Actually, you could take a calmer approach. Getting the truth out of him before he dies might feel better."


    They were both convinced that Old Master Lin had no chance of recovery.


    Because when he went in for surgery, they would never let it proceed smoothly.

 Chapter 175: The Final Struggle

    <h4>Chapter 175: Chapter 175: The Final Struggle</h4><h4></h4>


    Old Master Lin was unaware of their ns, but he could clearly feel his body growing weaker by the day.


    "Didn¡¯t you say my health would gradually improve to the point where I could undergo surgery? Why do I feel like my body is deteriorating?"


    The doctor was also baffled. After all, his condition had been steadily improving before, but for some unknown reason, after the recent incident, his body had remained in a weakened state. Performing surgery was now out of the question.


    "Your body has be so frail that we are simply unable to perform surgery on you. We¡¯ve been working diligently on your rehabilitation, but the oue seems different from what we had expected."


    Just then, Gu Qixiao appeared at the doorway of the hospital room.


    "You¡¯ve already ended up like this. Do you still refuse to let her go?"


    It¡¯s often said that a dying man¡¯s words are kind, but Old Master Lin seemed tock suchpassion.


    "I won¡¯t die. Even if I do, I¡¯ll drag her down to hell with me."


    He was unwilling to ept death so easily.


    But some things just never go as one wishes.


    "Do you know that yourpany has already been divided among your children?"


    This also meant that they had given up on treating Old Master Lin.


    Old Master Lin¡¯s eyes widened in disbelief, as though he couldn¡¯t ept what he had just heard.


    "Impossible. They will save me. I know they still have some filial piety left in them."


    "Do you truly think so?" For someone who was so mistrustful, how could he genuinely believe in his children?


    Old Master Lin¡¯s expression grew more panicked.


    It seemed he had never anticipated that his children would abandon him first.


    "No, that¡¯s not possible. I can still live. I absolutely can¡¯t die just like this."


    Looking at Old Master Lin¡¯s pitiful state, Gu Qixiao couldn¡¯t help but feel a bit sorry for him, though it stopped short of sympathy.


    "As long as you divulge Yu¡¯s location, I can still call someone over to buy you a bit more time."


    "You¡¯re all lying to me. There¡¯s no way I¡¯ll bring Ji Yu out." He suddenly turned even more malicious.


    "No matter what, I¡¯ll drag her to hell with me. You all want me dead, don¡¯t you? Fine, then I¡¯ll take her down with me!"


    Gu Qixiao frowned.


    He truly couldn¡¯t fathom what was going through Old Master Lin¡¯s mind at this moment.


    "Even if you go through with this, there will be no oue for you whatsoever."


    But s, Old Master Lin seemed to have gonepletely mad, paying no heed to Gu Qixiao¡¯s words.


    Lin Wenyan, observing the situation, also realized that there would be no getting anything useful out of Old Master Lin.


    "I¡¯ll take you back to the Lin family estate to have a look. Right now, there shouldn¡¯t be anyone home."


    Everyone was preupied with the fight over the inheritance and simply had no time to bother with them.


    Gu Qixiao headed to the Lin estate with his team.


    However, they searched every nook and cranny but failed to find her.


    Lin Wenyan¡¯s expression grew increasingly puzzled.


    "I really don¡¯t know what to do now."


    He had run out of ces to search, and since Ji Yu wasn¡¯t at the Lin estate, it meant she must have been hidden elsewhere.


    "She might be somewhere else. Why don¡¯t you go and look somece else?"


    Gu Qixiao shook his head. He had a strong feeling that Ji Yu was here.


    Meanwhile, Ji Yu was being kept in a dark, secluded corner, with no food or water to sustain her. She had grown extremely weak.


    It had been days since she had eaten, and she was physically unable to hold on any longer.


    Originally, these tasks had fallen to Lin Chujian, but with Lin Chujian now preupied with the fight for the Lin family inheritance, she no longer had time to deliver food to Ji Yu.


    "What if she starves to death? If she dies of starvation, we¡¯ll definitely be held ountable."


    "And what, you dare reveal her location now? If she¡¯s discovered, we¡¯ll all be screwed."


    "But we can¡¯t just sit here and watch her starve to death."


    "The old man still needs her kidney. If she dies of starvation, she¡¯ll be useless."


    "You can¡¯t be serious. The old man isn¡¯t going to make it either."


    Hearing their discussion, Ji Yu knew that her chances of leaving alive were slim.


    Gu Qixiao, too, spotted the two men.


    Seeing him, the two quickly fell silent, too afraid to speak another word.


    "What are you two whispering about over here?"


    Their faces were full of difort, clearly terrified.


    "We didn¡¯t say anything. You must have misheard. Sir, this is the old man¡¯s residence¡ªyou can¡¯t go in."


    Of course, Gu Qixiao had no intention of leaving any corner unchecked.


    "Move!" He was determined to find out if Ji Yu was hidden here.


    The situation instantly became tense.


    Neither of the two dared to step aside, yet they couldn¡¯t afford to offend Gu Qixiao either.


    They cast pleading looks at Lin Wenyan, hoping he would say something on their behalf.


    "Step aside." Lin Wenyan, to their dismay, didn¡¯t speak up on their behalf. Instead, he instructed them to move aside.


    The two looked at Lin Wenyan in shock, but seeing no other way, they reluctantly stepped aside, all the while praying that the basement wouldn¡¯t be discovered. Otherwise, they¡¯d be in deep trouble.


    Gu Qixiao¡¯s intuition told him that Ji Yu was definitely here.


    But after searching every corner, he still couldn¡¯t find any trace of her.


    "Since you two haven¡¯t found anything, shouldn¡¯t you leave now?"


    At this point, they truly couldn¡¯t afford to let them keep searching. If Ji Yu were found, it would spell disaster for all of them.


    Lin Chujian had also learned about the situation at home and rushed back in a hurry.


    "What are you doing in the old man¡¯s room? What exactly do you want?"


    She appeared collected and calm, as if her annoyance stemmed solely from their invasion of the space.


    "Where¡¯s Yu?" Gu Qixiao got straight to the point without wasting time.


    "How would I know where she is?" Lin Chujian found the question absurd. Had they stumbled upon some kind of clue?


    She maintained herposed demeanor, acting as though she truly knew nothing.


    "What you¡¯re doing constitutes trespassing, and the old man is still alive. Aren¡¯t you afraid of how he¡¯ll deal with you?"


    She nced over at Lin Wenyan, curious as to why he had been so unusually calmtely, with no visible interest in fighting for power.


    "All I need is for you to tell me where Yu is."


    He didn¡¯t care about anything else, but he wouldn¡¯t allow himself to stop caring about Ji Yu.


    Lin Chujian was taken aback by his words. She could never have imagined that he would be someone willing to forsake everything and pay any price for one person.


    "Gu Qixiao, Ji Yu is already dead." Her words carried a tone of vengeance.


    "You¡¯re lying."

 Chapter 176: Almost Starved to Death

    <h4>Chapter 176: Chapter 176: Almost Starved to Death</h4><h4></h4>


    He couldn¡¯t believe Ji Yu would die like this.


    "What good is your disbelief? I haven¡¯t given her food for a long time. Do you know how she survived these three days without food or water? Maybe she¡¯s already dead."


    When she spoke of this matter, her voice carried vengeful delight. Perhaps only at times like this did she feel she could stir emotions in Gu Qixiao.


    "You can¡¯t possibly imagine how much pain she endured before dying."


    "Impossible." The veins on Gu Qixiao¡¯s forehead bulged.


    Clearly, these words had deeply provoked him.


    "Absolutely impossible. She¡¯s definitely still alive."


    These words reached Ji Yu¡¯s ears, but she didn¡¯t have the strength to respond.


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t know where she was, only that their voices could reach her, which meant the distance between them was very close, yet somehow felt very far.


    "Gu Qixiao..."


    She wanted to make a sound to let them find her position, but such a thing seemed as difficult as reaching for the heavens.


    Outside, Gu Qixiao¡¯s expression was beginning to crack; perhaps he had never truly considered that Ji Yu might leave his side.


    "How is this possible? You must be lying to me. Tell me her location immediately."


    Lin Chujian looked at his frantic appearance and couldn¡¯t help butugh out loud, though the more sheughed, the more sorrowful she felt, and tears streamed unchecked down her face.


    "Look at how pathetic you are right now. Although it¡¯s not for me, it still has something to do with me. I enjoy seeing you so miserable."


    She wanted to regretlessly make Gu Qixiao rue his choices.


    But the effect seemed feeble.


    Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t care about any word she said, but he cared deeply about everything rted to Ji Yu.


    "Even if you see her, she¡¯ll already be a corpse. What¡¯s the point? Maybe your child will die early too."


    When she uttered these words, she felt particrly venomous, yet the scene before her also brought twisted satisfaction.


    Gu Qixiao could no longer hold back and gripped her neck fiercely.


    "What do you think you¡¯re worth? Where is Yu!"


    His mind was unraveling, though he kept forcing himself. As long as Ji Yu could be found, nothing else mattered to him.


    Ji Yu was struggling too. She kept feeling around, trying to move closer to them, and repeatedly knocked against the wall, hoping to make some noise to catch their attention.


    The guards outside were already scared stiff, never anticipating such an urrence, but they dared not intervene.


    Lin Wenyan just stood there coldly, observing the scene before him.


    "Lin Chujian, telling them Ji Yu¡¯s location won¡¯t change anything. You and I both know the old man¡¯s condition; he won¡¯t be needing her kidney anymore."


    Lin Chujian was already choking and couldn¡¯t speak, but sheughed joyfully.


    Her face twisted grotesquely, filled with pain and yet exhration, as if this entire ordeal was simultaneously tormenting and gratifying for her.


    "If you have the guts, find her yourselves. If you can¡¯t, all you can do is collect her corpse. Perhaps by the time you find her, she¡¯ll already have turned to bones."


    Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t say a word, but he started hearing faint sounds, like something stirring beneath their feet.


    "Is there a basement here?" He turned suddenly and asked.


    Lin Wenyan truly wasn¡¯t sure if there was a basement here, but knowing the cautious nature of old Lin, it was highly likely there was such a setup.


    "Where¡¯s the basement?" He looked at the two men stationed at the door to begin with, clearly suspecting them of guarding the entrance to the basement.


    The two men became even more visibly flustered, clearly aware of the truth but afraid to speak out.


    "Consider carefully who will be in charge of the Lin family in the future."


    Their expressions showed some hesitation, but knowing this man¡¯s considerable influence in the Lin family, they relented and stepped away from the doorway.


    "She¡¯s here."


    Lin Chujian went berserk, blocking the path ahead, unwilling to let them enter.


    "Even if you go inside, you¡¯d only see a corpse. Do you still insist on going in?"


    Gu Qixiao said nothing, kicking her into a corner, clearly unwilling to waste time on her.


    Lin Chujiany there for a long time, unable to get up, her face contorted with pain, yet she remained unwilling to let them pass.


    The basement tunnel wasn¡¯t very long, but to Gu Qixiao, it felt as though he had been walking for an eternity.


    He was terrified that what he¡¯d see would truly be a corpse, like Lin Chujian had imed.


    He had never feared anything in his life, yet in this moment, he was profoundly afraid of the sight awaiting him.


    Ji Yu truly had no strength left, slumped helplessly to the side. She knew that someone had finally discovered the basement.


    She felt as though every ounce of her energy had been drained; going without food for so long had left her so weak that she couldn¡¯t even lift her arms.


    When she saw the light pouring in from the doorway, she realized she had finally been rescued.


    "Yu..." Gu Qixiao saw her unconscious form and felt as though his blood had frozen solid, terrified that her body had gone cold.


    He gently lifted her, feeling her warmth to confirm she was still alive.


    His movements were cautious, as if handling a fragile gemstone.


    "Yu, I¡¯m taking you to the hospital right now. You have to hold on. You promised me you wouldn¡¯t abandon me."


    Gu Qixiao ignored everyone else¡¯s stares, carrying Ji Yu to the car and heading straight for the hospital.


    All the way there, he kept checking her pulse, as if afraid she would slip away in the next moment.


    "Yu, you have to hold on. We¡¯ve only just reconciled. You can¡¯t just abandon me like this! And you¡¯re carrying my child. You promised me we would raise this child together!"


    He kept talking to Ji Yu, fearing she might never wake again.


    Ji Yu¡¯s face was deathly pale, her once captivating features now looking gaunt and fragile.


    "Yu, I won¡¯t lose you again. This time, it¡¯s my fault. No matter what happens in the future, I will stay by your side and never let you face danger again."


    For the first time, he felt genuine fear, his hands trembling as he spoke. "Yu, please, forgive me this once. I swear I¡¯ll protect you this time."


    For the first time, he pleaded so humbly, desperately hoping Ji Yu would survive.

 Chapter 177 Awakening

    <h4>Chapter 177: Chapter 177 Awakening</h4><h4></h4>


    This time, Ji Yu¡¯s condition looked dire.


    Fortunately, she was sent to the hospital in time.


    After learning that Ji Yu was not in any grave danger, Gu Qixiao¡¯s emotions finally settled a bit.


    Even the hospital staff found Gu Qixiao¡¯s reaction a bit exaggerated. "The patient just fainted from hunger, it¡¯s nothing serious. You family members should really avoid overreacting."


    Gu Qixiao was merely shaken by the scene. When everyone said something had happened to Ji Yu, his mindset at the time indeed crumbled.


    He stayed cautiously by Ji Yu¡¯s bedside, clearly unable to hear a word anyone said. It was Lin Wenyan who helped contact the Ji family.


    When Ji Yuanzhou saw Ji Yu in such a state, he was worried too. "Yu, she¡¯s..."


    "She needs to recuperate for some time, but both the child and Ji Yu are fine."


    Having run around dealing with these matters, he understood the situation well.


    "The doctor just said she might wake up tonight."


    Ji Yuanzhou wanted to stay by Ji Yu¡¯s side, but the Ji parents held him back. "Let them have some time together. This time, we¡¯ve seen Gu¡¯s sincerity. Since he wants to take care of Yu, we shouldn¡¯t interfere."


    Although he was a bit unwilling, he understood that these matters couldn¡¯t hinge on his feelings.


    He could only watch as Gu Qixiao took care of Ji Yu. Even though he had already retreated to the role of an older brother, he still felt dissatisfied.


    Gu Qixiao, however, had no interest in anyone else¡¯s thoughts. All he wanted was to stay and wait for Ji Yu.


    Thankfully, Ji Yu woke upter that night.


    Seeing Gu Qixiao¡¯s slightly reddened eyes, she could tell just how upset he had been. "Gu Qixiao, were you crying?"


    "I wasn¡¯t crying. I was worried about your safety. Ji Yu, do you have any idea how painful it was for me to see you unconscious?"


    He had never experienced such a feeling before.


    It was as if he had beenpletely gutted.


    Ji Yu could understand that feeling. Seeing Gu Qixiao like this moved her deeply. "Thank you."


    She knew that at the time, Gu Qixiao must have heard her faint sounds; otherwise, he couldn¡¯t have found her so quickly.


    "You don¡¯t need to thank me. I failed to protect you. I¡¯m sorry. I shouldn¡¯t have let you go back alone then. If I¡¯d known something like this would happen, I would have stayed by your side."


    Whenever he thought about what happened, he felt deeply guilty.


    He had clearly wanted to go back home with Ji Yu.


    "I knew how dangerous it was for you at that moment, yet I chose to focus on something else. That was my fault."


    Just thinking about it made him feel that what he did was terribly wrong.


    Seeing Gu Qixiao with the expression of a child who had been caught misbehaving, Ji Yu didn¡¯t me him at all.


    "It was my own issue. At the time, I didn¡¯t respond well. Thankfully, nothing serious happened. You don¡¯t need to worry about me or me yourself so much."


    She knew Gu Qixiao must have had a tough time recently.


    "Gu Qixiao, I¡¯m really thankful to you."


    This incident made her realize that Gu Qixiao truly cared for her.


    And the first person that came to her mind then had been Gu Qixiao.


    "Stop talking for now. I¡¯ll call the doctor to check you first. Whatever else needs to be resolved can wait until after treatment."


    She didn¡¯t argue, just smiled and looked at Gu Qixiao.


    Gu Qixiao couldn¡¯t shake the sense that something had changed, though he couldn¡¯t pinpoint what it was.


    The doctor, upon seeing their subtle, charged dynamic, was momentarily surprised.


    Thankfully, the test results showed no issues. "Youngdy, you¡¯re very lucky. Your husband stayed by your side the entire time. When he brought you here, his eyes were red from crying¡ªhe cared for you so much."


    Remembering the scene from before, the doctor had initially feared the worst. Who would¡¯ve thought it was merely due to a few days of not eating, leading to a fainting spell?


    Gu Qixiao, exposed by the doctor, felt a bit embarrassed. After the doctor left, he defended himself, "I didn¡¯t cry."


    How could he cry so easily?


    And as a man, how could he cry over every little thing?


    Ji Yu was amused by his sheepish demeanor.


    "Oh, fine, I know you didn¡¯t cry. Anyway, what¡¯s the situation with the Lin family? Judging by the way you look, you probably haven¡¯t had time to handle their matters yet."


    She was aware that Old Master Lin likely didn¡¯t have much time left.


    "Lin Wenyan is handling the Lin family affairs. I believe he had already prepared for this."


    When he mentioned Lin Wenyan, his expression softened slightly. "His attitude toward you is decent, and he¡¯s nothing like Old Master Lin."


    "He only cares about what matters to him, which is a good quality."


    After Ji Yu had treated his daughter, Lin Wenyan had taken Ji Yu¡¯s side. Upon discovering that Old Master Lin had targeted his daughter, Lin Wenyan reced all the old man¡¯s medication.


    It showed that someone could be both kind-hearted and ruthless where it mattered.


    "He is someone worth associating with."


    But as for this event, it essentially settled things between the two of them.


    "Gu Qixiao, you don¡¯t need to do so much for me. Even if you like me, you¡¯re under no obligation to go to such lengths. Our rtionship is still just at the friend level."


    Even if things progressed further, it would only be as boyfriend and girlfriend. Why should there be so much effort?


    "We¡¯re just friends?" He gazed at Ji Yu intently, as though such a statement was entirely uneptable.


    Ji Yu felt a little embarrassed, but her heart told her that such things couldn¡¯t be avoided.


    "For now, you¡¯re my boyfriend. But even so, you shouldn¡¯t go to such extremes. You just need to do what a boyfriend is supposed to do."


    Why would he need to go above and beyond?


    When Gu Qixiao heard the word "boyfriend," a smile spread across his face, and he appeared quite justified. "Since I¡¯m your boyfriend, I must do what I¡¯m supposed to, right? Isn¡¯t protecting my girlfriend¡¯s safety exactly my responsibility?"


    Because he liked Ji Yu, he wanted to give her the best of everything¡ªin terms of wealth, lifestyle, and anything else she desired. Especially when it came to her safety, how could he not care?


    "As long as you¡¯re by my side, you¡¯re safe, Yu. I like you, and I¡¯ll give you the best of everything."


    Maybe, the moment he realized he liked Ji Yu, he had already made these decisions.


    "Don¡¯t feel too much pressure. Since I said I¡¯m willing to give, all you need to do is enjoy it."

 Chapter 178: Concern

    <h4>Chapter 178: Chapter 178: Concern</h4><h4></h4>


    Ji Yu actually wanted to bring up the earlier matters, but how could she just say outright that he was her ex-husband?


    That would seem too abrupt, and who knows what kind of reaction Gu Qixiao might have.


    Ji Yu could only keep her mouth shut for the time being.


    She¡¯d save it forter.


    At this moment, Feng Qinqin and Ji Yuanzhou had an unexpected encounter at the door. Both of their expressions clearly betrayed their awkwardness.


    In the end, Feng Qinqin walked into the hospital room first.


    Seeing Ji Yu and Gu Qixiao together in this way, it immediately became clear to her that the two were very likely nning to be together again.


    "Yuyu, are you okay?" she asked, visibly worried about Ji Yu¡¯s condition.


    "I¡¯m fine now, just went a few days without eating. But look, haven¡¯t I gotten much better already?" Ji Yu¡¯splexion was still a bit pale, but at least she was able to stay awake and alert.


    Ji Yu knew they were worried; otherwise, they wouldn¡¯t havee rushing over so quickly.


    Seeing that Ji Yu¡¯s condition was rtively normal, Feng Qinqin finally breathed a sigh of relief. "That old man Lin is truly insufferable; how could he dare to do something like this?"


    This was practically no different from attempted murder.


    Everyone knew how close this incident came to being fatal for Ji Yu.


    "When you disappeared, they all kept it from me. If I hadn¡¯t been more alert, I probably would¡¯ve remained in the dark too," Feng Qinqin said as she shot a fierce re at Ji Yuanzhou on the side, clearly ming him.


    Ji Yuanzhou looked ufortable,rgely because he didn¡¯t think it necessary to share such things, which was why he had said nothing at the start.


    But Feng Qinqin was clearly unhappy with the way he handled it.


    Ji Yu felt like things were getting increasinglyplicated between the two of them. Still, the fact that they were even talking meant that, for now, they wouldn¡¯t drift apart entirely.


    "It wasn¡¯t anything major. I didn¡¯t tell you because I didn¡¯t want you to worry. Don¡¯t I know what your personality is like?"


    Of course she did.


    So in a way, staying silent made sense.


    Ji Yu nced over at her eldest brother, who wasn¡¯t even bothering to exin himself, and couldn¡¯t help feeling somewhat exasperated.


    "All of you don¡¯t need to worry about me. I¡¯ve already made a good recovery and won¡¯t be feeling unwell anymore. Besides, isn¡¯t Gu Qixiao here to take care of me?"


    At the mention of this, Feng Qinqin grew even more curious. "So, are you two officially back together?"


    She was incredibly curious about this matter. From the beginning, something seemed off between them, and now, seeing their natural interaction, how could she not guess what was going on?


    "Yes," Ji Yu replied, a little embarrassed. After all, she¡¯d said so many thingsining about Gu Qixiao before, and now here they were, back together.


    Who could¡¯ve predicted such a dramatic turn of events?


    Ji Yu genuinely didn¡¯t know how to exin it.


    But Gu Qixiao openly confirmed their rtionship. "Xiaoyu and I are together now. Even without this incident, we would¡¯ve ended up together eventually."


    In a way, one could say that Old Man Lin, indirectly, had yed a helpful role; at the very least, he sped things up for them.


    Hearing this, Feng Qinqin rolled her eyes. "You¡¯re really acting like you¡¯re itching to im some title with our Yuyu, huh? I¡¯m warning you now, even if you two have a child, if Yuyu decides she doesn¡¯t like you, she won¡¯t stay with you."


    Gu Qixiao, of course, understood that.


    Wasn¡¯t this exactly how Ji Yu had acted before?


    He still remembered every word Ji Yu had said back then.


    "Xiaoyu won¡¯t give up on me so easily," he replied firmly.


    He wasn¡¯t going to leave Ji Yu¡¯s side anytime soon.


    Watching the scene in front of her, Ji Yu couldn¡¯t help but feel likeughing.


    But clearly, not everyone felt as lighthearted as she did.


    When Old Man Lin learned that Ji Yu had been rescued, he grew even more haggard.


    When Lin Wenyan arrived at the hospital, the old man looked like someone who had no chance left of surviving.


    "Old man, I just want to know one thing. Since you¡¯re at death¡¯s door, you might as well tell the truth. Was Ningning¡¯s face your doing?"


    The old man¡¯s cloudy eyes seemed to show a glimmer of regret. "What happened back then was nothing but an ident¡ªI didn¡¯t expect her to walk through that door."


    So that was as good as a confession?


    Lin Wenyan didn¡¯t say anything else. He quietly sat nearby, peeling an apple, waiting for the old man to pass away.


    "Did you tamper with my medicine? Are you siding with Ji Yu?" the old man finally asked, his gaze turning disbelieving as if remembering something.


    "Yes." There was no point in denying it.


    After learning that his daughter¡¯s face had ended up like this because of the old man, Lin Wenyan couldn¡¯t bring himself to care for him any longer.


    "Your medicine was switched long ago. That¡¯s why you¡¯ve been getting weaker and weaker. Just look at you now¡ªthis is really best for everyone. You won¡¯t have to suffer anymore, and you won¡¯t harm anyone else either."


    Ji Yu had nothing to do with this matter in the first ce, but because of the old man¡¯s condition, she kept getting dragged into it.


    The old man red at him with all the strength left in his dying body, clearly unwilling to go just like that, but his body could no longer sustain him.


    Listening to the sound from the heart monitor, Lin Wenyan realized the old man would never wake again.


    He left the hospital without going to Ji Yu¡¯s room. Instead, he went to find Lin Ningning.


    Seeing him, Lin Ningning was clearly delighted. "Dad, are you here to take me home?"


    "Yes, you can be discharged now." They no longer had to live in that stifling environment.


    He knew there was no need to discuss the old man¡¯s affairs any further.


    Lin Ningning didn¡¯t know why her father felt so different today, but she couldn¡¯t help noticing it.


    "Dad, should we go see Doctor Ji?"


    "No need. She¡¯lle to us in a while," he replied, certain that Ji Yu wouldn¡¯t leave things unresolved.


    Indeed, Ji Yu had already learned of the old man¡¯s death but wasn¡¯t surprised.


    "He didn¡¯t have long to live anyway. With Lin Wenyan around, it¡¯s remarkable hested this long," she remarked.


    Old Man Lin had certainly wanted to cling to life.


    Leaning against Gu Qixiao¡¯s shoulder, Ji Yu could feel his lingering difort. "By the way, how did things go with Song Xuan?"


    She remembered that Song Xuan had called Gu Qixiao back that day. If it had been nothing, he wouldn¡¯t have been gone so long.


    "She¡¯s fine. I¡¯ve arranged for her to stay in an apartment¡ªshe can do whatever she wants there," he replied.


    But one thing was certain: whatever she did, it wouldn¡¯t involve him. After this incident, Gu Qixiao hade to understand that he needed to always maintain distance from other women.

 Chapter 179: Keep Distance

    <h4>Chapter 179: Chapter 179: Keep Distance</h4><h4></h4>


    Of course, Song Xuan couldn¡¯t possibly live her life ording to Gu Qixiao¡¯s wishes.


    When Ji Yu heard him say that, she already knew this matter was likely never going to seed.


    "Her obsession with you isn¡¯t something that can be resolved so quickly."


    How could feelings that havested this long simply disperse with a few words?


    People often appear when you think about them, and it wasn¡¯t long after they finished talking when Song Xuan arrived at the hospital room under the guise of visiting the sick.


    Seeing the intimate way the two of them interacted, the jealousy in Song Xuan¡¯s eyes could no longer be suppressed.


    "Xiao, you and Doctor Ji aren¡¯t officially together yet, are you? Isn¡¯t it a little inappropriate for you two to act so close?"


    She wished she could rush over and separate the two of them this very moment.


    But Gu Qixiao clearly didn¡¯t care about such questions. "Yu and I are already together. From now on, you can call her sister-inw."


    Wasn¡¯t this just killing her emotionally?


    Song Xuan already disliked Ji Yu and had hoped to marry Gu Qixiao herself. Being asked to call Ji Yu "sister-inw" was more unbearable than death.


    "Xiao, even if you¡¯re nning to get married, you should at least discuss it with the family first. Has Uncle Gu approved this?"


    The Gu family still didn¡¯t know about this matter.


    But Ji Yu was quite certain that the Gu family wouldn¡¯t oppose them being together.


    "We¡¯re dating, not tying each other down. So, there¡¯s nothing wrong with the current situation."


    She didn¡¯t think such things needed anyone¡¯s approval.


    Besides, Song Xuan¡¯s behavior was clearly a sign of jealousy.


    Looking at how intimately the two interacted, Song Xuan¡¯s eyes couldn¡¯t help but redden slightly. But knowing that Gu Qixiao might feel they were being inappropriateter, she pretended as if nothing was wrong.


    "Oh, I see. Then I¡¯ll wait until after you officially marry Xiao before I call you sister-inw."


    There was no way she could bring herself to say it now.


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t demand that she call her "sister-inw" either, knowing full well what was on her mind. She only hoped Song Xuan wouldn¡¯t stir up trouble in the future.


    Gu Qixiao couldn¡¯t help but feel that Ji Yu seemed indifferent to this matter.


    After Song Xuan left, looking heartbroken, he finally couldn¡¯t hold back and asked, "Yu, why do you seem so unconcerned about how we¡¯re being addressed?"


    "You mean calling your name?"


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t think it was a problem at all.


    Besides, they were already so familiar with each other. How could they not know each other¡¯s personalities?


    "I mean letting Song Xuan call you sister-inw."


    Ji Yu found it exasperating, feeling that Gu Qixiao was genuinely obtuse about this matter. "Do you think calling me sister-inw will make her truly see me that way?"


    Using such titles wouldn¡¯t change anything. It only meant that Song Xuan now knew about their rtionship.


    "In her heart, she¡¯ll never consider me her sister-inw. So even if she says it, it wouldn¡¯t mean anything, don¡¯t you think?"


    She looked at Gu Qixiao helplessly.


    But she understood what Gu Qixiao meant. She even found his approach a little endearing. "Why are you acting so different from your usual self? If you want a sense of formal recognition, just say so directly. Why go around in circles?"


    Gu Qixiao cleared his throat, acknowledging that this was indeed a bit embarrassing. "That¡¯s not exactly what I meant. I just think our rtionship should be known to more people."


    He was prepared to slowly inform his family. No matter how many people opposed their being together, he was determined they would remain together.


    Ji Yu couldn¡¯t help but find the man before her especially lovable.


    But she didn¡¯t know what to say.


    "Gu Qixiao, I¡¯ll give you the official recognition you want, but there¡¯s no need to force things to prove anything."


    Sooner orter, everyone would know about their rtionship.


    Standing at the doorway, Lu Xingchen seemed stunned to hear these words, frozen in ce.


    It was only when Gu Qixiao noticed his presence that he reacted.


    "Why are you here?"


    Lu Xingchen¡¯s expression was dazed, as though he hadn¡¯t yet processed what was happening.


    "I came to see Yu."


    Upon learning that Ji Yu was injured, he had been worried. But he hadn¡¯t expected to stumble upon such a scene.


    Just seeing this left his mood in utter disarray.


    "Yu, you..."


    He didn¡¯t know how to start, likely angry with himself for always being a step behind.


    He had already confessed his feelings before. So why was he missing out now on such important moments?


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t know what he was thinking. She thought he might have something he couldn¡¯t say directly. "Xingchen, I¡¯m fine. You don¡¯t have to worry too much about me."


    Lu Xingchen opened his mouth several times but didn¡¯t know what to say. He merely looked at Gu Qixiao, feeling an unbearable sense of difort. "Yu, what¡¯s going on between you and him?"


    He just wanted to know if Ji Yu truly liked someone else.


    But Ji Yu had no other hidden intentions.


    "I¡¯m with him now. He¡¯s my boyfriend."


    Being openly acknowledged in front of a love rival, Gu Qixiao couldn¡¯t help but feel delighted. Especially when he saw Lu Xingchen¡¯s face darken with displeasure ¡ª it made him even happier.


    "When did the two of you get together? Isn¡¯t this a bit too hasty?"


    "This time, I owe a lot to Gu Qixiao. And we¡¯ve already had feelings for each other; I was just hesitant about some things before." She was very aware of the past.


    And during that time, her hesitation must have caused considerable pain to Gu Qixiao.


    Whenever she thought about those moments, Ji Yu felt she had been cruel. Why had she hesitated back then?


    In matters of the heart, no amount of hesitation could ever change certain truths.


    Gu Qixiao¡¯s heart ached as he heard her words. "It¡¯s natural to hesitate when faced with such significant decisions."


    He believed it was only right to take time with such things.


    But Lu Xingchen felt it was his own failings. If only he had learned earlier about Ji Yu being in danger, would things have turned out differently?


    "Xingchen, have you been very busytely?"


    He had indeed been busy, and his manager didn¡¯t want him to get too close to Ji Yu, so he had to stay away temporarily.


    He had thought there would be enough time to get closer to Ji Yu. But now, things had turned out like this.


    He was furious at himself for not caring about Ji Yu more at that crucial time.


    "Yes, I¡¯ve been busy. I squeezed in time to see you today. Since you¡¯re fine, I¡¯ll leave now."


    In the end, Lu Xingchen couldn¡¯t sit idly by and watch them be together so peacefully. He desperately wanted to ask why Ji Yu had made that choice.


    But the words simply wouldn¡¯te out.

 Chapter 180: Joy and Anger

    <h4>Chapter 180: Chapter 180: Joy and Anger</h4><h4></h4>


    Lu Xingchen didn¡¯t know when exactly he had missed his chance with Ji Yu, but looking at the current situation, it was clear he no longer had one.


    "Yu, if you ever need anything, you can alwayse to me."


    "Xingchen, I don¡¯t have anything going on. Please don¡¯t put so much pressure on yourself¡ªjust focus on what you need to do." Ji Yu always felt that he seemed to have something weighing on his mind, stopping short of sharing from the very beginning.


    But since he wouldn¡¯t say it, Ji Yu couldn¡¯t press for details.


    Lu Xingchen forced a bitter smile. "Maybe it¡¯s just the regret of realizing something toote. But I don¡¯t have anything going on¡ªit¡¯s good that you don¡¯t. No matter what happens, I¡¯ll always have your back."


    He no longer knew what he should say.


    Frustration and remorse piled up in his chest, rendering him incapable of truly facing what was in front of him.


    Ji Yu couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that his words wereced with hidden meaning. What could possibly make Lu Xingchen regret like this?


    "Xingchen, if something¡¯s bothering you, don¡¯t keep it all bottled up. You can talk to me, or if you¡¯re notfortable, share it with someone close to you."


    But how could he possibly talk to Ji Yu about this?


    Some regrets are best left alone, without dragging others into awkwardness.


    When he looked at Gu Qixiao, his gaze carried hints of jealousy, as if such happiness was the rarest thing in the world.


    Gu Qixiao, on the other hand, was clearly proud of the situation. "When Yu and I get married, I¡¯ll make sure you have a spot at the banquet."


    He was clearly showing off the rtionship between the two of them.


    But Ji Yu thought of something. After all, the two of them were already married, though the circumstances were far too embarrassing to bring up now¡ªit was better to hold off on revealing it.


    "Don¡¯t worry about me. If there¡¯s something you want to discuss, go ahead. I¡¯m going to rest for a bit."


    She really couldn¡¯t hold on anymore, her eyelids drooping as fatigue overtook her.


    Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t seem inclined to continue conversing with Lu Xingchen. "Since Yu wants to rest, how about we go outside and discuss this properly?"


    He did want to talk about some matters¡ªafter all, they were rather interesting.


    Lu Xingchen knew what he wanted to say but followed him out regardless.


    "If you¡¯ve got something to say, just say it. There¡¯s no need to unt your rtionship in front of me. As long as Ji Yu hasn¡¯t married you, it¡¯s not set in stone."


    He wasn¡¯t prepared to give up so easily. Even if he could only stay near Ji Yu in the capacity of an older brother, that would give him some sce.


    Hearing this, Gu Qixiao¡¯s expression shifted slightly, curious about how this man could be so persistent. "Haven¡¯t you already noticed that the two of us are together?"


    "And so what if you¡¯re together? Ji Yu was married before, wasn¡¯t she? And now she¡¯s divorced. If she can divorce once, why would I see your temporary status as hopeless?"


    Lu Xingchen suddenly felt as though he had convinced himself.


    Meanwhile, Gu Qixiao began to grasp the gravity of the situation.


    From a certain perspective, what he said wasn¡¯t actually wrong.


    He had always been hung up on titles and formalities, but now it seemed even those didn¡¯t count for much.


    "Don¡¯t get too cocky. Ji Yu has always been someone clear-cut about her feelings¡ªif you make her unhappy, breaking up is only a matter of time."


    Having been part of such a rtionship was a privilege in itself.


    He envied Gu Qixiao deeply but couldn¡¯t express it¡ªhe could only make pointed remarks about the situation.


    "I won¡¯t give you that chance. Besides, Yu is someone who puts great weight on things like this. She wouldn¡¯t leave on ount of a few fleeting grievances."


    He believed that firmly.


    Although he sessfully skewered Lu Xingchen enough to make him leave, when he returned to the hospital room, he still felt an emptiness inside¡ªa lingering fear of being abandoned by Ji Yu.


    He looked at her sleeping form, his emotions mingling into something indistinct.


    "Why does it feel this way?"


    Ultimately, he couldn¡¯t bear to interrupt Ji Yu¡¯s rest and merelyy down on the adjacent bed.


    But no matter why, every time he closed his eyes, Lu Xingchen¡¯s words surfaced in his mind, gnawing at him. He couldn¡¯t let go of his worry that Ji Yu might decisively let go of him someday.


    Thus, when Ji Yu opened her eyes, the first thing she saw was Gu Qixiao staring straight at her. For a moment, she was taken aback.


    "What are you doing?" Her face betrayed some confusion; she had no idea what he was up to.


    "Will you abandon me?" He felt that as a man, he shouldn¡¯t be so sentimental. But looking at Ji Yu always stirred his doubts.


    For a moment, Ji Yu didn¡¯t know how to respond.


    "Why are you even thinking about this? Since the two of us chose to be together, I wouldn¡¯t give up so easily."


    Besides, if anyone should talk about letting go, it ought to be Gu Qixiao¡ªhe had been the one to walk away first.


    Thinking about what happened back then, Ji Yu couldn¡¯t help but feel helpless, but she also knew it wasn¡¯t entirely Gu Qixiao¡¯s fault.


    "Stop overthinking things. I wouldn¡¯t abandon someone on a whim. Or do you have a guilty conscience, and that¡¯s why you¡¯re nervous?"


    "It¡¯s not guilt¡ªI¡¯m just worried that we face so many uncertainties." He did not want Ji Yu to leave.


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t quite grasp his meaning immediately, but seeing his tense demeanor, she figured he was overly wound up.


    "Don¡¯t assume the worst of everything." She wouldn¡¯t casually abandon anyone, and she didn¡¯t think such matters were something to be praised.


    "Could it be that Xingchen¡¯s words earlier made you misunderstand? He probably just sees me as a younger sister."


    Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t reply, but his expression grew even more conflicted. The problem was that Lu Xingchen had been so tant, and yet Ji Yu hadn¡¯t caught on¡ªwasn¡¯t she a bit too oblivious?


    "I only feel that we¡¯ve fought hard to get where we are, and I don¡¯t want to give up so easily." He knew Ji Yu would always weigh the pros and cons.


    "I¡¯ve chosen to be with you, and I absolutely won¡¯t entertain such thoughts anymore. Don¡¯t you trust me?" Ji Yu felt that the discussion was absurd.


    Nheless, she understood that previous events might have left some lingering shadows for Gu Qixiao. "Don¡¯t dwell on me choosing to let you go back then¡ªthat was because you failed to handle your rtionships properly. I still believe my decision back then was not wrong."


    His attitude toward Song Xuan had always been questionable.


    "I can overlook your past with Song Xuan, but you must promise that moving forward, she won¡¯t appear in front of me without reason."

 Chapter 181 Song Xuan’s Obsession

    <h4>Chapter 181: Chapter 181 Song Xuan¡¯s Obsession</h4>


    But clearly, even if Gu Qixiao could agree to this, Song Xuan definitely wouldn¡¯t.


    In the following days, she acted particrly enthusiastic, bringing food to Ji Yu almost every day.


    Ji Yu always looked at her disdainfully, "Do you think this kind of pretense is amusing?"


    She was about to be discharged soon and truly couldn¡¯t understand what the other woman¡¯s actions were meant to achieve.


    "If you like someone, you should straightforwardly express it. Since Gu Qixiao has already rejected you, wouldn¡¯t it be better to find someone else you like?"


    She had always found this kind of mentality perplexing¡ªwhy exhaust yourself entirely for one person?


    Is this person really so extraordinary that you need such tactics to bind him?


    "You wouldn¡¯t understand." Song Xuan¡¯s smile faded, and her gaze toward Ji Yu turned hateful.


    It was only because Gu Qixiao wasn¡¯t around that she dared to show such an expression to Ji Yu. "You have no idea how much pain I¡¯m truly in."


    Such pain couldn¡¯t be shared with anyone else. Even though her heart was filled with jealousy when facing Ji Yu, she had to maintain surface-level harmony.


    "Ji Yu, do you know how much I hate you?" Each time, she couldn¡¯t help but wish Ji Yu never appeared.


    "Don¡¯t you think your mindset is a bit extreme?" Ji Yu couldn¡¯t understand this situation and certainly preferred if the other woman refrained froming to vent her emotions at her.


    "No matter what you¡¯re feeling, I am not your outlet. The things you spew at me¡ªI have no obligation to help you with them."


    There wasn¡¯t any particr tie between them, and given their history of grudges, to be honest, Ji Yu had no reason to care about Song Xuan¡¯s feelings.


    But with her continually hovering around, Ji Yu felt she had no choice but to rify things.


    "Being with him is no betrayal to you. You don¡¯t need toe to me looking for a sense of presence because, in my eyes, you¡¯re nothing."


    Not even enough to count as a rival in love.


    These words pushed Song Xuan¡¯s emotions to the brink of copse. "Are you not afraid I¡¯ll steal Xiao from you?"


    "Why should I be afraid?" Ji Yu raised her eyebrows, her small face brimming with confidence. "I trust the person I¡¯ve chosen. I trust his feelings for me. I¡¯m also not afraid he¡¯ll leave me."


    This was the fundamental difference between them. In matters like this, it wasn¡¯t necessary to fret about gains or losses¡ªone simply needed to consider whether they felt fear.


    "I once believed rtionships should be carefully deliberated and that even a small issue meant we couldn¡¯t be together. But now I¡¯ve changed my mind. That¡¯s why you and I will never be the same kind of person. Don¡¯te looking for validation from me anymore; I find it annoying."


    Her demeanor was indifferent, as though Song Xuan was nothing more than an unwee existence.


    Song Xuan had originally wanted to rush forward and argue with Ji Yu but was stopped short when Gu Qixiao returned.


    "I understand. I¡¯ll keep my distance from Xiao. Honestly, I never even intended to steal him."


    With that, she ran away crying, appearing as though Ji Yu had bullied her.


    Anyone else might have misunderstood, but Gu Qixiao was long ustomed to Song Xuan¡¯s theatrics. He could only look at Ji Yu helplessly, "What did she do this time?"


    "Maybe she just enjoys putting on a show." Ji Yu couldn¡¯t even be bothered to assess her acting skills. Since Song Xuan enjoyed it, she might as well keep up the act.


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t want to waste energy talking about her.


    "Does the matter at yourpany need you to personally handle it?" Seeing Gu Qixiao¡¯s troubled expression, Ji Yu could guess the urgency of thepany¡¯s affairs.


    He nodded reluctantly, "Yes, but I¡¯m worried about your safety."


    "Old Master Lin is already dead; there¡¯s no need to worry anymore. Focus on handling your work." Ji Yu wasn¡¯t the type to insist on someone always staying by her side.


    Gu Qixiao still felt uneasy about Ji Yu being alone, so he arranged for a caregiver to stay with her.


    "Take good rest. Once I¡¯m done with work, I¡¯lle to see you."


    Initially, Ji Yu didn¡¯t see any problem with this arrangement, butter that night, she suddenly felt someone moving near her.


    "Mrs. Zhang?" She assumed it was the caregiver and called out her name.


    But in the next second, a pillow was pressed against her face.


    She immediately realized someone was trying to kill her. Without hesitation, she hit the call button by her bedside and kicked the assant in the leg.


    The attacker likely hadn¡¯t anticipated that Ji Yu had already recovered quite a bit. Her kick made them grunt.


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t stop there. Realizing the attacker had been momentarily caught off guard, she grabbed the pillow and pressed it against their face. When the doctor arrived, she handed the attacker over directly.


    "Looks like the security at your hospital isn¡¯t up to par."


    The doctor¡¯s expression turned awkward¡ªit waspletely unexpected to encounter a situation like this.


    Especially with the patient managing to subdue the attacker¡ªif anything went wrong, the hospital would undoubtedly be held ountable.


    "What, didn¡¯t anyone in your hospital check how this person managed to get in?"


    She hadn¡¯t looked closely at the attacker¡¯s face yet, but regardless, allowing someone like them to sneak in was egregious.


    "This is indeed our failure, Miss Ji. Do you recognize this person?"


    When Ji Yu saw the familiar face, she was surprised, "I do."


    She easily recognized Lin Chujian but couldn¡¯t understand why she would resort to such a method.


    "Aren¡¯t you busy fighting over the inheritance? How do you even have time toe and bother me? Do you realize the price you¡¯ll pay for this?"


    Even if she wanted to go back, there was no returning now.


    Lin Chujian¡¯s expression was cold and dejected, "And you have the nerve to talk? Ji Yu, you¡¯ve ruined everything for me. Why does a damned nuisance like you get to keep living?"


    She was hysterical, convinced that Ji Yu hadpletely disrupted her life.


    If Ji Yu had never appeared, none of this would¡¯ve happened.


    "Ji Yu, why won¡¯t you leave me alone? I could¡¯ve lived happily, and maybe even been with the man I love. But because of you, now I¡¯ve lost my inheritance, lost the man I love. Tell me, why wouldn¡¯t I do this to you?"


    Lost her inheritance?


    Ji Yu thought back to Lin Wenyan¡¯s prior arrangements and deduced a few things. It seemed Lin Wenyan¡¯s n had seeded.


    "What does that have to do with me? Was I the one who messed with you first? Your family is great at twisting cause and effect, aren¡¯t they?"


    They never acknowledged their own wrongdoings, but the reality was¡ªher troubles began with them.


    Ji Yu had nothing but contempt for such behavior.


    "Before doing something, shouldn¡¯t you carefully consider the price you¡¯ll ultimately have to pay?"

 Chapter 182: The Price Paid

    <h4>Chapter 182: Chapter 182: The Price Paid</h4>


    "You think I took everything from you, but all of this had never belonged to you in the first ce. Lin Wenyan took your inheritance, so why don¡¯t you go after Lin Wenyan?"


    It¡¯s not like she didn¡¯t try, but when nothing came of it, she came to Ji Yu to vent her anger.


    But Ji Yu was no pushover; she wouldn¡¯t shy away from situations like this.


    "Look at yourself. Do you think arguing with me about this will do you any good?"


    If it doesn¡¯t help, there¡¯s no need for it to exist.


    "Whether or not I know this person, it¡¯s clearly a problem with your hospital¡¯s security, isn¡¯t it? How can anyone just walk into my ward like this? What exactly am I paying for?"


    The doctor knew Ji Yu was difficult to deal with, so they had no choice but to send the intruder to the police station first.


    "We¡¯ll definitely give you an exnation for this. Can we ask that this matter not rm Mr. Gu for now?"


    Ji Yu raised her brows. "Let¡¯s see how you handle it."


    She didn¡¯t want to bother with such matters.


    As Lin Chujian was taken away, she still red venomously at Ji Yu, as if Ji Yu had wronged her beyond reason.


    But Ji Yu wouldn¡¯t let herself be tormented by someone else¡¯s affairs. It was their problem; why would they me her?


    The next day, when Gu Qixiao came to visit, she indeed didn¡¯t mention the issue proactively, but Gu Qixiao already knew.


    "I¡¯m sorry, Yu. I didn¡¯t make it in time forst night¡¯s incident."


    "If it¡¯s something I can handle myself, there¡¯s no need to trouble you." She was very clear about what she needed.


    "Last night, she likely lost control because of the Lin family and then pinned everything on me." Ji Yu thought Lin Chujian¡¯s logic was odd.


    If she wanted the inheritance, shouldn¡¯t she be going after Lin Wenyan? Why bother her?


    Actually, Gu Qixiao had returned to hispany yesterday to discuss a coboration with the Lin family.


    "I finalized the coboration with Lin Wenyan yesterday, and then this happenedst night¡ªit¡¯s all my fault."


    He trusted Lin Wenyan¡¯s reliability and agreed to continue the partnership but didn¡¯t anticipate Lin Chujian losing herposure.


    Ji Yu also acknowledged Lin Wenyan¡¯s dependability. "Her business isn¡¯t worth overthinking. I wasn¡¯t really affected, and the police will handle her issues in due time."


    Such matters were best left to the police.


    "Besides, I feel that my condition has improved. I want to be discharged."


    She didn¡¯t need to stay hospitalized anymore. Last night¡¯s incident felt like a testament to her abilities¡ªshe wielded her strength effectively and didn¡¯t think she needed further hospital confinement.


    "What did the doctor say?"


    "They¡¯re probably still busy with Lin Chujian¡¯s case; they don¡¯t have time for mine right now." Besides, Ji Yu didn¡¯t have any significant health concerns to begin with.


    After consulting the doctor, the doctor confirmed that Ji Yu could be discharged, although she would still need to recuperate at home.


    "Thank you."


    Ji Yu hadn¡¯t actually med the hospital staff forst night¡¯s incident.


    Once the matter was resolved and everyone had left, the doctors breathed a sigh of relief, realizing that if incidents like these continued, the hospital might face bankruptcy.


    Naturally, Ji Yu¡¯s discharge was entirely arranged by Gu Qixiao¡ªshe didn¡¯t want the Ji family to fret.


    Still, when her parents saw Ji Yu return home, they were worried. "Why didn¡¯t you stay longer at the hospital, child? Are you feeling better yet?"


    Ji Yu understood their concerns about her health, but she really had recovered for the most part.


    "I¡¯m fine, Mom. Don¡¯t worry about me. As long as you both stay healthy, I don¡¯t have any problems."


    She had spent enough days in the hospital and didn¡¯t need to dwell on it any longer.


    Madam Ji sighed helplessly.


    But seeing how close Ji Yu and Gu Qixiao were, she had a hunch about their rtionship.


    "Are you and Gu together now?"


    Ji Yu knew how much Gu Qixiao cared about formalities. "Yes, Gu Qixiao and I are together."


    Soon enough, a smile tugged irresistibly at Gu Qixiao¡¯s lips, making it clear how much this mattered to him.


    Though Ji Yu couldn¡¯t fully understand his feelings, she was willing to provide him with simple happiness.


    Madam Ji¡¯s impression of Gu Qixiao was quite favorable. "Since you¡¯re together now, treat each other well. And don¡¯t turn out like your brother¡ªlook at him, still moping in his room."


    Ji Yu wasn¡¯t entirely up to date on Ji Yuanzhou¡¯s situation.


    "What¡¯s wrong with my brother?"


    "Isn¡¯t it about Qinqin? He turned her down before, and now that Qinqin is getting engaged, he¡¯s upset but too embarrassed to approach her." Saying this, Madam Ji looked somewhat annoyed, seemingly disappointed in her son¡¯sck of initiative.


    Ji Yu had only just heard about Feng Qinqin¡¯s engagement. "When did this happen?"


    "It was finalized recently. Your brother didn¡¯t cherish her before, and now he seems so affected¡ªit¡¯s absurd."


    Her disapproval of Ji Yuanzhou¡¯s actions made her reluctant to see Feng Qinqin hurt.


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t know what to say to that.


    "Matters of the heart rely on timing. If my brother missed his chance, then regret won¡¯t help him now."


    Of course, fate often worked in mysterious ways.


    Thinking of this, Ji Yu couldn¡¯t help but look at the person beside her. Every time she saw Gu Qixiao, she felt a sense of wonder¡ªthat after their divorce and subsequent misunderstandings, they still found their way back to each other.


    Gu Qixiao held Ji Yu¡¯s hand firmly, their closeness evident.


    "Since Gu brought you back, why don¡¯t you stay for lunch together?"


    Madam Ji knew Gu Qixiao treated Ji Yu well, and she was d they had found happiness together.


    Gu Qixiao had no objections.


    However, during lunch, when Ji Yuanzhou saw how close Gu Qixiao and Ji Yu were, it only made him feel worse.


    His feelings were something only he could understand.


    "What¡¯s with the look on your face? Gu is just here for a meal, and you act so bothered? Weren¡¯t you the one who said you didn¡¯t like Qinqin? What is there to regret?"


    Madam Ji finally sighed outright.


    If this issue wasn¡¯t resolved, the atmosphere at the table would remain awkward.


    Ji Yuanzhou knew it wasn¡¯t right, but he couldn¡¯t figure out how to face reality.


    "Mom, I¡¯m just feeling a little down." He didn¡¯t say he wanted to do anything, but clearly, Qinqin was still on his mind.


    Hearing this, Madam Ji grew even more frustrated. "If you¡¯re like this and don¡¯t n to take action, then you deserve to be alone."


    Well, wasn¡¯t it his own doing?

 Chapter 183: Power

    <h4>Chapter 183: Chapter 183: Power</h4>


    Clearly, Ji Yuanzhou¡¯s attitude this time was somewhat aggravating.


    Still, Ji Yuanzhou truly didn¡¯t know how to face Feng Qinqin.


    The words he said before still echoed in his ears¡ªhow could they meet again?


    "I¡¯ve finished eating, you both can keep eating,"


    He nced at Ji Yu and Gu Qixiao, their demeanor making him even more irritated.


    Already annoyed inside, he now felt an even stronger urge to cut ties directly.


    After he left, Gu Qixiao was also a bit puzzled, not understanding the other person¡¯s motives.


    Ji Yu figured Ji Yuanzhou was likely still upset over what had happened with Gu Qixiao earlier.


    After finishing the meal, she didn¡¯t forget to remind Gu Qixiao, "Don¡¯t always worry about me."


    Currently, she had no significant issues. Now that old Master Lin had passed away, even if someone wanted to stir up trouble, they wouldn¡¯t have the ability.


    "Alright." Gu Qixiao still had urgent matters to handle, so he rushed off to thepany.


    Although Ji Yu didn¡¯t know what he was busy with, the next few days without any updates felt a bit odd.


    Of course, Gu Qixiao hadn¡¯t forgotten to send Assistant Li over to greet Ji Yu. "Miss Ji, our President Gu has some matters to attend to and needs to travel abroad for business. If you need anything during this time, just let me know."


    Ji Yu could understand this, "No need, I don¡¯t have anything urgent."


    She was currently in a safe situation; what would she need this for?


    But Assistant Li was insistent.


    "Miss Ji, please don¡¯t be modest. This is arranged by our President Gu, and he won¡¯t let you encounter any safety issues."


    Ji Yu sighed, "I really don¡¯t need you all constantly shadowing me."


    Not even a moment of free activity was allowed¡ªbesides, what purpose did such surveince serve?


    Could it be that she, in the ce she knew the best, would encounter trouble?


    Assistant Li also seemed helpless. "Miss Ji, as you know, the previous incident truly frightened our President. ording to his orders, since something happened in such a short span before, this time we need to remain extra vignt."


    This phrasing made it sound like Ji Yu could run into trouble at any moment.


    Hadn¡¯t the previous matter already been exined thoroughly?


    "You¡¯re overthinking. I¡¯m back home now, and old Master Lin has already passed away. What, do you think he could rise from the dead ande drag me away?"


    Such notions were utterly absurd.


    Yet speaking of this, Ji Yu did suddenly think of something¡ªa few days ago Lin Wenyan had apparently tried to contact her.


    "Since you insist on following me, then I¡¯ll take you to some ¡¯dangerous¡¯ ce."


    Under Assistant Li¡¯s puzzled gaze, Ji Yu directly took them to the police station.


    "I want to see Lin Chujian."


    She hadn¡¯t yet rified who had tipped off Lin Chujian, enabling them to locate her position at that time and sneak in undetected. Without someone¡¯s help, she simply wouldn¡¯t believe it.


    In truth, Lin Chujian didn¡¯t want to see Ji Yu either. "What are you here for? To revel in my misfortune?"


    "I¡¯m certainly not here to revel in your misfortune. I just want to ask you¡ªwho leaked the information?"


    She knew Lin Chujian wouldn¡¯t willingly stay in the police station indefinitely.


    "Don¡¯t you want to go back and keep fighting for the inheritance? You¡¯ve put in so much effort all this time, and now it¡¯s all gone. Don¡¯t you feel regret?"


    Of course, she regretted it.


    She hated it with all her heart but remained utterly powerless. Lin Wenyan¡¯s influence had quietly swallowed up all her allies.


    "You and Lin Wenyan have a partnership, don¡¯t you? Do you really believe you¡¯d help me? Do you think I¡¯m that naive?" She sneered coldly, thinking Ji Yu¡¯s actions at the moment were making a mockery of her.


    "You¡¯ve misunderstood me. I certainly don¡¯t see you as naive. I simply think your current behavior is unfathomable. Do you honestly believe I¡¯m your adversary?"


    Who was the actual adversary¡ªcouldn¡¯t one discern that?


    Perhaps Ji Yu¡¯s words were indeed hard to catch the meaning of, even Assistant Li couldn¡¯t understand why Ji Yu would say such things.


    "Think hard about it yourself. You¡¯re in a situation now where you¡¯ve lost everything. Between continuing the fight with Lin Wenyan and enduring your current state, which is more painful? I¡¯ll wait for your answer."


    She kept her smile, but Lin Chujian felt as though Ji Yu knew everything¡ªas if she considered every consequence no matter the decision.


    "Ji Yu... do you know everything?"


    "What could I possibly know? I only want to find out who¡¯s trying to harm me. That simple question¡ªyou should be able to answer, right? If you tell me, you¡¯ll get to leave this ce. Isn¡¯t that a good deal?"


    "You¡¯d really let me out?" She looked at Ji Yu skeptically, suspecting her of deliberately coaxing her into revealing the truth.


    "If you believe it, it¡¯s true. If you don¡¯t, it¡¯s false. Besides, you have nowhere else to turn, right?" Ji Yu held absolute control over the situation.


    Lin Chujian had no opportunity to choose another path.


    Someone in her circumstances was destined to walk the path Ji Yu hadid out.


    The room fell silent for a moment.


    Lin Chujian couldn¡¯t think of anything to say¡ªperhaps she truly regretted her actions, leaving her feeling resentful now.


    "I can tell you, but honestly, even I¡¯ve never met this person. I only know the messages they sent were all urate and all connected to you."


    She harbored resentment toward Ji Yu and couldn¡¯t control herself when she saw the information, leading her actions down this path.


    Looking back now, the other party seemed deliberately intent on provoking her.


    "Didn¡¯t you find it odd at the time?"


    Judging by this description, it was obviously intentional.


    Moreover, this person was likely someone familiar with the situation, though Ji Yu couldn¡¯t pinpoint that person for now.


    "I don¡¯t know who they are, so can you let me out now?" She was desperate to leave this dreadful ce¡ªit was torture.


    Ji Yu was consistent with her word. "Since I said you¡¯d be released, I won¡¯t go back on my promise. After leaving, you¡¯d better note after me again. Also, today is old Master Lin¡¯s funeral."


    That was her final hint.


    After resolving the matter, she left the police station with Assistant Li.


    Assistant Li continued to wear a perplexed expression.


    "Why did you decide to help Lin Chujian? If I recall correctly, you seem to have a closer rtionship with Lin Wenyan."


    Wasn¡¯t this aiding the enemy?


    "Who do you think orchestrated this whole affair?" Ji Yu didn¡¯t answer the question, instead countering with one of her own.


    Assistant Li hesitated to respond, but judging by Ji Yu¡¯s demeanor, she seemed to already know who it was.

 Chapter 184: Human Heart

    <h4>Chapter 184: Chapter 184: Human Heart</h4>


    "Never trust someone too much, or you¡¯ll definitely encounter problems down the road. So, Lin Wenyan knew I wouldn¡¯t be in danger, and his arrangements make sense to me."


    She wouldn¡¯t trust people casually, but at the same time, she wouldn¡¯t let herself be bullied without reason.


    In fact, Assistant Li couldn¡¯t see any connection between these things, but seeing Ji Yu¡¯s confidence, he really didn¡¯t know what to say and chose to stay silent.


    Ji Yu looked at him and immediately knew he was still considering whether this matter was true or not.


    "You don¡¯t have to worry about whether it¡¯s true or not. Lin Wenyan will contact me once he learns about it. You don¡¯t need to tell Gu Qixiao either."


    This issue wouldn¡¯t affect their coboration.


    Minor things like this are best left alone.


    It turned out Ji Yu was right.


    Lin Wenyan contacted Ji Yu the very next day, and he didn¡¯t appear angry in the slightest.


    "Doctor Ji really takes matters seriously. That said, I was indeed wrong here. I didn¡¯t tie up loose ends properly back then, and I appreciate the time you helped me gain."


    He spoke calmly and confidently, without looking guilty in the slightest.


    Ji Yu was already used to this kind of behavior, but she was also curious about what was going on with him.


    "You¡¯ve always known how seriously I take things. Why didn¡¯t you tell me beforehand and coordinate?"


    "I wanted to discuss it with you, but isn¡¯t there that person beside you?" Lin Wenyan sounded helpless; sometimes he didn¡¯t know how to describe Gu Qixiao.


    Perhaps "lunatic" would be the most fitting term.


    "In front of you, sure, he¡¯s calm enough and amodating. But in front of me, that¡¯s not the case."


    It felt like he was ready to fight at any moment. Fortunately, Lin Wenyan¡¯s arrangements had been well-timed recently, so he hadn¡¯t been caught yet.


    "If Gu Qixiao finds out about this, I¡¯ll probably wind up in serious trouble."


    Things like this definitely required a bit of caution.


    Ji Yu understood such situations and, upon hearing this, thought Gu Qixiao actually seemed somewhat adorable.


    "He¡¯s not as terrible as you think. He¡¯s just particrly stubborn about matters involving me. I know his intentions and all the efforts he¡¯s been making recently."


    Lin Wenyan could only shut up after hearing this. After all, mentioning such things in front of a lovey-dovey couple would inevitably make him look bad.


    He didn¡¯t understand this type of scenario.


    And, of course, he wouldn¡¯t try such arrangements again, as they clearly hadn¡¯t worked well.


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t know what to say next.


    Perhaps it was Lin Wenyan¡¯s obvious disdain that made her pause.


    "Neither of us owes the other anything for this incident. There¡¯s no need to dwell on it going forward. I know you¡¯re a straightforward person."


    Over the recent weeks, he¡¯de to understand Ji Yu¡¯s personality quite well, so he decided toy things out clearly.


    Ji Yu raised an eyebrow, her expression neutral. "Are you trying to suggest I shouldn¡¯t tell Gu Qixiao?"


    If Gu Qixiao learned about this, there¡¯d surely be trouble. Lin Wenyan just wanted to live peacefully for a while, especially after gaining ess to such valuable resources.


    "Let¡¯s just consider this as me owing you one."


    Finally, Ji Yu was satisfied.


    Still, she didn¡¯t have the time to keep talking about it. "I promise I won¡¯t. Now I have things to deal with on his end. I won¡¯t be joining you for dinner tonight."


    Seeing how hurried she looked, Lin Wenyan didn¡¯t say anything else.


    He merely found it puzzling how she always seemed so busy, without ever showing what she was upied with.


    In truth, Ji Yu was caught up in handling matters between Ji Yuanzhou and Feng Qinqin.


    She couldn¡¯t understand how two people who clearly liked each other had ended up in such a situation.


    Originally, Feng Qinqin intended to keep the matter hidden from Ji Yu, but since Ji Yu had already arrived, she figured Ji Yu likely knew the truth.


    "I¡¯m sorry, Yuyu. I initially nned to keep this under wraps for now."


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t see why such a thing should be kept secret. "Don¡¯t you think this is wrong? What¡¯s going on with you and my brother?"


    Both of them acted so melodramatic, yet neither seemed willing to talk¡ªwas this supposed to help their rtionship?


    Speaking of Ji Yuanzhou, her expression turned bitter. "I know Ji Yuanzhou doesn¡¯t like me. I don¡¯t want to keep struggling anymore. Things have reached this point; we might as well go our separate ways."


    Dragging this on was doing neither of them any good.


    Ji Yu felt helpless, believing the situation needed some time to work itself out.


    But it simply wouldn¡¯t resolve unless the two of them started talking.


    "Come on, let¡¯s sit down and talk it out. I want to know what¡¯s really going on¡ªdo you both like each other or not? Why can¡¯t you just speak inly when you meet?"


    Everyone sulking secretly as though things were hopeless¡ªit¡¯s as if they were pretending this was the worst situation possible.


    They had the chance to exin everything, but instead mmed up. Were they nning to put on some kind of show?


    "I don¡¯t know what to say." Feng Qinqin seemed reluctant to meet with Ji Yuanzhou. Whenever they saw each other, it always went the same way, and she had grown tired of it all.


    "Yuyu, please don¡¯t make me keep struggling. I¡¯ve already given up. This situation is just too painful for me. He doesn¡¯t like me, and I don¡¯t like him anymore."


    If someone doesn¡¯t love you, no matter how much you say, it won¡¯t make a difference.


    Ji Yu found the whole thing even harder to understand. "Wait a minute, something doesn¡¯t seem right. My brother was barely eating or sleeping after hearing about your engagement. If that¡¯s not love, what is it?"


    This didn¡¯t add up.


    From the start, everything about this situation was different from what they imagined.


    Perhaps, as an outsider, Ji Yu saw things more clearly than they did.


    "You¡¯re overthinking everything. Right now, nothing¡¯s settled. You two need to sit down and talk properly. I refuse to believe there¡¯s no solution."


    She wouldn¡¯t ept such an oue. And besides, what had they talked about thest time they met? Ji Yu had arranged for them to meet simply so that they could share their feelings.


    Feng Qinqin had no choice but to go with her and see for herself what would happen.


    Deep down, she still had hope. Why else would she agree to meet him?


    Meanwhile, Ji Yu didn¡¯t idle; when arranging for Ji Yuanzhou to meet, she didn¡¯t forget toy out how bad things were.


    "[Brother, I need to talk to you about this. Qinqin¡¯s fianc¨¦ is awful¡ªhe keeps belittling her.]"

 Chapter 185 Matchmaking

    <h4>Chapter 185: Chapter 185 Matchmaking</h4>


    Ji Yu silently murmured an apology in her heart. She could only temporarily cken the name of this fianc¨¦, even though she hadn¡¯t met him yet. Someone had to make a sacrifice for this matter, after all.


    [By the way, Qinqin, don¡¯t argue yet. You can¡¯t imagine how angry I was when I saw it. If you still like Qinqin, you shoulde here quickly. I think this matter still needs you to step up.]


    Originally, Ji Yuanzhou didn¡¯t want toe, but after seeing this message, he found it hard to ept.


    He might not like Feng Qinqin, but he absolutely couldn¡¯t allow her to be wronged.


    He rushed to the scene in a hurry, only to see Ji Yu and Feng Qinqin sitting together, with Feng Qinqin¡¯s eyes looking a little red.


    His mind immediately jumped to the things Ji Yu had said earlier.


    He suddenly felt a pang of heartache for all the hardships Feng Qinqin had endured.


    "Qinqin, what¡¯s the matter?"


    "This has nothing to do with you." Feng Qinqin, in truth, felt a bit happy, but whenever she saw him, she couldn¡¯t help butment why he was here.


    He had clearly stated before that he didn¡¯t like her, so why was he here again? Was he here to mock her?


    "Are you here tough at me? Does this kind of thing benefit you somehow?"


    She had always felt that situations like this were awful.


    And yet, for reasons unknown to her, she still wanted to see him.


    "Don¡¯t be like this..." He wanted to say somethingforting to Feng Qinqin, but seeing her like this left himpletely speechless.


    Off to the side, Ji Yu was growing more and more anxious, utterly confused by her elder brother¡¯s behavior.


    Why couldn¡¯t he say a word in a situation like this?


    "Brother, why don¡¯t you say the things you¡¯ve said at home? How do you really feel about Qinqin? Can¡¯t you just speak it out loud?"


    Did she really need to teach him how to handle matters like this?


    For a moment, she didn¡¯t even know what to say.


    Perhaps situations like this were indeed painful.


    But no matter how hard Ji Yuanzhou tried, he couldn¡¯t get the words out, as if something inside was holding him back.


    Ji Yu couldn¡¯t understand what was wrong with him. Was facing someone he liked really this nerve-wracking?


    "Brother, say it! At home, you talk so much, even feeling heartbroken over Qinqin¡¯s engagement, and you¡¯ve gone as far as losing your appetite over her. Now, why is even one sentence so hard for you?"


    She even mouthed the words "fianc¨¦" at him.


    This gave Ji Yuanzhou the courage he desperately needed. "Qinqin, I¡¯m sorry. Actually, I like you, but I never knew how to say it or how to express it. Your fianc¨¦ isn¡¯t good for you at all. Come with me."


    He still felt somewhat timid.


    Perhaps moments like this were a novel experience for him.


    Not just Feng Qinqin¡ªeven Ji Yu was stunned. Wasn¡¯t that confession perfect?


    Feng Qinqin felt utterly shocked. "You said you like me? But why have I never felt that before?"


    Every time she asked Ji Yuanzhou, she was met with denial. Situations like this were truly hard to ept.


    Feng Qinqin honestly didn¡¯t know how to respond. "Is everything you just said true?"


    "It¡¯s true."


    After saying those words, he felt a surge of relief, as if he no longer needed to worry so much about what would happen between them.


    Clearing the air and speaking honestly made everything better than anything else.


    "But my fianc¨¦ is still good to me."


    Ji Yu felt helpless. Of all times to say this, why now?


    Ji Yuanzhou, however, misunderstood, thinking that she was acting out of anger but unable to speak the truth.


    "Don¡¯t worry. Even if his family tries to cause trouble for you, I¡¯ll stand by your side. I won¡¯t let you be wronged, no matter what."


    Ji Yu was already very familiar with situations like this, so she now stood firmly by Feng Qinqin¡¯s side as well.


    "Qinqin, see? Didn¡¯t I say that there was definitely a misunderstanding between you two? Can you talk things through now?"


    She understood that they were probably feeling awkward, so she didn¡¯t want to stay and disrupt their conversation.


    "I know you two still have plenty to talk about, so I¡¯ll be heading out now."


    She left everything else to them.


    As Ji Yu left hurriedly, Feng Qinqin felt a little embarrassed. But this time, Ji Yuanzhou firmly held her hand.


    "I¡¯m sorry. Before, I didn¡¯t have enough courage. That¡¯s why I let you down and made you cry so much, looking so awful."


    "Who are you calling awful?" Feng Qinqin grasped the key point immediately, and the blush on her face vanished.


    It was a big deal.


    No matter how much she cried, she absolutely wouldn¡¯t look awful!


    Ji Yuanzhou realized his slip-up. "That¡¯s not what I meant. I meant you looked so distressed at that time. I didn¡¯t know how to express myself then."


    He knew better than to spell things out too explicitly.


    Otherwise, he¡¯d end up with a headache.


    Meanwhile, Ji Yu had already rushed off elsewhere, knowing full well that their situation required a proper resolution. Otherwise, no one would be able to handle it.


    Assistant Li had been observing the matter all along. "Miss Ji, President Gu mentioned he¡¯d be returning tomorrow and asked if there¡¯s anywhere you¡¯d like to go."


    "No." Right now, she only wanted a good rest.


    Her growing belly was likely the reason for her mounting sleepiness in recent days.


    Assistant Li also noticed how much Ji Yu seemed to be sleepingtely and ryed the information to Gu Qixiao.


    Gu Qixiao, however, came fully prepared.


    When he visited the Ji family, he hadn¡¯t forgotten to bring gifts.


    Ji Yu looked at the items with confusion written all over her face.


    "Did you bring back an entire supermarket?"


    These things were all readily avable locally, so why did he have to buy them from abroad?


    "I just enjoy buying things for you. Besides, I know you¡¯ll like them."


    In the corner sat a small plush toy. Although Ji Yu hadn¡¯t noticed it at first, she quickly saw that it was the centerpiece of the gifts when she caught Gu Qixiao¡¯s expectant gaze.


    "Did you make this yourself?" Holding the toy in her arms, she could tell that Gu Qixiao¡¯s craftsmanship had improved significantly since thest time.


    Gu Qixiao felt a little embarrassed but admitted it anyway. "I promised you before I¡¯d make a nice plush toy for you. Consider this me fulfilling that promise."


    He loved seeing Ji Yu¡¯s happy expression, so gifting her things felt like the best oue.


    Ji Yu felt touched. "Thank you."


    She knew how hard Gu Qixiao had been working to change for her.


    Gu Qixiao, though, felt this was all as it should be. "These are all things I wanted to give to you."


    She genuinely liked situations like this.


    She¡¯d known Gu Qixiao¡¯s feelings beforehand, and now she cherished them even more.

 Chapter 186: Deep Affection and Great Loyalty

    <h4>Chapter 186: Chapter 186: Deep Affection and Great Loyalty</h4>


    When she saw this doll, Ji Yu knew that Gu Qixiao was being serious. After all, a gift like this is all about the sentiment behind it.


    Once she understood Gu Qixiao¡¯s intentions, she realized that there was no way she could avoid what was happening between them.


    "Gu Qixiao, sometimes you really y by your own rules."


    Things he clearly had no reason to know, he always seemed to find out from some obscure corner.


    Now, what he gave to Ji Yu would always feel like a surprise.


    "As long as it¡¯s something you like, I¡¯m willing to prepare it. Besides, isn¡¯t that normal?" For something given to the person he cared for, it must carry meaning.


    Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t see any problem with this at all.


    Of course, Madam Ji and Mr. Ji received gifts as well, just not as many as Ji Yu.


    Seeing how happy Ji Yu and Gu Qixiao seemed together, they became increasingly satisfied with Gu Qixiao too.


    "Since the two of you are already together and seem to value each other so much, why not find some time to meet each other¡¯s parents?"


    Ji Yu nearly choked when she heard this. Before Gu Qixiao could say a word, she immediately rejected the suggestion. "Mom, let¡¯s not. I think we need more time to think about this. Gu Qixiao and I really aren¡¯t at that stage yet."


    Gu Qixiao might not know her true identity, but Mr. Gu was a different matter entirely.


    She felt a headacheing on. She wasn¡¯t sure how she would exin things when the time came. Should she just chalk it up to fate?


    Gu Qixiao gave Ji Yu a slightly aggrieved look, as though wondering why she didn¡¯t want to meet their parents.


    "Yu, do you really think we¡¯re not there yet? But I already want to marry you."


    He looked truly forlorn.


    But Ji Yu knew Gu Qixiao wasn¡¯t joking.


    "Don¡¯t be like this. We¡¯ve only just confirmed our rtionship. Isn¡¯t talking about marriage already a bit too rushed?"


    They should rify things between them first before even thinking about the rest. Otherwise, it could be incredibly awkwardter.


    Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t understand why Ji Yu thought this way, but seeing how serious she looked, he had no choice but to relent.


    "Alright, I¡¯ll wait until you say yes. Yu, I won¡¯t give up on you."


    Their rtionship was bound to blossom and bear fruit one day.


    Ji Yu had no idea what to say for a moment. She thought, perhaps only Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t know¡ªthey had already crossed that line long ago. He simply hadn¡¯t cherished it back then.


    Her thoughts were in a jumble, but she knew she couldn¡¯t me Gu Qixiao for any of this.


    "Let me think it over properly. Don¡¯t take it the wrong way; I¡¯m not saying you¡¯re wrong. I just feel like this kind of decision requires careful consideration."


    To be fair, not getting married wouldn¡¯t be so bad either.


    The two of them could continue to care for each other in this way, and it wouldn¡¯t really be a problem.


    Seeing Ji Yu looking as if she was lost in thought, Gu Qixiao was reminded of Ji Yu¡¯s ex-husband. He figured this man must have caused her quite a bit of pain.


    "Yu, I know you¡¯ve had a failed marriage before, but I won¡¯t treat you the way he did."


    The man himself was right here¡ªwhat could Ji Yu possibly say?


    She could only keep silent for the time being.


    Such things were unpredictable for anyone.


    She could only hope that when the truth came out, Gu Qixiao wouldn¡¯t feel too awkward about it.


    "Gu Qixiao, do you think everything I¡¯m doing is because of my past marriage? The truth is, I just want to be with you. That¡¯s all I need. There¡¯s no need to let marriage tie us down."


    To her, marriage might be more of a burden.


    Besides, true love didn¡¯t require a marriage certificate to validate it.


    But Gu Qixiao firmly disagreed. "I want a proper title."


    When it came to this issue, he couldn¡¯t help feeling insecure. After all, there were too many people around Ji Yu. He was afraid he might truly lose her one day.


    "I know you don¡¯t want to get married right now, so I can wait. But you absolutely cannot deny my role. I am your boyfriend."


    And someday, her husband as well.


    He was supremely confident about that.


    Looking at his silly determination, Ji Yu suddenly thought of Feng Qinqin¡¯s earlierment about him: "Idiot."


    Even being called an idiot didn¡¯t bother Gu Qixiao. As long as Ji Yu continued to love him like this, their rtionship would never stall.


    Besides, he would keep working hard to stay by Ji Yu¡¯s side.


    Watching him try to pick out even more gifts, Ji Yu felt a bit helpless. "You¡¯ve bought way too many things. I can¡¯t even use them all."


    "As long as you like them, that¡¯s what matters." The matter of not using them was something they could worry aboutter.


    For now, what was important was that Ji Yu liked them.


    Ji Yu wasn¡¯t sure how to respond to him.


    "I like spending money on my girlfriend. Nobody can stop me."


    Hearing this, Ji Yu couldn¡¯t help but smile.


    "Then you¡¯d better prepare to spend a lot. I¡¯m quite an expensive person."


    "Everything I earn is for my wife¡¯s happiness," he said confidently.


    If it weren¡¯t for thepany bringing in money, why else would he bother managing it?


    Ji Yu couldn¡¯t help butugh at that. "Gu Qixiao, sometimes you¡¯re just in silly."


    It seemed like there wasn¡¯t a thing he wouldn¡¯t do the way she wanted it.


    Madam Ji, seeing their affectionate behavior, waited until Gu Qixiao left before asking Ji Yu why she didn¡¯t want to get married.


    "I just don¡¯t have any ns to marry for now." There were still lingering shadows in Ji Yu¡¯s mind regarding Gu Qixiao.


    Of course, it wasn¡¯t all his fault. They didn¡¯t even know each other back then. But it was indeed something Gu Qixiao had done.


    "Some things are better handled one step at a time. Mom, do you really want me to rush into marriage?"


    "Of course not." Madam Ji also hoped Ji Yu would take her time thinking things through.


    "It¡¯s just that, seeing how sweet the two of you are, I feel like it¡¯s bound to happen sooner orter. I only asked because if his family were to have any issues, we could prepare in advance." She was worried that Ji Yu might end up with a difficult mother-inw.


    Thinking about the Gu family¡¯s parents, Ji Yu felt calm. "They¡¯re good people."


    But what kind of good people was still up in the air.


    Her past rtionship with Mr. Gu had been quite positive.


    "Mom, you don¡¯t have to worry about those things. Besides, do you think I¡¯d ever let myself be wronged? If they didn¡¯t like me, I wouldn¡¯t marry Gu Qixiao."


    She wasn¡¯t the kind of person who¡¯d tolerate that kind of life.


    Hearing this, Madam Ji couldn¡¯t help but sigh. "You really don¡¯t let yourself suffer, but all I want is for you to be happy. That¡¯s what truly matters."


    As long as she was happy, nothing else really mattered.


    Leaning against her mother, Ji Yu felt the warmth of her care and was grateful that, even though she didn¡¯t have parents of her own, she still had this kind of love.


    "Mom, I¡¯ll make sure to fully enjoy my happiness."

 Chapter 187 Happiness

    <h4>Chapter 187: Chapter 187 Happiness</h4>


    But Ji Yu still had some reservations about Gu Qixiao.


    Of course, this matter couldn¡¯t be a top priority for now.


    After learning that the rtionship between Feng Qinqin and Ji Yuanzhou had finally warmed up, she simply decided to ask Feng Qinqin out directly.


    "Come on, tell me about your current situation. I¡¯m really curious how you two manage to like each other yet constantly hurt each other in silence."


    It truly piqued her curiosity.


    However, Feng Qinqin seemed a little embarrassed.


    Mainly because the things that had happened earlier were indeed a bit difficult to talk about.


    "I don¡¯t really know how to put it, but back then, I¡¯d already said everything I needed to say. It was Ji Yuanzhou who didn¡¯t say anything."


    Thinking about it, she was still a little angry.


    "I, as a girl, was already so proactive, yet he still said something like that. Of course I¡¯d be upset."


    Ji Yu could somewhat rte to this. Thinking about Ji Yuanzhou¡¯s behavior when the two of them met, she also felt her big brother really needed to learn how to speak properly.


    "So what¡¯s the situation now between you two?"


    "I¡¯ll make him properly pursue me. Otherwise, what does it mean if we muddle into being together just like that?" When she talked about this, she was clearly frustrated.


    But she didn¡¯t forget to share Ji Yuanzhou¡¯s recent behavior with Ji Yu. "He¡¯s been behaving decently for the past couple of days, but I¡¯m not nning to ept him for now."


    "What about the fianc¨¦?"


    "I was originally forced to find this fianc¨¦, so there¡¯s no way I¡¯ll continue with it now. I¡¯ve already made things clear, and he doesn¡¯t seem intent on pestering me further." Talking about this, she felt a bit apologetic.


    Maybe it really wasn¡¯t wise to talk about someone behind their back.


    Because just as they finished discussing the matter of this fianc¨¦, the man suddenly appeared in front of them.


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t really have an impression of this person, but she instinctively felt there was something unsettling about him.


    Ji Yu was very sensitive to such things, so she immediately grabbed Feng Qinqin¡¯s hand, pulling her to sit beside her.


    "Is this the fianc¨¦ you mentioned before?"


    "Yes, his name is Li Yu." The name stuck with her as well.


    But Ji Yu had this faint feeling she had seen this person before, though she couldn¡¯t quite recall where.


    "Hello, I hope I¡¯m not interrupting your meal?"


    "Not really." Ji Yu¡¯s expression was cold, obviously unweing.


    Li Yu didn¡¯t overstep his bounds. Noticing Ji Yu¡¯s unweing demeanor, he simply greeted them and then left.


    "Yuyu, do you dislike him?"


    "Not exactly. It¡¯s just that he feels familiar to me, though I can¡¯t recall where I¡¯ve met him. So I¡¯d rather keep my distance." She didn¡¯t like associating with people like him.


    Hearing this, Feng Qinqin was also a bit surprised. "I see. In that case, I¡¯ll keep my distance, too. Your brother was really upset about him earlier, saying it caused friction between the two of us."


    Ji Yu felt a little guilty at this remark. "Maybe it¡¯s just the way people feel around a love rival, I guess."


    "Is that so?" Feng Qinqin didn¡¯t press further, and the matter was momentarily set aside.


    But Ji Yu still couldn¡¯t shake her unease about Li Yu.


    "Uncle Zhang, could you send me to Chongxin Hospital?"


    She wanted to find out if Li Yu was one of her former patients.


    "Alright."


    At this hour, only the staff on duty were still at Chongxin. Seeing Ji Yu arrive, they were a bit surprised. "Sister Yu, why are you here?"


    "I¡¯m looking for a patient¡¯s records." She wanted to figure out exactly who Li Yu was.


    The young nurse didn¡¯t ask many questions and quickly opened the door for Ji Yu.


    Ji Yu carefully searched through the files and actually found Li Yu¡¯s records.


    When she saw that he¡¯d previously been treated for knife wounds, Ji Yu¡¯s uneasiness peaked.


    "Something¡¯s wrong."


    There was definitely something off about this.


    She couldn¡¯t stop worrying about Feng Qinqin¡¯s safety.


    So she quickly called Ji Yuanzhou.


    Ji Yuanzhou was a bit taken aback, hearing the panic in her voice.


    "Yu, has something happened?"


    "Brother, is Qinqin with you?" She desperately hoped Feng Qinqin was still nearby.


    "I didn¡¯t go see Qinqin today. There were some matters at the office, so I couldn¡¯t make it. Why? What¡¯s wrong?" Now he, too, was beginning to feel uneasy.


    "You need to find her immediately. I think something¡¯s happened to Qinqin."


    Her calls to Feng Qinqin were already going unanswered.


    She couldn¡¯t exin why, but she had a terrible feeling about this.


    When she rushed back, Feng Qinqin was already gone.


    She checked with the Feng family as well, but nobody was there.


    "Something must have happened to Qinqin." She should¡¯ve known better¡ªthat man was clearly a problem.


    Just then, Gu Qixiao, hearing that Ji Yu hadn¡¯t returned home, came rushing over. Upon seeing her expression, he asked, "Yu, what¡¯s wrong? Did something happen?"


    "Qinqin is missing." Her eyes were slightly red, though she forced herself to stayposed. She knew they had to handle Feng Qinqin¡¯s disappearance as quickly as possible.


    "I should¡¯ve known something was wrong with that man, but I didn¡¯t react in time. I don¡¯t know what I was even thinking back then..."


    She was riddled with regret and me for herself.


    Gu Qixiao couldn¡¯t bear to see her like this and gently guided her into the car.


    "I¡¯ll organize a search right now. Don¡¯t worry. Just tell me¡ªwho kidnapped Feng Qinqin?"


    "A patient I treated once." At the time, Ji Yu had still been a rookie. He¡¯d been one of her most severe cases.


    As she recounted this, she remembered how there had been several menacing individuals around him at the time. But since they hadn¡¯t caused trouble, Ji Yu hadn¡¯t thought much more about it.


    Now, however, her best friend was entangled with such a person.


    "I¡¯ve already got people looking. Don¡¯t stress yourself out, okay? Remember, you still have the baby." He hoped that bringing up the child would help calm her down.


    But Ji Yu was consumed by guilt, knowing she bore responsibility for this.


    When she first sensed something was off, she should never have let Feng Qinqin leave alone.


    "I can¡¯t forgive the decision I made back then. Why didn¡¯t I take Qinqin home myself? How could it be such a coincidence for that man to show up at the same restaurant?"


    This had to have been premeditated.


    "Yu, no matter what, I¡¯ll help you find Feng Qinqin. Don¡¯t worry, please. It pains me to see you like this." Watching Ji Yu trembling all over made Gu Qixiao feel deeply distressed as well.


    It was rare for Ji Yu to show this kind of vulnerability¡ªtoday, she seemed especially fragile.


    But even so, Gu Qixiao felt powerless to help.


    Although he had already sent out people to search, it would still take some time.


    Suddenly, Ji Yu seemed to think of something. She quickly pulled out her phone and dialed a number.


    "Hong, I need you to locate Qinqin for me. She¡¯s been taken by someone."

 Chapter 188 Relatives

    <h4>Chapter 188: Chapter 188 Rtives</h4>


    Actually, after all these years, Ji Yu had alreadye to think of Feng Qinqin as a kind of family in another sense, so encountering such a situation was understandably hard for her.


    "I will definitely solve the matter with Qinqin," she said firmly.


    Gu Qixiao understood her worries and could only try tofort her while staying by her side.


    On Hong¡¯s end, the search was still ongoing.


    It was evident that these people had nned this well in advance, so even now, there were no significant leads.


    There was only a small segment of surveince footage showing that Feng Qinqin had been taken by Li Yu.


    Li Yu seemed to know they would find this footage and even said something to the camera.


    The others couldn¡¯t interpret it, but Ji Yu understood.


    "He¡¯s looking for me," she said with absolute certainty.


    But why was he targeting her?


    And what did Feng Qinqin have to do with all of this?


    "Yu, since this person knows you, he must be very familiar with those around you. He¡¯s likely prepared for everything, so finding her is going to be extremely difficult."


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t know what she should do, she only knew the current situation was far too overwhelming to stay calm.


    "Why..." Ji Yu felt her mind spinning with confusion.


    Seeing her condition deteriorate, Gu Qixiao grew increasingly uneasy. "Yu, take a proper rest. Leave this to me, alright?"


    Even though Ji Yu wanted to stay determined, her eyelids grew heavier and heavier. She was naturally prone to drowsiness, and having been tense for so long, she couldn¡¯t hold on any longer.


    Watching Ji Yu finally fall asleep, Gu Qixiao rose from his seat.


    "Have they found her yet?"


    "Not yet. Based on earlier clues, they¡¯ve probably hidden well. They have their own stronghold." It was clear finding them would be a challenge.


    Gu Qixiao¡¯s expression turned colder. He knew that if Ji Yu failed to find Feng Qinqin, she would carry the guilt for a lifetime. "Keep searching. Report any new leads immediately."


    He didn¡¯t sit idle either and got in touch with Hong.


    Hong wasn¡¯t particrly familiar with him or his affairs.


    "What makes you think I¡¯d believe anything you say?" Although Hong knew that Ji Yu loved Gu Qixiao, he still didn¡¯t want to deal with him.


    "If we work together, we can find Feng Qinqin faster. Or do you really want to watch Yu continue to suffer like this?"


    Hong, understanding how much Ji Yu cared about Feng Qinqin, grew anxious. "What do you mean?"


    "Your skillsbined with my personnel will speed things up. We¡¯re all doing this for Yu¡¯s sake. Why draw lines between us?"


    After a moment of silence, Hong deliberated over the feasibility of the idea. Thinking about Ji Yu¡¯s attitude toward the matter, he finally nodded in agreement.


    "Alright, I get it." There was no way he could just stand by and watch Ji Yu suffer like this.


    "Take good care of Sister Yu. This situation with Feng Qinqin is critical for her, and her emotions will be fragile."


    "I don¡¯t need you to tell me that." Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t hold any fondness for Hong either. Their cooperation was purely utilitarian.


    Worried about Ji Yu¡¯s condition, Gu Qixiao stayed by her side the entire time.


    Watching Ji Yu sleep fitfully, even frowning in her sleep, he couldn¡¯t help but feel a pang of sadness. "Yu, I¡¯ll always be here for you. We¡¯ll find Feng Qinqin soon. Don¡¯t despair."


    None of this was Ji Yu¡¯s fault, and this was why he was so concerned about her.


    The next day, Ji Yu woke up startled from a nightmare, staring at her surroundings with a sudden sense of disorientation.


    "Did they find her?"


    "There¡¯s still no news for now, but I don¡¯t think he¡¯ll necessarily harm Feng Qinqin." From start to finish, he couldn¡¯t understand why this person was acting this way.


    In truth, even Feng Qinqin felt perplexed.


    "Why are you holding me captive?"


    "Oh, it¡¯s nothing. I just wanted to see why my fianc¨¦e would abandon our engagement. You do realize that breaking off an engagement with someone like mees at a cost, don¡¯t you?" He smiled at Feng Qinqin.


    Though his demeanor was unchanged from before, Fang Qingqing found him eerily terrifying, as if he were an entirely different person.


    "No wonder Yuyu said there was something wrong with you. You really are no good."


    "Being ¡¯good¡¯ or ¡¯bad¡¯ is subjective. But I¡¯m certain Ji Yu remembers me to some degree. Such memories... how nostalgic." He had once believed that his face would never recover. Thinking about it now, it felt like some kind of twisted serendipity.


    "Don¡¯t worry, I won¡¯t kill you. Since you¡¯re a friend of Doctor Ji¡¯s, I¡¯ll at least spare your life."


    He simply couldn¡¯t bear being discarded without cause.


    It was the thing he loathed the most.


    So, until Ji Yuanzhou arrived, he wouldn¡¯t do anything rash.


    Realizing things had escted into something unpredictable, Feng Qinqin became aware that his target was Ji Yuanzhou.


    "This has nothing to do with Ji Yuanzhou. It was my decision not to be with you. I¡¯m sorry."


    She hadn¡¯t expected the aftermath to be thisplicated.


    "Don¡¯t worry, I won¡¯t do anything to Ji Yuanzhou. I just want to see how deep your feelings for each other run."


    He gave a cold snort, clearly irked by the entire ordeal.


    Meanwhile, Ji Yuanzhou was indeed on his way to the destination.


    But he wasn¡¯t foolish; though heading there alone, he had prepared contingencies.


    He sent a message to Ji Yu before departing for the factory.


    Ji Yu¡¯s anxiety spiked upon seeing the message. "They¡¯ve even contacted my brother. It¡¯s likely they¡¯re angry about the broken engagement. What should we do?"


    Unwilling to remain idle, she stood up, determined to investigate firsthand.


    Gu Qixiao was left exasperated by her sudden decision. "Yu, you¡¯re pregnant. Let me handle this."


    "No, you don¡¯t know him like I do. I once helped him. Out of respect for me, he won¡¯t kill my brother."


    She had to intervene and figure out the situation herself.


    Gu Qixiao had no choice but to apany her.


    The entire way, his main concern was Ji Yu¡¯s physical condition.


    "I¡¯m not as fragile as you think. Yes, I¡¯m pregnant, but that doesn¡¯t mean I have to stay home and do nothing."


    She was still capable of many things.


    Besides, the matter with Feng Qinqin weighed heavily on her, filling her with guilt. She only wanted to resolve it as best as she could.


    Seeing her resolve, Gu Qixiao knew he couldn¡¯t dissuade her. "Yu, no matter what happenster, don¡¯t act impulsively. I¡¯ll protect you."


    "Mm." Ji Yu responded absentmindedly. Whether she truly agreed or was just brushing him off was anyone¡¯s guess.


    Regardless, Gu Qixiao had prepared for every possible scenario. Ji Yu was the most important person in his life, more important than anyone else.


    So if a moment came where he had to make a choice, he wouldn¡¯t hesitate to take Ji Yu away.

 Chapter 189 Protection

    <h4>Chapter 189: Chapter 189 Protection</h4>


    Ji Yu had no idea what was about to happen next, and her mind was in turmoil.


    When she finally saw Li Yu and Feng Qinqin, she started to suspect that someone had been orchestrating this situation from the very beginning.


    "Doctor Ji, long time no see." Indeed, it had been quite a while since theyst met.


    "Long time no see." Ji Yu stepped forward, intending to release Feng Qinqin.


    But Li Yu stopped her in her tracks.


    "I believe Doctor Ji would be more interested in checking on your brother¡¯s condition."


    Ji Yuanzhou was tied up not far away.


    Judging by his appearance, he must have just been through a fierce struggle.


    Ji Yuanzhou was in bad shape.


    "Save Qinqin first." He didn¡¯t care about his own condition, only hoping that Feng Qinqin would be rescued quickly.


    Feng Qinqin¡¯s situation was terrible, having been in difort for some time. This ordeal had worsened her condition.


    "I don¡¯t need..." Her face was pale, tears glimmering in her eyes.


    "Why did youe to save me? Things are already like this¡ªdon¡¯t risk yourselves anymore. Are you trying to put me in a difficult position now?" She didn¡¯t want to implicate anyone.


    The current situation was unbearable, and she wasn¡¯t sure how to resolve the grievances involved.


    "I don¡¯t care why you captured me. Right now, I just want to make one thing clear¡ªdo whatever you want to me, but don¡¯t involve my friends."


    Indeed, what had happened was her fault.


    She hadn¡¯t anticipated such an ident at the beginning.


    "I¡¯m sorry to you, but they haven¡¯t done anything wrong."


    Li Yu let out a sneer. "Do you think I don¡¯t know what happened?"


    Initially, he hadn¡¯t intended to pursue the matter further.


    But since the conversation had reached this point, it was better to address everything openly.


    "I don¡¯t know why you¡¯re doing this, but since we¡¯re all here now, let¡¯s rify everything. Whateverpensation you want, we can give it to you."


    Ji Yu needed to understand that insisting further would only make things worse.


    What needed to be done next was to quell his anger.


    "Doctor Ji, I hope you won¡¯t interfere in this matter. After all, I haven¡¯t forgotten how you helped me before."


    There was a deep connection between them.


    The past they shared was out in the open, making it impossible for him to forget.


    "If you remember my help, then please let them go. I don¡¯t want anything to happen to my friends."


    The reason she stood here today was to appeal to his sense of owing her.


    Clearing things up was better than anything else.


    Hearing Ji Yu¡¯s words didn¡¯t surprise him. "Alright, I¡¯ll agree to that, but you have to promise me one thing."


    "Tell me¡ªif it¡¯s within my ability, I¡¯ll do it."


    Her top priority was to rescue the two of them first.


    "I need you to perform a surgery for me. During this time, you must cut off all contact with the outside world."


    Performing surgery was simple for her, but being isted from the world was asking too much.


    "What kind of surgery requires such istion? At the very least, you should make the procedure clear¡ªis it something I can even do?"


    She was cautious about such matters.


    "Since I sought you out, it proves you can do it."


    Clearly, everything had been nned carefully ahead of time.


    "If you wanted my help, you could¡¯ve approached me directly. Why resort to threats?"


    She despised threats above all else.


    The direction this was taking disgusted her profoundly.


    "I¡¯m only asking you for help¡ªbut knowing you¡¯re principled, I knew you¡¯d only agree under certain circumstances."


    Using this method was just thest option.


    Even if she refused, he wouldn¡¯t actually harm the two of them.


    After all, they had to meet again in the future, and seek Ji Yu¡¯s assistance.


    "I feel like you¡¯re calcting against me. Could it be true?"


    "Not quite calcting. But haven¡¯t you noticed how unnaturally things have unfolded for you?" The information he had read online was urate.


    "The more famous you are, the more trouble finds you. This is simply the consequence of your reputation."


    Not many people could perform such a surgery.


    Ji Yu was exceptional among those few.


    "With your expertise, you should use it for matters like these."


    Since Ji Yu had gotten pregnant, she rarely agreed to take on such cases.


    "Although I don¡¯t know what exactly you want me to do, I¡¯ll agree."


    Saving lives was her priority.


    Gu Qixiao grew uneasy, worried the situation might harm her.


    "Yu, you¡¯re still carrying a child¡ªthis could easily lead to unforeseen dangers."


    Moreover, this man had yet to rify his intentions, suggesting some degree of risk.


    "Don¡¯t worry. I won¡¯t harm Doctor Ji. In fact, we might even have multiple coborations in the future."


    To establish a long-term partnership, one had to prepare thoroughly for situations like this.


    "Mr. Gu, isn¡¯t it? We¡¯ve met before¡ªit¡¯s just that you might not remember me."


    He was well-acquainted with everyone present, which allowed him to craft such a meticulous n.


    Ji Yu couldn¡¯t understand why something so serious wouldpel him toward such extreme measures.


    "Since I¡¯ve already agreed to help, shouldn¡¯t you release them now?"


    He signaled to his associates.


    Soon, the two were released onto the ground.


    Ji Yuanzhou immediately checked Feng Qinqin¡¯s condition.


    Luckily, neither of them had sustained severe injuries.


    They just looked disheveled.


    Ji Yu¡¯s stance was clear¡ªas long as he released her friends, everything else would be negotiable.


    "This isn¡¯t the ce for a proper conversation. Why don¡¯t we head to my base for a thorough discussion?"


    He issued a direct invitation to Ji Yu.


    "No way." Gu Qixiao was uneasy. He sensed something ominous might ur, and nothing had gone ording to their n so far.


    They¡¯d previously agreed on how to handle this situation, but everything had been disrupted.


    "Mr. Gu, rest assured¡ªI¡¯ll ensure her safe return."


    He wasn¡¯t surprised by the objections, but ultimately, the key to this mattery between him and Ji Yu.


    Since Ji Yu had agreed, she wouldn¡¯t go back on her word.

 Chapter 190: Discussing

    <h4>Chapter 190: Chapter 190: Discussing</h4>


    Especially since they¡¯re still inside this abandoned warehouse, if they back out, they¡¯ll likely be caught right away.


    They all understand how serious this matter is.


    "You should go back first, I¡¯m just going to take a look with him."


    She has great confidence in her skills, so she¡¯s not afraid of being threatened.


    "Mr. Gu, if you want toe along, you can, but if anything unexpected happens, we won¡¯t look after you."


    When he said this, there was obviously a sense of threat in his tone.


    Gu Qixiao snorted coldly, just about to say something when Ji Yu interrupted him.


    "Don¡¯te with me, what you need to do now is help me ensure their safety."


    There are two injured people here.


    There¡¯s definitely no big problem if she goes this time.


    As long as they need her skills, they must treat her kindly.


    "Gu Qixiao, don¡¯t make it difficult for me."


    Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t know how to describe his current feelings.


    He couldn¡¯t just watch the person he likes being taken away like this.


    "Yu..."


    "Don¡¯t say anything more. You go back first, I¡¯ll return soon, nothing unexpected will happen," Ji Yu said confidently.


    The uing events might hurt him.


    So this matter must be resolved first.


    "I¡¯ll wait for you toe home." In the end, he said nothing else.


    He knows very well that continuing to argue will only waste time, it¡¯s better to go back and settle the two of them first.


    He watched their departing figures with a troubled heart.


    Ji Yuanzhou also understood that this matter was caused by him, so he felt very guilty now.


    "I¡¯m sorry, I didn¡¯t expect it to be this way." He regretted it deeply in his heart.


    "There¡¯s no need to apologize to me, you should apologize to Yu."


    Gu Qixiao knows very well that Ji Yu would never abandon those two.


    Both of them are very important people to Ji Yu.


    "Let¡¯s talk about this after we go back." Continuing like this will only waste time.


    When they went back, they didn¡¯t forget to inform the family.


    Ji Yu went with Li Yu to their base.


    Seeing the dense crowd surrounding them, she understood that leaving here would require their permission.


    "Since you brought me here, you should exin what¡¯s going on, right? I¡¯m a decisive person, since I promised you, I won¡¯t back out."


    "Doctor Ji has always been straightforward, I understand your personality, that¡¯s why I wanted to cooperate with you this time." He handed over the documents in his hand to Ji Yu.


    "I just need you to make him look like this." From the beginning, he only trusted Ji Yu.


    Looking at the documents in her hand, Ji Yu realized they wanted to impersonate an illegitimate child of an ancient family.


    This is actually quite hical.


    "Do you really think this is the right thing to do?"


    "For us, there¡¯s no right or wrong, as long as something has value, it¡¯s right." He didn¡¯t think what they were doing was a big deal.


    From the start, this matter was destined to be handled in this way.


    Moreover, using such tactics might even make the person die happily.


    "There are pros and cons to everything, Doctor Ji, you won¡¯t understand this."


    He didn¡¯t require Ji Yu to think like them.


    All she needed to do was follow through with their n.


    "You promised to do what we asked."


    "I did say that, but I need to prepare. Come find me in three days," she said calmly.


    They also understood that such meticulous work required preparation, and they didn¡¯t intend to make things difficult for Ji Yu.


    "Thank you, Doctor Ji, I¡¯ll arrange for someone to take you back."


    The exchange between the two went smoothly, so she was quickly escorted back.


    Seeing her unscathed appearance, Gu Qixiao breathed a sigh of relief.


    "Yu, never make such impulsive decisions again, I¡¯m really afraid something will happen to you." Only heaven knows how worried he really was.


    "I know you¡¯re worried about me, but at that moment I had no other choice."


    It looked like they weren¡¯t being forced, but at that time she had no other decision to make.


    If she refused, they would probably have been left behind.


    Gu Qixiao understood this reasoning, so he nned to arrange people to deal with Li Yu.


    "Don¡¯t engage with him, these people all have hidden aces, they are in the dark, we are in the open, it¡¯s very dangerous."


    Their activities have never seen the light.


    "I understand." He couldn¡¯t just watch Ji Yu continue to be threatened.


    "What they want me to do isn¡¯t that difficult."


    It¡¯s just a test of her psychological strength.


    Evidently, this time it would take a significant toll on her.


    "I¡¯ll be fine, you don¡¯t need to worry so much, actually, the best solution to this is for me to do what they ask and resolve it."


    She had considered this before.


    Now there¡¯s nothing much to think about, just need to perform a surgery, which is essentially routine for her.


    "Yu, I don¡¯t want you to get harmed in any way."


    Whenever he thinks of Ji Yu being ordered around by these people, he can¡¯t help but worry.


    "Don¡¯t worry, if they want me to do something excessive, I won¡¯t agree."


    People are selfish, so she chooses to yield now.


    Upon checking Feng Qinqin and the others¡¯ condition, she found they weren¡¯t hurt, which relieved Ji Yu.


    "Luckily, you¡¯re alright, otherwise I would regret it for a lifetime."


    This matter was targeted at her from the start.


    "Yuyu, don¡¯t say that, if it weren¡¯t for the marriage contract between him and me, I wouldn¡¯t have courted trouble."


    Feng Qinqin felt she was too careless initially, treating the other person as a good guy, which led to subsequent events.


    "I didn¡¯t expect that he had such a background."


    It was indeed unbelievable to her.


    "From the start, he acted very gentlemanly, I thought he had a gentlemanly demeanor, so I didn¡¯t suspect he wanted to kidnap me."


    But now it seems, when he saw the two of them dining together, he had already thought of kidnapping her.


    "I me myself for not recognizing him earlier, if I had warned you sooner, none of this would have happened." Ji Yu was a little annoyed, as someone who was most sensitive to faces, how could she not recognize him?

 Chapter 191: A Sense of Familiarity

    <h4>Chapter 191: Chapter 191: A Sense of Familiarity</h4>


    "But this matter isn¡¯t important now. Since I¡¯ve already promised to help them, I absolutely won¡¯t go back on my word."


    They don¡¯t have that much leverage. If she reneges, it¡¯ll likely cause trouble down the line.


    "What you need to do now is to focus on recovering."


    As she spoke, she nced at Ji Yuanzhou. "Brother, I¡¯ll leave Qinqin in your care."


    She understood that both of them were grappling with a sense of guilt.


    But this was her own decision, and there was no need to dwell on it.


    "Yu, if there¡¯s anything you need, just tell the family. Mom and Dad would never give up on you."


    There¡¯s no need to worry about something like this.


    Ji Yu furrowed her brows, unsure what to say next.


    In the end, she could only sigh. "Brother, this matter isn¡¯t as serious as you think, and it¡¯s not closely tied to us."


    But perhaps that family will feel disappointed; the child they retrieve absolutely won¡¯t be their own biological one.


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t know much about that family and could only hope that when the time came, they¡¯d know right from wrong and not be captivated by such things.


    She carefully prepared everything as she had nned.


    The day before her departure, Gu Qixiao blocked Ji Yu¡¯s path.


    "Yu, whatever happens during this time, you can alwayse to me. And I absolutely won¡¯t give up on avenging them."


    Ji Yu felt helpless.


    "Don¡¯t you understand how dangerous this is? This matter really doesn¡¯t involve you that much."


    He was, without doubt, the most innocent party in this n.


    "I don¡¯t see it as dangerous at all. As long as it¡¯s something that can help you, it¡¯s not dangerous to me."


    But she couldn¡¯t allow him to do this.


    She¡¯d always believed knowingly walking toward danger was a grave error.


    "Don¡¯t let my issues influence your emotions."


    People should first tend to their own emotions before tending to others¡¯.


    "You¡¯ve already done enough."


    She could feel how much he had cared for her recently.


    She leaned lightly against his shoulder.


    "I know how much you worry about me, but since I¡¯ve promised you all that I won¡¯t get hurt, then I absolutely won¡¯t let anything happen."


    The bond between them wouldn¡¯t be affected because of this matter.


    "Don¡¯t keep thinking about how dangerous this is. It¡¯s actually more of an opportunity to transition."


    At the very least, they would have something to focus on going forward.


    Hearing these words, Gu Qixiao felt an inexplicable ache in his heart.


    After they parted ways, he headed straight to the old family home.


    Mr. Gu, having never seen his son so visibly troubled recently, couldn¡¯t help but wonder what was troubling him.


    "Have you encountered some sort of trouble? If you need help, just tell the family. It surely can be resolved."


    "It¡¯s not my trouble¡ªit¡¯s the person I like who¡¯s in trouble. Yet I don¡¯t know how to help her."


    He didn¡¯t shy away from admitting he liked someone.


    "You like someone? Since when? Why didn¡¯t I know about this?" Mr. Gu was visibly surprised.


    When arranging a marriage for him before, he¡¯d always been openly resistant. How had he suddenly developed feelings for someone?


    "I only came to realize my feelingster. But now she¡¯s under threat, and I can¡¯t seem to do anything to help."


    He spoke with palpable frustration.


    Usually, he dealt with situations calmly, as if nothing had urred.


    But matters concerning Ji Yu were different.


    "It seems like you and that youngdy are simply star-crossed," Mr. Gu remarked, recalling Ji Yu. When he had chosen Ji Yu back then, he thought they were a good match. Now, it seemed fate didn¡¯t align for them.


    "Since the person you like is being threatened, your only option is to eliminate the threat."


    To Mr. Gu, the solution was simple and direct.


    "But she doesn¡¯t want me interfering." From the beginning, Ji Yu had nned to bear the weight alone.


    He knew how independent she was. But in the face of such circumstances, his concern for her was unavoidable.


    "Dad, sometimes I question whether the feelings between us are genuine. If she really cares about me, why doesn¡¯t she rely on me?"


    If Ji Yu relied on him even a little, he wouldn¡¯t feel so conflicted.


    Mr. Gu found his son¡¯s question rather puzzling.


    "Do you seriously not know whether she likes you or not?"


    Feelings like that are inherently impossible to hide.


    "Besides, if the girl doesn¡¯t want to depend on you, maybe she¡¯s afraid you¡¯ll abandon herter. You probably haven¡¯t done enough to give her that sense of security."


    Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t expect his father toe up with such an analysis.


    He fell into a momentary silence.


    "So should I handle this matter now or not?"


    "That depends on your heart." The heart never lies.


    Sometimes, intuition can be remarkably urate.


    Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t continue the conversation and instead went upstairs to rest.


    The next day, he personally drove Ji Yu to the base.


    This time, he didn¡¯t hesitate. "Yu, I¡¯ll support you in doing whatever you want to do, but you must promise me you¡¯ll protect yourself."


    He knew that these matters required Ji Yu to be extra cautious.


    Ji Yu smiled lightly. "Come closer."


    Gu Qixiao leaned in obediently.


    Before he could react, Ji Yu softly ced a kiss at the corner of his lips. "Don¡¯t worry. Nothing¡¯s going to happen to me."


    This was the first time the two had shared such an intimate moment.


    Gu Qixiao froze in ce.


    By the time he recovered, she had already walked away.


    His lips curved upward involuntarily. This unexpected moment filled him with satisfaction.


    Recently, his bad mood seemed to dissolve because of that kiss.


    Ji Yu understood his feelings, and this was her way offorting him.


    Li Yu had been observing all of this unfold.


    He seemed surprised by Ji Yu¡¯s fondness for someone like Gu Qixiao.


    "I really didn¡¯t expect you¡¯d like someone like him."


    "Why shouldn¡¯t I like him?" There was no rule against it.


    Besides, how could liking someone ever be controlled?


    She¡¯d evaded the truth for so long but ultimately chose to be with him.


    Their bond had already be inseparable.


    "I just figured someone with your personality wouldn¡¯t like someone like him."


    "Then you probably don¡¯t understand me very well." Ji Yu replied indifferently.

 Chapter 192: Plastic Surgery

    <h4>Chapter 192: Chapter 192: stic Surgery</h4>


    But Ji Yu couldn¡¯t be bothered to talk to him again.


    She simply followed their suggestion and transformed the previously prepared person into apletely different appearance.


    Looking at the face in front of her, Ji Yu felt a wave of annoyance.


    "With skills like yours, Doctor Ji, you could do anything. Why stick to running a hospital so obediently?"


    It was obvious he was trying to rope Ji Yu into his ns.


    But this matter greatly concerned Ji Yu.


    "Do you think I need that?" She had a career she loved, family she cared for, and now, someone she liked. How could she possibly care about something like this?


    "I must¡¯ve overthought it." He suddenly felt a hint of envy toward Ji Yu. It was like when they first met¡ªhe couldn¡¯t fathom how such a young woman could appear so cold and detached when wielding a scalpel.


    "Ji Yu, you really need to..."


    "I don¡¯t need to." These people had no idea what she had been through. Was there any point in saying this now?


    "You don¡¯t know other people¡¯s pasts, so why say such nonsensical things? You don¡¯t like me, and I don¡¯t like you. Let¡¯s justplete this one coboration, and after that, we owe each other nothing."


    Neither of them would lose money in this arrangement.


    Hearing this, Li Yu couldn¡¯t help butugh, "I really am a fool, thinking I could talk to you about working together in the long term."


    But then again, there didn¡¯t seem to be any issues anymore.


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t like this ce and didn¡¯t want to associate with these people.


    No matter what happened in the future, she resolved not to help them again.


    "Do you think this is wrong?" He seemed to catch onto Ji Yu¡¯s thoughts.


    "Conning people and expecting me to approve? I¡¯m not brain-dead." This matter didn¡¯t warrant further discussion.


    She sat off to the side, her demeanor indifferent.


    Of course, she was also wondering if there would be any other issuester.


    "Don¡¯t worry, Doctor Ji. I¡¯m a man of my word. There will be absolutely no additional conditions. Naturally, I also hope you won¡¯t share this matter with others afterward."


    "I have zero interest in your business." She rubbed her temples, as if she had long since seen through their tricks.


    "Ji Yu, you know, you could try staying with me." He tilted his chin slightly with a cheeky air, mulling over the possibility of furthering his rtionship with her.


    Ji Yu swatted his hand away. "I¡¯m not interested in you."


    Their rtionship hadn¡¯t reached that kind of level.


    Hearing this, his expression seemed a bit disheartened.


    "Actually, I¡¯ve always been very interested in you, Doctor Ji. From the very beginning, I found you fascinating." Except back then, Ji Yu was just a young girl.


    He could even imagine the two of them working together, aplishing quite a lot.


    "Well, thank you very much." Even so, she couldn¡¯t bring herself to be the slightest bit moved by someone like him.


    "Can I go back now?" She had no interest in what these people were doing.


    Hearing this, Li Yu showed no intent of making it difficult for her. "You still need to wait until the gauze is removed from his face. Otherwise, who knows if Doctor Ji¡¯s surgery was sessful or not?"


    "Are you joking with me?" She found this situation absurd beyond belief.


    The rtionship between them was already bad enough.


    Staying here for another month might just drive her insane.


    "I cane back when it¡¯s time to remove the gauze, or you could send him to Chongxin directly. That way, I could take care of him properly."


    When they heard this, several people¡¯s expressions shifted. "Sending him to Chongxin would make it too easy for others to find out, so don¡¯t even think about it."


    He wouldn¡¯t allow his people to go to Chongxin.


    Such a thing was far too easy to uncover.


    "So you¡¯re willing to sacrifice my time instead?"


    This was simplyughable.


    "I only hope Doctor Ji keeps her word. Does Doctor Ji not have any thoughts on this matter?"


    "I do as I please. I¡¯ve already fulfilled the promise I made to you. If you don¡¯t let me go, things won¡¯t end so simply." She knew trouble would inevitably find her sooner orter anyway.


    Hearing this, Li Yu didn¡¯t get angry. "I know Mr. Gu has the means, but making a big fuss over something so trivial seems a bit excessive. Besides, Miss Ji, granting me this favor isn¡¯t exactly difficult, is it?"


    "You¡¯re right," she replied, unwilling to yield, "But unfortunately, there¡¯s one thing I absolutely cannot stand¡ªbeing threatened."


    If they dared to use threats against her, it meant they had prepared for this from the outset.


    "I wouldn¡¯t call this a threat. I¡¯m merely having a discussion with Doctor Ji. There¡¯s no need to get angry, especially when you¡¯re carrying a child¡ªyou really should think about the child¡¯s well-being."


    Though his words weren¡¯t direct, they were unmistakablyced with menace.


    Ji Yu stared at him coldly. "So, what you¡¯re saying is that there¡¯s no peaceful resolution to this matter, is that it?"


    "Doctor Ji, you must be joking. How could there not be a peaceful resolution? I just need you to stay here for a while. Rest assured, as soon as his face is fine, you¡¯re free to leave at any time."


    This time, Ji Yu didn¡¯t say anything further.


    She returned to the room they had prepared for her without any argument.


    Li Yu was somewhat surprised by herpliance and couldn¡¯t help but wonder what she was nning.


    "Doctor Ji, you seem to..."


    "I¡¯m already staying here. What more do you want to say?" There was no need for further conversation between them.


    Ji Yu disliked engaging with him.


    He felt foolish pursuing the matter any further but remained uneasy, suspecting that Ji Yu might be plotting something, potentially even exposing the entire operation.


    Yet, over the following week, Ji Yu behaved entirely normal. She went about her tasks, asionally took walks to enjoy the scenery, and showed no signs of acting against them.


    Meanwhile, Gu Qixiao had already received word and was aware of Ji Yu¡¯s temporary absence.


    "Do you think something¡¯s happened to Yuyu?" Feng Qinqin, feeling guilty as the situation stemmed from her, was particrly worried about Ji Yu¡¯s condition.


    "For now, there doesn¡¯t seem to be an issue. She sent a message back saying there¡¯s no need to worry." These updates, of course, were only ryed through Hong.


    Since their prior coboration, the rtionship between the two had eased somewhat. Given Ji Yu¡¯s tendency to get into trouble, they had no choice but to work together.


    "I can¡¯t shake this uneasy feeling. I don¡¯t know what¡¯s going on with Yuyu. If I¡¯d known this would happen, I never would¡¯ve mentioned the engagement in the first ce."


    The engagement between them had long since been called off, yet the aftermath still hadn¡¯t been resolved.


    "Maybe I should go and check on her."

 Chapter 193: Unexpected Accident

    <h4>Chapter 193: Chapter 193: Unexpected ident</h4>


    She wasn¡¯tfortable with Ji Yu continuing to live here.


    "I understand. This matter doesn¡¯t need your interference." His tone wasn¡¯t threatening, but he clearly found them obstructive.


    He could use other means topletely resolve the situation.


    But Feng Qinqin still harbored doubts about him. Even though it seemed like the two of them had been together recently, she hadn¡¯t forgotten the things Gu Qixiao had done before.


    "You may not trust me, but I¡¯ve never hidden my feelings for Ji Yu." He had said before that he would never give up on Ji Yu.


    "You..."


    "I deliver on what I say." Seeing Gu Qixiao¡¯s expression, Feng Qinqin suddenly found herself at a loss for words. She really shouldn¡¯t have doubted their rtionship.


    At least for now, theirpatibility seemed undeniable.


    Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t bother to intervene further in her affairs but instructed Ji Yuanzhou to take care of her.


    Otherwise, when Ji Yu returned and found out that something had happened to Feng Qinqin, she likely wouldn¡¯t be able to rest easy.


    He returned to his residence, reflecting on everything that had happened recently, unable to calm his troubled thoughts.


    "President Gu, about tomorrow¡¯s meeting..."


    "Schedule it on time. Don¡¯t mention anything about what¡¯s been going on recently." He wouldn¡¯t forget the need to handlepany matters, but Ji Yu¡¯s safety was a priority.


    "ording to your arrangements, Miss Ji will be fine. However, when we received the news today, Miss Song seemed to have overheard something."


    He was aware of Song Xuan¡¯s feelings for Gu Qixiao and found it necessary to report this matter thoroughly.


    Gu Qixiao frowned, clearly displeased. "What happened?"


    "Miss Song wanted to find you at the time and ended up overhearing the news." He had noticed something was amiss back then, but due to other pressing matters, he hadn¡¯t had the chance to report it.


    "Make sure she behaves herself. Have someone follow her." This matter couldn¡¯t be exposed to others.


    Assistant Li wasn¡¯t surprised and responded, "I¡¯ve already arranged for someone to follow Miss Song."


    Gu Qixiao still felt uneasy, considering Ji Yu¡¯s dangerous situation. If the information got out, Ji Yu would inevitably be captured by them.


    After much thought, he decided he needed to personally speak to Song Xuan about the matter.


    Meanwhile, Song Xuan was feeling restless. She never thought she¡¯d encounter such a predicament. But since Ji Yu was in such serious trouble, she couldn¡¯t be med for her cold-heartedness.


    "Ji Yu, you can¡¯t me me. It wasn¡¯t my fault your situation turned out like this..."


    She clearly understood the circumstances.


    As long as Ji Yu died, she could have Gu Qixiao all to herself forever.


    Just the thought of this gave her peace of mind.


    "What are you doing?" Gu Qixiao appeared suddenly, watching Song Xuan whispering to herself in a sneaky manner, instinctively trying to gauge her expression.


    Startled by his unexpected presence, Song Xuan stammered, "Xiao, why are you here?"


    "You know about Yu¡¯s situation." He spoke in a matter-of-fact tone, making it clear he already knew.


    Unwilling to admit it, she tried to deny, "Xiao, you must be misunderstanding something. I don¡¯t know anything. Did you reallye back just to talk about this?"


    All she wanted was for Gu Qixiao to leave as soon as possible.


    Speaking about these matters only made her uneasy.


    She still had unfinished business with Ji Yu.


    Gu Qixiao snorted coldly, "Song Xuan, I¡¯ve warned you many times not to target Yu. Before doing anything, have you considered your current position? If something happens to her, do you really think you¡¯ll be safe?"


    He had never let anyone off who had harmed Ji Yu.


    Upon hearing this, her expression changed slightly, evidently caught off guard by his words.


    "I didn¡¯t mean that, Xiao. You misunderstood. I really don¡¯t know anything about this."


    She tried to appear aggrieved, looking pitifully at Gu Qixiao, hoping he would drop the subject.


    But Gu Qixiao wasn¡¯t the type to fall for her act. "Song Xuan, we¡¯ve known each other for so long. Do you think I wouldn¡¯t see through your intentions?"


    He knew her personality well enough to understand there was something suspicious going on.


    Seeing there was no way out, Song Xuan reluctantly said, "Xiao, you¡¯ve already put me under surveince. What more do you want? Do you think I¡¯d share this information with anyone else?"


    Her expression was tinged with bitterness, as though she were being unjustly used.


    But Gu Qixiao wasn¡¯t buying it. "You¡¯d better not."


    He wasn¡¯t about to let anyone who targeted Ji Yu walk free.


    Watching his fierce expression, Song Xuan¡¯s heart burned with jealousy, hardening her resolve to act against Ji Yu.


    As long as Ji Yu remained alive, she would never have Gu Qixiao in this lifetime.


    This was her only opportunity.


    The situation had grownplicated.


    But Gu Qixiao still felt something wasn¡¯t quite right. "Stay here and rest for now. Don¡¯t concern yourself with anything else."


    He had other matters to attend to and naturally wouldn¡¯t stay long.


    After he left, Song Xuan opened the door and peeked out. As expected, someone was stationed at the door. They greeted her politely upon seeing her. "Miss Song, please rest well at home during this time. Let us know if you need anything."


    While polite, their demeanor clearly showed no intention of letting her go.


    Song Xuan could easily understand the subtext.


    "You don¡¯t have to worry about me. I¡¯ll stay here obediently."


    She was anxious to spread the news but found the situationpletely different from what she had anticipated.


    Meanwhile, Ji Yu hadrgely managed to pass on her updates here.


    Every time Li Yu looked at her, his gaze was full of suspicion. But Ji Yu¡¯s mental fortitude was strong.


    "Looking at me like that¡ªare you suspecting me of pulling any tricks behind your back? If you don¡¯t even trust me, why won¡¯t you let me leave?"


    "Doctor Ji, you¡¯re overthinking. How could I possibly suspect you? It¡¯s just that recently, Doctor Ji seems particrly quiet. Don¡¯t you want to step outside, soak in some sunlight, or take a walk?"


    His words didn¡¯t address his actual concerns outright.


    But Ji Yu¡¯s behavior indeed made him wary.


    "I don¡¯t understand what you mean."


    She looked at him calmly, knowing his words contained underlying implications.


    "Doctor Ji, how could you not understand? I¡¯m merely concerned about you and your child. Even if you don¡¯t care about yourself, you should at least consider the child in your womb."


    His words carried a veiled threat.


    Ji Yu knew they didn¡¯t have concrete information in their hands; otherwise, things wouldn¡¯t have unfolded this way.


    "I¡¯ll protect my child. I don¡¯t need your concern. What you should worry about is your n."

 Chapter 194: Impersonation

    <h4>Chapter 194: Chapter 194: Impersonation</h4>


    This kind of identity would require considerable effort to fake.


    He had been instructing his subordinates to study it.


    Unfortunately, so far, they hadn¡¯t made any headway.


    "This matter is very important, but so is Doctor Ji¡¯s situation." He couldn¡¯t feel at ease knowing Ji Yu was on her own here.


    Ji Yu knew that remaining like this would easily arouse suspicion, so she simply contacted Gu Qixiao, instructing him to show some signs of being anxious and, preferably, toe to look for her as soon as possible.


    This might dispel the doubts lingering in their minds.


    Gu Qixiao was indeed worried when he got the news and naturally followed Ji Yu¡¯s suggestions.


    Sure enough, when Li Yu saw Gu Qixiaoing to demand her return, his demeanor visibly rxed. "Mr. Gu, what you¡¯re suggesting isn¡¯t likely to work for now. After all, only Doctor Ji possesses this level of skill."


    Li Yu appreciated Ji Yu¡¯s abilities, but unfortunately, they were not on the same path.


    He thought Ji Yu was excellent in every way, but sometimes absurdly stubborn, as if certain things simply couldn¡¯t be negotiated.


    "You previously said that once this matter is resolved, Yu could go back, but you¡¯ve gone back on your word." His cold gaze locked onto them, clearly displeased with the situation.


    "You can¡¯t me us for this; it¡¯s still because Doctor Ji¡¯s skills haven¡¯t reached the level where results can be expedited. We still need another month to wait."


    He knew Ji Yu was already doing her best, but some problems couldn¡¯t be solved with mere words.


    "I want to see Yu." He looked visibly uneasy about Ji Yu¡¯s situation, though his concern for her was also genuine.


    "Meeting her isn¡¯t possible for now. Doctor Ji should¡¯ve already told you that her task must be carried out with utmost confidentiality." He wasn¡¯t going to relent, mainly because the stakes of this operation were too high to risk exposure.


    This n of theirs was critical.


    "Then how do I know you haven¡¯t done something to Yu?" He feigned anger, but his worry appeared authentic.


    At this point, Li Yu no longer saw Ji Yu as a potential problem. "This is the agreement we made. Mr. Gu, you should follow the rules properly now. Making things difficult won¡¯t harm Doctor Ji, but let¡¯s avoid unnecessaryplications."


    They acted as if they were entirely innocent.


    To the uninformed, they might even seem like decent people.


    After going back and forth for a long time, Gu Qixiao finally decided to leave.


    Before departing, he didn¡¯t forget to warn Li Yu, "If anything happens to Yu, I won¡¯t let you off."


    His tone was icy, making it clear he didn¡¯t want Ji Yu to stay here.


    "Rest assured, I would feel personally ountable if anything happened to Doctor Ji. After all, she has helped me with many things in the past."


    Li Yu still held Ji Yu in high regard and hadn¡¯t forgotten their prior dealings.


    In hindsight, those events now seemed rather absurd.


    Hearing this, Gu Qixiao said nothing more and walked out of the base.


    Once in the car, he began considering whether he should rescue Ji Yu first before dealing with anything else. The people here were sinister, clearly up to no good. Prolonging negotiations with them would only waste time.


    Unfortunately, with no updates from Ji Yu, he could only wait for now.


    Meanwhile, Ji Yu was also deliberating whether to make a move. After all, the man in question was indeed trouble.


    As for Li Yu, he believed his n was wless. Even if Ji Yu wanted to cause disruptions, she¡¯d need the capability to pull it off.


    In the following days, every time Li Yu saw Ji Yu, he greeted her with a cheerful smile, leaving her suspicious that he might have been plotting something secretly.


    "If you have something to say, just say it. Why act so unsettlingly?"


    He was the type of person who could be described as a scheming wolf in sheep¡¯s clothing.


    No matter the situation, he always seemed to wear that same smiling face.


    Whaty in his heart, only he knew.


    "I just wanted to see you. Doctor Ji, you still recall the first time we met, don¡¯t you?"


    As he spoke, a hint of nostalgia seemed to surface.


    "Nothing worth remembering. I¡¯ve forgotten most of the details, and besides, you did pay me back then."


    She still had some vague recollections, though.


    "You¡¯re right. If you truly remembered, it wouldn¡¯t make sense that you didn¡¯t recognize me right away. But with you, it¡¯s different for me¡ªI remember you vividly."


    They¡¯d discussed this matter several times before.


    But Ji Yu had no real interest in revisiting those memories.


    "The reason you remember me must be because I operated on your face. But out of everyone I¡¯ve operated on, the list is too long for me to remember each one."


    Even this man likely left only a faint impression at best.


    His expression indicated he¡¯d easily picked up on Ji Yu¡¯s subtext.


    "You really are adorable." But this kind of "adorable" carried an unsettling undertone.


    "Ji Yu, you should seriously consider me. I don¡¯t care about your child¡¯s situation."


    Ji Yu raised her brows, unable to hold back her sarcasm. "You¡¯re really something. What, do you enjoy ying the fool for yourself now?" The absurdity of someone liking a situation like this was astonishing.


    "Others wouldn¡¯t qualify, but you do."


    He had unwavering confidence in Ji Yu¡¯spetence. Nobody else would even stand a chance.


    Ji Yu finally understood. From the beginning, he¡¯d been upfront about his goals, showing no intention of forming any emotional connection¡ªlikely only seeking to use her.


    "Your honesty is admirable." But their rapport was far from friendly.


    "I already have someone I want to be with for the rest of my life, and my child already has a father. Why would I follow whatever you say?" Their actions would inevitably be exposed sooner orter.


    While their values shed, Ji Yu¡¯s abilities were undeniably enticing.


    "Ji Yu, you haven¡¯t yet discovered the fun that¡¯s out there. Once you¡¯re with me, you¡¯ll realize there¡¯s so much more to this world than just romantic entanglements."


    There were plenty of things that could bring joy.


    It was very simple for him to experience that for himself.


    "By staying with me, you¡¯ll experience countless things you¡¯ve never encountered before. Isn¡¯t that enough for you?"


    Ji Yu frowned. "Sorry, I don¡¯t have such ns for now."


    For her, turning to the dark side would be effortless, but she simply had no interest.


    "I don¡¯t trust people so easily. The things you¡¯re saying all sound incredibly boring to me."


    To Ji Yu, these matters were trivial.


    Instead of feeling deterred, he looked at Ji Yu with remarkable patience. "I know what you¡¯re thinking. But there¡¯s no need to rush. Everyone has their own perspective on these things. I believe you¡¯ll understand me sooner orter."


    These matters were simply a matter of timing.


    Ji Yu had no intention of continuing the conversation with him.


    "Thanks for your kindness, but I¡¯d rather not continue this topic. You can leave now."

 Chapter 195 Extreme Disgust

    <h4>Chapter 195: Chapter 195 Extreme Disgust</h4>


    Ji Yu was clearly not very invested in this matter.


    But the uing events would likely require her to interact with these people for some time.


    Hermunication with Hong hadn¡¯t ceased, so Gu Qixiao felt somewhat reassured.


    However, his patience was wearing thin, and he wasn¡¯t sure how to act first in order to protect Ji Yu.


    Seeing that Gu Qixiao¡¯s state was bing increasingly off, Ji Yuanzhou also realized that he probably didn¡¯t yet know what to do next.


    "You¡¯d better wait. Yu definitely knows what¡¯s going on."


    "Too much time increases the risk of being discovered," he said, feeling deeply uneasy as he spoke.


    He understood that Ji Yu had likely endured significant grievances during this period.


    He was prepared to act ahead of schedule, based on their earlier n.


    Ji Yu also recognized that prolonged silence would only arouse suspicion, so she decided to directly inform Gu Qixiao of the current situation.


    "What are you doing?"


    "What¡¯s wrong with me sitting here?" she tried her best to appear calm, not wanting to reveal that she had sent out information from here.


    However, Li Yu had already been suspicious about this matter for some time. Seeing Ji Yu act this way only made him increasingly suspect she had prepared something beforehand.


    "Ji Yu, do you think I¡¯m going to let you take action against me? I was merely probing you, yet you really dared to disclose my information."


    His expression was harsh, clearly displeased with the matter.


    Ji Yu wasn¡¯t sure how this had been exposed, but judging from his demeanor, it seemed the situation wouldn¡¯t end peacefully.


    "When did you find out about this?"


    "You don¡¯t need to know that. All you need to understand is that I¡¯ve intercepted everything you sent." He hadn¡¯t initially intended to do anything to her, but given her actions, there was no way he¡¯d let it slide.


    "Did you think your moves were wless? In truth, I simply hadn¡¯t decided to act against you yet."


    Since the matter had been exposed, Ji Yu had no more to say.


    "I still can¡¯t bring myself to do something so hical. The n you fabricated would ensure that their family could never reunite." She couldn¡¯tprehend why they were resorting to such cruel measures.


    Clearly, they were willing to disregard everything for the sake of money.


    "Whatever I want to do isn¡¯t up to you."


    From the start, he had said Ji Yu didn¡¯t need to be involved, but since she had chosen to expose this matter, he certainly wouldn¡¯t stand by idly.


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t respond further, keeping herposure instead. "Actually, you should¡¯ve known all along¡ªI¡¯m not someone who will follow your ns obediently."


    Yet who exactly had leaked this information remained uncertain.


    "What you¡¯ve done is absolutely outrageous."


    "Outrageous? That family isn¡¯t worth much to begin with. Taking action against them is already giving them more respect than they deserve. What¡¯s with your attitude?" He couldn¡¯t help but chuckle, clearly baffled by Ji Yu¡¯s perspective.


    "I just did what I wanted to do." Ji Yu was curious¡ªwouldn¡¯t they regret losing money eventually?


    "Since you want to continue with this, don¡¯t expect me to show mercy. Our agreement will likely stretch on much longer, and as of now, you have no way to resist."


    This matter was difficult for either of them toprehend.


    Thus, the situation remained awkward and unresolved.


    For the moment, Ji Yu didn¡¯t know how to send out an update.


    But as long as she avoided contacting Gu Qixiao today, he¡¯d figure out what was happening sooner orter.


    Indeed, Gu Qixiao realized something had gone wrong with Ji Yu.


    After noticing her silence, he became more anxious than anyone.


    "What¡¯s going on with Yu? How could it take this long without any updates?" Something suspicious was undoubtedly at y.


    Hong was equally worried. "I also want to find clues quickly, but ourmunication is highly secure¡ªno one should¡¯ve been able to discover anything."


    Besides, they had all interacted with these people previously, so under normal circumstances, this shouldn¡¯t have happened.


    Hearing this, Gu Qixiao suddenly had a realization. He understood that someone must¡¯ve leaked their information¡ªand it was likely intentional.


    His first move was to ask the bodyguards guarding Song Xuan, but the results showed that she hadn¡¯t left her location during this period, eliminating her from suspicion.


    "Sister Yu¡¯s situation doesn¡¯t look good. Let¡¯s get her back first, then figure everything else out."


    His unease grew stronger.


    He couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that something bad might happen to Ji Yu.


    "Got it." They needed to n carefully.


    Given the current circumstances, there was little room for rash decisions. Ensuring Ji Yu¡¯s safety was the top priority before considering anything else.


    "I know Sister Yu wouldn¡¯t sit waiting for doom. Even if she gets caught, she¡¯d have a backup n. Let¡¯s check the surrounding areas for updates first."


    Since Ji Yu had helped them perform the surgery, that meant these people still nned to use her¡ªthey wouldn¡¯t release her so readily.


    "I have a bad feeling they¡¯re going to act soon." Gu Qixiao worried about their next move.


    But for now, he¡¯d test their attitude first.


    Li Yu wasn¡¯t surprised to see him arrive.


    "Honestly, I hadn¡¯t intended to drag you into this matter in the first ce." From the beginning, he had wanted Ji Yu to focus solely on performing the surgery.


    Now things had grownplex, and he couldn¡¯t understand what these people were thinking.


    "Don¡¯t think you can y nice with me. If you dare pull something like this, then you should be prepared to face the consequences." He stared coldly at Gu Qixiao, clearly unfazed by his threats.


    He should¡¯ve already known these things from the start.


    "Gu Qixiao, do you think your words hold any weight here?" From the very beginning, he had been at a disadvantage.


    Because his weakness was firmly in Li Yu¡¯s grasp.


    "The moment we met, I made my stance crystal clear¡ªit was you who broke the rules first." His anger over the disruption of his ns was palpable.


    Initially, everything had been proceeding smoothly, but now he had to deal with unnecessaryplications. It frustrated him deeply.


    "I don¡¯t care about the situation between you and Ji Yu, but if you¡¯re going to sabotage my business, I absolutely won¡¯t allow it."


    Gu Qixiao frowned. "What you had Yu do was absolutely intolerable." He understood why Ji Yu had resisted so strongly.


    From the beginning, this matter had been riddled with contradictions.


    "Look at yourselves acting all noble and virtuous¡ªbut have you never done anything shameful? Or are you here trying to redeem yourselves through me?"


    He sneered at their supposed righteousness.


    After all, true altruism didn¡¯t exist.

 Chapter 196: Sneer at

    <h4>Chapter 196: Chapter 196: Sneer at</h4>


    "Just because you haven¡¯t seen it doesn¡¯t mean it doesn¡¯t exist." Gu Qixiao was furious about this matter.


    He knew it would likely take some time to resolve everything smoothly.


    "Where is Yu now?"


    "Based on what happened during your walk this time, I¡¯ve decided to keep her here a while longer. Otherwise, if our n fails, it would be because of you." He was resolute in his stance.


    He hadn¡¯t originally intended for Ji Yu to stay here for long.


    "What do you mean by that? Are you seriously considering imprisoning Yu?"


    "You¡¯re right. I do intend to imprison her. Otherwise, what do you think I want to do?" He never lied about such matters.


    "Look at you now. Aren¡¯t you incredibly worried about Ji Yu¡¯s situation? There¡¯s no need for that¡ªmaybe she¡¯ll have a better life here with me than she ever did with you."


    Heughed recklessly, as if he had already foreseen the inevitable separation between the two of them.


    Gu Qixiao despised most when others imed that he and Ji Yu had no future together.


    Since things had already developed to this point, there was no saving face anymore.


    "I want her released now. Otherwise, don¡¯t me me for taking action."


    "Do you really dare take action against me? Look at your current situation." He found this endlessly amusing.


    "Your soft spot is already in my hands. If you try to act, who do you think will get hurt first? Perhaps it will be Ji Yu."


    Gu Qixiao knew he was bound to make such threats.


    So he kept hisposure without much disturbance.


    "What do you think you are? Even if you want to harm Yu, you¡¯d have to prove you have the ability to pull it off."


    He had never been an easygoing person, and encountering such events now made being polite unnecessary.


    "I don¡¯t know what I am, but given your weakness is already in my hands, it means I never lose. Why would I hand it over?"


    He didn¡¯t see an issue with this. They had originally agreed to leave her here longer, and it was their side who broke the agreement first.


    At this moment, Ji Yu was brought down as well.


    Seeing the current situation, she instantly understood. He was using her safety as leverage to threaten Gu Qixiao.


    "Gu Qixiao, whatever you¡¯re aiming to do, go ahead boldly. Don¡¯t worry about me." She wasn¡¯t afraid of such threats.


    They should have resolved everything clearly to begin with.


    Li Yu didn¡¯t appear angry but found their interaction entertaining.


    "Look at you two¡ªlike separated lovers torn apart by fate. Someone who doesn¡¯t know better might think your feelings run deep." He scoffed at their emotions, firmly believing there was no such thing as genuine love in this world.


    "Stop putting on a tragic romance act in front of me; it won¡¯t change my stance." He had zero interest in such dramatics.


    "Focus instead onpensating me for my losses. Otherwise, this matter won¡¯t end peacefully."


    "Why should Ipensate you for your losses when you provoked the trouble first?" Ji Yu couldn¡¯t make sense of this.


    Especially under the circumstances they were in now.


    "Don¡¯t you feel guilty? When you engage in such actions, do you ever consider what your family would think?"


    "Breaking apart someone else¡¯s family is absolutely hical."


    Having grown up in an orphanage, Ji Yu ced extra attention on matters like these.


    Upon learning of their n, she had decisively chosen to sabotage it without hesitation.


    "Do you realize that what you¡¯re doing could shatter a family? No matter how vile that family might be, they shouldn¡¯t have to endure this kind of consequence."


    "Surely you wouldn¡¯t argue that even a missing child can be guilty."


    "Ji Yu, look at yourself now. Aren¡¯t you just trying to lecture me from a moral high ground? Do you truly believe weck any morality?"


    Their moralityy solely in letting certain people enjoy fleeting family happiness.


    Not in ensuring family reunification.


    "They¡¯ve searched for this missing person for so long and now she¡¯s been returned to them. Shouldn¡¯t they be overjoyed?" Situations like these ought to be celebrated instead.


    Ji Yu thought he was utterly unreasonable.


    So she decided not to bother debating further. Continuing the conversation would only frustrate herself.


    "Gu Qixiao, I¡¯m perfectly safe here. So from now on, you don¡¯t need to worry about me. You just need to focus on sorting out whatever you were supposed to handle."


    She never feared their threats. And besides, if their threats were effective, they wouldn¡¯t need tactics like these to keep her here.


    Clearly, they still required her abilities.


    Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t fully grasp her situation, but from her demeanor, he understood he might not need to intervene in the uing events.


    "Yu, I hope you¡¯ll wait for me to return."


    When the timees, he wouldn¡¯t allow anything to hold him back.


    He just wanted the person he deeply cared about to return to his side. Was that so unreasonable?


    Off to the side, Li Yu watched their interaction, feeling speechless.


    "You two really are giving me another tragic romance performance here. Can¡¯t you spare me? I despise seeing things like this the most."


    Li Yu believed what he couldn¡¯t have, no one else should expect to obtain.


    Since he hadn¡¯t achieved this kind of affection before, he would never pine for it again.


    Ji Yu ignored his remarks.


    Everyone knew his worldview was problematic, and arguing with him would only bring unnecessary frustration.


    Gu Qixiao gave Ji Yu several instructions before finally leaving the base.


    Ji Yu watched his departing figure and knew they probably wouldn¡¯t be able to meet for quite a long time.


    "I¡¯m especially curious¡ªwho told you about this? You shouldn¡¯t have discovered mymunication devices."


    She hadn¡¯t forgotten about this, finding it extraordinary.


    "If you want to know, I can tell you. But you might have to pay a small price."


    He never cared for professional ethics. If someone told him, that person clearlycked integrity too.


    "I won¡¯t pay any price. That was something I was forced into before."


    Hearing her response, Li Yu couldn¡¯t help but chuckle.


    "You¡¯re truly an intriguing person, not even interested in matters like these anymore."

 Chapter 197: A Stab in the Back

    <h4>Chapter 197: Chapter 197: A Stab in the Back</h4>


    "I have many interests, but not every one of them is worth the price I¡¯d have to pay. Besides, I can uncover the truth myselfter¡ªwhy would I need to get the answer from you?"


    She kept her rity intact in matters like these, fully aware that the situation ahead could not rely on such tactics.


    "Ji Yu, wouldn¡¯t it be wonderful if you were willing to stay by my side? I¡¯m certain the two of us would reap a lot of rewards together."


    Theirbined abilities indeed could yield unforeseen results, but Ji Yu simply didn¡¯t enjoy such a way of living.


    "I can wait for you to take your time and think about it, but this matter will still demand a price from you."


    "Hasn¡¯t the price I¡¯ve paid been staying here this long? Now that I¡¯ve agreed to remain here quietly as you asked, I won¡¯t go back on my word."


    Ji Yu said calmly.


    Li Yu didn¡¯t seem the least bit surprised.


    "You want to leave here? First, you should see if you even have the ability to pull it off."


    There was no point in arguing over this. If she truly wanted to leave, there were still many ways to make it happen.


    However, since she was carrying a child, she opted to avoid unnecessary turmoil.


    What happens next all depends on Gu Qixiao.


    Gu Qixiao had long grasped Ji Yu¡¯s intentions, so he had decisively returned to thepany.


    He gave Hong a brief update on Ji Yu¡¯s situation.


    "Sister Yu shouldn¡¯t encounter much trouble. Since she¡¯s earned the trust of these people with her abilities, they¡¯re bound to seek her out again in the future." Things like this often have a second urrence once there¡¯s a first.


    So, for the time being, they did not need to worry about Ji Yu¡¯s daily safety.


    "I just went over the clues Sister Yu left behind. It seems we can¡¯t act for now." Handling this matter perfectly was indeed proving difficult.


    "Sister Yu is carrying your child, so we can¡¯t act rashly either. For now, we can only wait until the time is right."


    Ji Yu had always taken situations like these in stride, thinking them no big deal despite the asional bumps, but now that she was pregnant, such matters had to be avoided wherever possible.


    "I understand." He grew increasingly certain that this had something to do with Song Xuan.


    "I must go back and find out who leaked this information." His anger was palpable, and it was clear he intended to settle scores with whoever was responsible.


    "I suggest you don¡¯t react in anger over this¡ªthere¡¯s a chance this person could still end up helping us." There were plenty of ways to deal with someone like that.


    For a moment, Gu Qixiao was torn, uncertain whether he should go trouble Song Xuan or exercise some restraint for now.


    "If you¡¯re unsure, why not test the waters? You might get some answers in the end." He never thought this situation warranted overreaction.


    "In any case, I¡¯ll head back first and figure out what¡¯s really going on. If she¡¯s truly the one who leaked the information, we¡¯ll have no reason to keep any further contact."


    When he returned home, Song Xuan greeted him with an overly cheerful demeanor and even warmly wrapped her arm around his.


    "Xiao, how do you have time to visit me today?" She acted so obedient and surprised, as though she hadn¡¯t the faintest clue she¡¯d been found out.


    "Shouldn¡¯t you tell me who you¡¯ve been in contact withtely? I don¡¯t understand why you would do what you did, but you¡¯ve crossed my line."


    She appeared bewildered, as though clueless as to why this was being pinned on her.


    "Xiao, I don¡¯t quite understand what you¡¯re saying. Did someone tell you lies about me, making you act like this? I truly haven¡¯t done a thing wrong. You even arranged for bodyguards by the door; how could I have gone anywhere?"


    She put on a pitiful face and attempted to reach out to hug him.


    Gu Qixiao dodged her without the slightest hesitation.


    "I don¡¯t know what made you think this was okay, but I¡¯m furious right now." Why must the business between the two of them be drawn into Ji Yu¡¯s affairs?


    "I don¡¯t like you, so there¡¯s no way the two of us could ever be together. Who I choose to be with has nothing to do with you." He spoke with cold finality, leaving no room for misinterpretation.


    Song Xuan couldn¡¯t even fake a smile anymore.


    "Xiao, how can you use such hurtful words on me? We used to be so close, but ever since Ji Yu came into the picture, everything has changed."


    "Back then, it was because of your injury that I took care of you¡ªhow could I have had any other intentions?" He saw nothing wrong with the way things had been then.


    "Xiao, our rtionship isn¡¯t something anyone else should define. And why should we keep our distance? I¡¯ve done nothing to hurt you."


    Recently, she¡¯d gone out of her way to behave as docilely as possible, hoping to ease his guard, but why did it seem to have no effect now?


    "Everything you¡¯ve been doing only frustrates me further. I hope you won¡¯t push my limits again." His tone carried a distinctck of patience now.


    "Xiao, I really haven¡¯t done anything wrong. You can¡¯t pin this on me."


    Gu Qixiao couldn¡¯t shake the thought that if it wasn¡¯t for her, then who else could have leaked the information? Besides, she was one of the least likely to remain clueless about it all.


    "Whether you¡¯ve done wrong, you know best in your heart. I don¡¯t want to argue with you anymore. Just make sure the days toe won¡¯t be too difficult."


    Still, his mind was preupied with concerns for Ji Yu.


    "Xiao, you wouldn¡¯t be this worried unless something happened to Doctor Ji, would you?"


    Her voice carried a hint of probing.


    "Our matters have nothing to do with you, and you don¡¯t need to concern yourself with her." He had a strong gut feeling that this somehow connected to her.


    "You¡¯d better be as innocent as you im, or else I won¡¯t hesitate to show you the door." Everything about the situation seemed off to him.


    "Xiao, if you really want to drive me out, you don¡¯t need such an excuse. I¡¯ve already been prepared for it. Didn¡¯t you promise before that you¡¯d still visit me often?"


    Her dissatisfaction with the situation bubbled to the surface. Seeing how things were now, she clung even more tightly to the hope he might stay.


    She threw her arms around Gu Qixiao. "Xiao, don¡¯t leave tonight, alright? Let¡¯s just focus on us¡ªforget about everything else."


    She had mustered all the courage she could, hoping this time she¡¯d seed.


    "Do you really think this is meaningful at all?"

 Chapter 198 Blunt Rejection

    <h4>Chapter 198: Chapter 198 Blunt Rejection</h4>


    Gu Qixiao was already suspicious of Song Xuan, and now seeing her like this, he felt utterly speechless.


    "I don¡¯t know how much longer you n to keep this up, but everything you¡¯re doing now only makes me despise you more." He had already warned her countless times not to touch Ji Yu, so why wouldn¡¯t she listen?


    "Xiao, I really don¡¯t know anything. Why are you doubting me? You have so many people around you¡ªhow could it possibly be me leaking this information? Xiao, you should know everything!"


    She was losing control.


    More than anything, she felt the weight of his frustration.


    She knew perfectly well that the next time they met, things would likely not look like this anymore.


    "Xiao, I really don¡¯t understand why you suspect me like this. I¡¯ve never done something like that¡ªthere¡¯s no way I¡¯d tell anyone about it." She sobbed as she spoke.


    "If you truly haven¡¯t told anyone, you wouldn¡¯t have this kind of attitude." Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t understand why she was acting like this. They were close enough, and he had explicitly warned her that this matter must never be disclosed to anyone.


    "Do you know how disastrous the consequences of your actions could be?" He didn¡¯t initially intend to make things so ugly, but she had crossed the line.


    "I¡¯ve already repaid everything I owed you before. From now on, I¡¯ll no longer deal with your affairs." He was deeply disappointed in her. He had once believed her to be kind-hearted, but now the truth told him that as long as people existed, greed would follow.


    "Xiao, what do you mean by this?" Song Xuan started to panic, realizing that if he left like this, they might truly never meet again.


    "My meaning is crystal clear: from now on, there is no need for you to see me again." He had already arranged everything, hoping she would reflect and not cause any more inexplicable trouble.


    "Take a look at what you¡¯re doing now. Don¡¯t you feel you¡¯ve crossed the line?"


    He had specifically warned her before that disclosing this matter would be extremely dangerous, but shepletely disregarded his words.


    "You never understand what I really feel. Every time, all you care about is Ji Yu¡ªdoes she really mean that much to you? Enough for you to abandon me like this?" Song Xuan was breaking down, unable to fathom his resolve.


    "I don¡¯t even know what I can do to win you back, but I truly don¡¯t want to lose you this way." They had been so close before, so why had everything suddenly changed?


    "Have you considered that this is how things were destined to be? It¡¯s just that you romanticized it too much."


    From the very beginning, Gu Qixiao had only viewed her as someone to repay a debt to. He had never once considered building any other kind of rtionship with her.


    She had been the one repeatedly iming there was a chance between them. Now, he had found someone he loved¡ªwhy should he continue to cling to her?


    "You keep saying I don¡¯t understand your feelings. But have you ever understood mine? I¡¯ve fallen for someone, and I don¡¯t want to keep entangling myself with you. I¡¯ve made myself abundantly clear, yet you insist on acting this way. That just makes you both foolish and vile."


    Gu Qixiao had only intended to rify everything, but seeing how agitated she was, he decided extreme measures were necessary.


    Song Xuan had never imagined that one day things between them would deteriorate to this point, leaving her on the verge of copse.


    "Xiao, if you walk out of this room, we¡¯ll never see each other again. So I might as well just end it all right now." She pulled out a dagger and held it against her neck.


    She had used a simr tactic before, and it had worked remarkably well.


    "Do you even know what you¡¯re doing? If you make a move, there¡¯ll be no chance of survival. I don¡¯t want to see you like this."


    Gu Qixiao genuinely couldn¡¯tprehend why she always reacted so irrationally at the drop of a hat.


    Was it really so important?


    Their rtionship had been tenuous from the start, yet she acted as though there had been something significant between them.


    "This isn¡¯t how things between us should be." He felt deeply troubled.


    "I already have someone in my heart now. That¡¯s why I want to make things clear with you. I hope you won¡¯t meddle in the future between us. Your life will still be prosperous, no need to worry about anything else."


    He could ensure her wealth and luxuries going forward.


    He could even let her live the remainder of her life in peace.


    "Xiao, what I¡¯ve wanted was never money or a stable life. All I¡¯ve ever wanted is you. So why are you always rejecting me?"


    Her tears fell incessantly, like broken pearls sliding off their string. Her heart ached terribly, and she didn¡¯t know how else to express herself.


    "Xiao, I only want you. Can you stay by my side? If you do, I promise not to trouble her anymore."


    She pleaded as she looked at Gu Qixiao, as though this were the only solution to their predicament.


    Gu Qixiao felt nothing but boredom with the situation unfolding before him.


    "Do whatever you want. I refuse to let you use this kind of tactic to threaten me ever again¡ªI won¡¯t fall for it anymore."


    He had already done more than enough, yet she kept demanding in this way. That was entirely on her.


    Song Xuan stared at his retreating figure in disbelief, as though their rtionship had really reached its breaking point.


    Perhaps her emotions were too overwhelming, for she suddenly copsed.


    Gu Qixiao was startled by themotion behind him. Turning around and seeing her in such a state, he could only feel a deep sense of helplessness.


    "Take her to the hospital."


    "And you, sir..." The bodyguard hesitated, unsure of what to do next.


    "I¡¯m not a doctor. Do you think I can cure her illness?"


    He had more pressing matters to handle. Ji Yu¡¯s situation remained unclear, and if her identity were exposed, trouble would surely follow her.


    He needed to act swiftly to ensure her safety.


    But to his surprise, Ji Yu waspletely unscathed.


    "You look so rxed, as if this ce were your home. It honestly makes me wonder¡ªhave you been prepared for this all along, deliberately letting me uncover it?"

 Chapter 199 Leisure

    <h4>Chapter 199: Chapter 199 Leisure</h4>


    "I would never treat this ce as my home. My own home is far better than this. And what do you mean by saying these things? Are you nning to let me go?"


    When Ji Yu spoke, she never hesitated about matters like this. The rtionship between them was already not especially good to begin with.


    Li Yu had never encountered a woman like her. No matter the situation, she always seemed unppable, as if nothing could faze her.


    "Aren¡¯t you afraid I¡¯ll make a move against you? It seems like you don¡¯t have much else you can do right now."


    He was extremely curious about what she would do next.


    "Even if you do make a move against me, what then? Are you nning to abduct me outright? You¡¯ve already locked me in your base. Where else can I even go now?"


    Ji Yu had long since resolved to take things as they came, so she had no reservations about saying such things now.


    "Even you yourself know there¡¯s no way you¡¯d let me leave, so why should I act like I care about appearances and keep putting myself in a difficult position?"


    It¡¯s better to be straightforward, even if it¡¯s frustrating¡ªat least that way there¡¯s a kind of freedom and ease.


    It seemed this matter truly felt like a dead end.


    Li Yu didn¡¯t even know what method he could use to resolve it smoothly.


    "Ji Yu, you should be grateful for your own hands. If it weren¡¯t for them, I would have dealt with you long ago."


    Her skill in performing stic surgeries was indeed above average. He had already asked many people about her before.


    The feedback was always the same: the surgeries Ji Yu could perform were ones others weren¡¯t always able to seed in.


    "I worked hard to hone these skills. Why wouldn¡¯t I use them for this?"


    In fact, this was Ji Yu¡¯s first time encountering a situation like this, and it made her feel deeply uneasy. Why use such methods to break apart a family?


    "If you¡¯de up with another n, I might have cooperated with you. But to deceive an elderly person like this¡ªI absolutely cannot ept it."


    While she didn¡¯t fully understand the grudges between them, using such tactics was undeniably cruel.


    "Is it because you were an orphan as a child that you¡¯re especially sensitive to things like this? You don¡¯t have to see this matter through your own lens¡ªpeople aren¡¯t always as perfect as you imagine."


    After all, there are far more malicious people in this world.


    "You think using methods like this can rescue some sense of morality, but the truth is you can¡¯t save anyone."


    They were only employing this scheme to bring some happiness to someone¡¯ster years, so they could hand over their remaining possessions.


    "How do you know they won¡¯t feel joy when they see the child of this fake family? Maybe they¡¯ll have an even deeper connection with the child from this fake family."


    With the contrast of this fake child, they might find the fake child to be more obedient. Whether real or fake might not be so important, actually.


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t know how to articte her thoughts, but deep down, she absolutely couldn¡¯t agree to let this continue.


    "I approach everything I do with my own principles. What you¡¯re proposing is entirely outside the scope of what I would consider. I don¡¯t care what you n next, but right now, I will never agree."


    She hadn¡¯t forgotten why she pursued surgery in the first ce¡ªher hope was that everyone could have a perfect face.


    Every face has ws, ws that can make people feel inferior. That¡¯s why she used her skills to help them rediscover themselves.


    So, to use her techniques on something like this¡ªshe couldn¡¯t ept it at all.


    "Sometimes, being too principled isn¡¯t a good thing." Those who started out without principles still managed to live happy and carefree lives.


    In fact, it¡¯s these matters that only serve to bring more headaches. It would be better to forget it all for now.


    "Look at yourself now. You¡¯re being consumed by this matter. If you had no principles, you wouldn¡¯t be entangled in it at all."


    "Without principles, are you still a person?" Ji Yu never thought there was anything inherently wrong with having principles.


    Without principles, there¡¯s hardly any distinction between a person and something else entirely.


    "Our values have never aligned, so what you¡¯re describing sounds utterly horrifying to me."


    One shouldn¡¯t be too fixated on things like this.


    "Ji Yu, stop assuming you can stand on some moral high ground and criticize me. Do you think you¡¯re truly a wless person? Haven¡¯t you ever done anything wrong before?"


    He didn¡¯t believe a person¡¯s life would always unfold ording to the rules. If it really did, there wouldn¡¯t be much to say about such a life.


    Ji Yu couldn¡¯t understand this viewpoint either.


    "The bad things I¡¯ve done don¡¯t mean Ick principles."


    She never thought of herself as a noble person¡ªit was just that, regarding this matter, she felt it absolutely shouldn¡¯t unfold this way.


    She had never imed to be virtuous. It was merely that, upon encountering this situation, she sensed there was no reason for such developments.


    "The things you¡¯re saying only make you sound terribly low." Ji Yu didn¡¯t bother arguing further. She knew he would never understand what was in her heart.


    Her instinctspletely resisted this matter, and there was no way she¡¯d agree to it.


    "I told you before how much I oppose this. Since you¡¯ve asked me to perform this surgery, I¡¯m bound to take full responsibility for it."


    There was no way she could feel any goodwill toward this matter.


    "Ji Yu, you¡¯re truly a stubborn person. Yet, even if you keep being stubborn, it¡¯s not going to change how this unfolds."


    From the start, this was already something unpleasant.


    Ji Yu also found it hard to put her feelings into words.


    If she had to stop this from progressing further, she would ensure that it came to a halt.


    "Stop imagining things in such a perfect way. You can¡¯t do anything about this. You¡¯re trapped here¡ªand your child, too. Do you really think you¡¯re some kind of Saint?"


    As he said these words, he seemed somewhat amused. "It¡¯s normal to think like that. After all, some people tend to regard this kind of thing as really important."


    But whether they have the ability to achieve it¡ªthat all depends on whether they have the fate to do so.

 Chapter 200 Disgust

    <h4>Chapter 200: Chapter 200 Disgust</h4>


    Ji Yu¡¯s attitude towards this matter had always been consistent, so there weren¡¯t many thoughts in her mind now.


    Even when faced with such ridicule, she remained utterlyposed, feeling that such things were perfectly normal.


    "No matter how much more you say, I won¡¯t agree with your idea. And since his face has already changed this much, it will definitely require care afterward. Do you think you can guarantee his face will stay like this permanently?"


    Ji Yu never did anything she wasn¡¯t confident about.


    Now that things had reached this point, it was time to reveal her trump card.


    "I believe you should know the rules in my hospital, so everything I¡¯m doing now is something you must tolerate."


    If it was something only she could aplish, then it had to follow her rules.


    This time, Li Yu¡¯s expression finally changed. He realized she had been prepared all along, which exined her confidence.


    "I really underestimated you." However, this matter didn¡¯t seem so important anymore.


    "What¡¯s done is done. Even if you regret it now, it¡¯s useless. You might as well start thinking about how to resolve this issuepletely." Ji Yu wasn¡¯t trying to threaten them; she just wanted to stress that without her, this matter would never seed.


    "Ji Yu, you¡¯re really something. Since the surgery has been done, we should cleanly resolve this matter ording to our previous agreement." They indeed had an agreement in the beginning.


    "You¡¯re not afraid of my revenge, but the people around you will be, won¡¯t they? Do you think the people around you can handle the consequences of my vengeance?"


    Just likest time, they werepletely unprepared and didn¡¯t even have the chance to resist.


    "I¡¯m a reasonable person. As long as you follow what I say, there¡¯s still a way to resolve the situation between us."


    What he wanted was for others to live unhappily¡ªit had nothing to do with her. But since she insisted on interfering, it would only make things worse.


    "You shouldn¡¯t have meddled in this matter. Your interference will only make it more unbearable."


    "I¡¯m only doing what I believe I should do. The thing I value most is a clear conscience." Ji Yu never lived for others, nor did she care about their opinions. But she couldn¡¯t tolerate what she deemed wrong.


    If she already knew something was wrong, why continue to be entangled in it?


    Ji Yu wasn¡¯t even sure how to discuss this matter anymore.


    So she decided not to bother with him; he would definitelye to herter.


    Peacefully epting all of this was actually quite fine.


    Li Yu also understood that the uing developments might not go as nned.


    But for now, there wasn¡¯t much he could do to act against her.


    Bringing such a troublesome figure back was indeed frustrating.


    "Ji Yu, you truly leave people at a loss, but I enjoy challenges like this the most."


    He never cared about boring people or trivial things, yet now, she had sessfully caught his attention.


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t think this was a good thing. They were never close to begin with.


    Who knows what would happen next?


    "The previous matter can already be considered as repaying my debt of gratitude to you. If something like this happens again, I won¡¯t hesitate to strike back at you."


    He never thought there was anything wrong with doing so.


    "One day, you¡¯ll realize how much of a mistake this is for you. What could¡¯ve been solved is now causing unnecessary trouble."


    It could only be said that she didn¡¯t yet grasp the severity of the situation.


    Ji Yu also didn¡¯t know how things would unfold next.


    But since the words had already been spoken, there was no room for regret.


    Her current biggest worry was that Gu Qixiao might lose hisposure.


    Gu Qixiao indeed felt restless; knowing that the person he cared about was locked up here, how could he not have any thoughts?


    "How¡¯s Yu doing?"


    Hong hadn¡¯t gotten any leads, and during this time, the other side had likely grown cautious, which made it impossible for their messages to get through.


    "Sister Yu has probably been confined this whole time, unable to gain her freedom. That¡¯s likely why no messages havee through. It¡¯s time for us to figure something out and resolve this matter before anything else."


    They were all worried about Ji Yu¡¯s safety, so giving up wasn¡¯t an option.


    "From the map Sister Yu sent earlier, the baseyout has been nearly fully marked. If we follow this map, we might be able to rescue her."


    However, the concern was that the other side might¡¯ve changed their base setup upon realizing what had happened.


    If they rushed over, it would be easy for them to fall into a trap.


    "I wonder who it was that leaked our information. If that hadn¡¯t happened, we¡¯d have been 100% confident in rescuing her."


    Hong was deeply frustrated by this matter.


    What should¡¯ve been resolved cleanly had now turned into this mess. Anyone would feel annoyed in such a situation.


    He also didn¡¯t know how to tackle this issue.


    "But Sister Yu definitely can¡¯t escape on her own, so we have no choice but to try. At least if we try, there¡¯s a chance, or else we won¡¯t even have that."


    They didn¡¯t know if things would go as nned, but they had to make the attempt. Otherwise, there would be no opportunities left.


    Gu Qixiao was still waiting for news. As long as Ji Yu said they could act, he wouldn¡¯t hesitate for a second.


    "Let¡¯s wait a little longer. The timing still isn¡¯t quite right."


    "What do you mean? Don¡¯t tell me you¡¯re afraid now?" Hong had thought Gu Qixiao would be the most eager one, but he never expected him to say something like this.


    Angry and frustrated, Hong felt this matter wouldn¡¯t end well.


    "I really thought you cared deeply for Sister Yu, but now it seems you¡¯re weighing pros and cons and putting herst."


    He was visibly upset, feeling there was no longer any reason to cooperate. Their rtionship had already been tense to begin with.


    "That¡¯s not what I mean. You should understand that Yu has her own ns. Thest time I sought her out, she told me to hold off for now and not get involved."


    Clearly, there was something else being prepared in the background of this matter.


    Gu Qixiao had immense faith in Ji Yu.


    "Don¡¯t you trust her?"


    Hong was momentarily at a loss for words, unsure of how to respond.

 Chapter 201 Trust

    <h4>Chapter 201: Chapter 201 Trust</h4>


    He did believe that Ji Yu certainly had the capability.


    But the situation in front of him made him so worried he could hardly hold himself together.


    "I trust Sister Yu, but I can¡¯t just sit here and wait for doom to arrive. Knowing full well this matter is dangerous and yet doing nothing to prepare¡ªthat would be my fault."


    He was terrified of something happening to Ji Yu.


    If something did happen and it was because he stood by without acting, he would regret it for the rest of his life.


    "I¡¯m even more worried about Yu than you are, but we need to understand that no news yet means the situation isn¡¯t critical¡ªfor now." When he had seen Ji Yu earlier, Ji Yu hadn¡¯t even seemed anxious.


    "As long as they still need Yu¡¯s abilities, they won¡¯t just act recklessly."


    He knew this well, which was why he hadn¡¯t thought about taking action from the start.


    For a moment, Hong hesitated too. Both of them had their own thoughts, but both were thinking of Ji Yu¡¯s wellbeing.


    That¡¯s why they wavered in such indecision.


    In the end, it was Feng Qinqin who supported Gu Qixiao¡¯s reasoning. "If Yuyu had any issues, she would definitely tell us. That day, even under those circumstances, she didn¡¯t say anything. That must mean there¡¯s no problem."


    She had great faith in Ji Yu¡¯s abilities.


    Hong was indeed cold and indifferent toward others, but toward Ji Yu and Feng Qinqin, he truly cared.


    "I understand." After hearing Feng Qinqin¡¯s words, he responded with seriousness.


    There wasn¡¯t the slightest indication of anger.


    Gu Qixiao felt helpless about the situation too. Knowing how close their rtionship was, he could only temporarily endure her approach.


    "Gu Qixiao, you should focus more on Yuyu and her situation. If anything happens, we¡¯ll act immediately. After all, this started because of me, so I definitely won¡¯t just stand by and watch."


    She was also anxious about Ji Yu¡¯s situation.


    But she still retained some rationality.


    For now, they had calmed down a bit.


    Meanwhile, Ji Yu seemed calm as well.


    Seeing that the person¡¯s face had mostly recovered, she showed no signs of urgency either.


    "You should be very clear that your face will never return to how it was. Is there such a deep hatred between you that it led you to give up your original appearance to be like this?"


    She was genuinely curious if this was something the person had done willingly.


    "This is all what I want to do." There was a flicker of anger in his eyes, and it seemed there truly was a grudge against this family.


    Given this, even if Ji Yu wanted to persuade him, there was nothing she could do.


    "Don¡¯t you find this exhausting?" Just the thought of it made her feel tired.


    "What¡¯s so tiring about it? I¡¯m living happily now. Just thinking about how they¡¯ll suffer in the end, and imagining their faces when they discover I¡¯m not their child, makes me ecstatic." He spoke with visible excitement.


    Ji Yu furrowed her brow, unable to piece together what was really happening.


    Still, she knew better than to give unsolicited advice about something she hadn¡¯t experienced herself.


    Surveying the situation before her, she found herself at a loss.


    "So you don¡¯t care about your face either?"


    "This face serves its purpose; I¡¯m more than satisfied. But Doctor Ji, I¡¯ve heard you want to ruin this n? I suggest you steer clear of meddling. This n is crucial to us." Thinking of past events, anger flickered across his face.


    Ji Yu truly didn¡¯t know how to persuade them.


    At least from the current situation, they appeared united in purpose.


    Ji Yu felt uncertain about the matter as well.


    So she asked straightforwardly if he had any other symptoms and, upon receiving the answer, left without hesitation.


    Li Yu knew Ji Yu hadn¡¯t fully ruled out the possibility of amodating their n.


    "If you can¡¯t ept it, we won¡¯t force you. Just make sure you don¡¯t interfere, and we¡¯ll pretend none of this ever happened."


    He was already showing enough leniency toward Ji Yu. If this had been someone else, they would have been dealt with promptly.


    "Considering the kindness you¡¯ve shown me in the past, you can rest assured that I won¡¯t take any further action against this. Just follow my instructions obediently, and nothing will happen."


    "Is that so?" Ji Yu couldn¡¯t fathom why he was capable of such machinations.


    "Honestly, you all shouldn¡¯t have sought me out in the first ce." Getting her involved had onlyplicated matters more, and now no one could say who was really at fault.


    "I¡¯m someone with firm boundaries. So for the things you¡¯ve mentioned, I certainly won¡¯t agree just like that." She understood they all had their own reasons for acting as they did.


    Which was precisely why the situation was so uniquely challenging.


    "Don¡¯t you think this is far too difficult? I can¡¯t just turn a blind eye to this, but if you can¡¯t let it go, what do you propose we do?"


    They each had their own convictions, making persuasion on either side nearly impossible.


    Ji Yu had no idea how they had even joined forces. Were they not all making the situation more awkward for one another?


    "You¡¯re at a disadvantage now and in my hands, so it¡¯s naturally up to you topromise. Ji Yu, sometimes you don¡¯t need to think so much."


    To them, these matters were no different than any others.


    He let out a sigh as he looked at Ji Yu. "You stick to your beliefs, and I¡¯ll stick to mine, so I don¡¯t think there¡¯s any other way to handle this."


    And with that, they reached a standoff of sorts.


    Neither side would pursue the matter further or try to sabotage the other. This was likely the best distance they could maintain between them.


    "Ji Yu, that¡¯s just how people are. If something can¡¯t be resolved through persuasion, just leave it alone. Focus on doing what you need to do¡ªno one will fault you for it." He sighed heavily, finding Ji Yu¡¯s current state troubling.


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t know how to handle the situation either.


    Her feelings were truly a mess.


    "Maybe you¡¯re right," she said.


    Afterward, Ji Yu¡¯s demeanor suggested she had utterly given up, showing no concern for whaty ahead.


    But Li Yu could tell Ji Yu was merely holding it all in and that if anything were to happen, the oue would be unpredictable.


    Ji Yu couldn¡¯t be bothered to say more. If he wanted to doubt her, so be it. After all, if it could happen once, it could happen again.


    Seeing Ji Yu be increasingly indifferent, Gu Qixiao, on the other hand, was growing more anxious by the minute.


    Gu Qixiao had no idea how to find Ji Yu.


    When he came again to look for her, the only one he found was Li Yu.


    "I want to see Yu." He couldn¡¯t stop worrying about Ji Yu¡¯s safety.

 Chapter 202: Picking Someone Up

    <h4>Chapter 202: Chapter 202: Picking Someone Up</h4>


    Li Yu still seemed a bit impatient. "Why do all of you act as if I¡¯m going to do something to Ji Yu? I absolutely disdain threatening others, let alone someone who has helped me before."


    He remembered the past events clearly.


    So he hoped to be friends with Ji Yu.


    "As long as you don¡¯t interfere with what I want to do, we can still be friends." He was also eager to meet Gu Qixiao. Just as those people had said, Gu Qixiao was an exceedingly capable person.


    Yet, he had never seen Gu Qixiao before, so he was still curious about what kind of person he truly was.


    "Gu Qixiao, I¡¯m assuming you wouldn¡¯t mind if I tried to find out more about you." He looked at Gu Qixiao with an indifferent smile, though he had already calcted the situation in his mind.


    Ji Yu had no idea Gu Qixiao had been here.


    Even less did she know about thepromise Gu Qixiao made after their conversation.


    Hong only thought Gu Qixiao had gone mad.


    "Have you already forgotten what Sister Yu told us before?"


    "Do you want to ensure Ji Yu¡¯s safety, or do you want us to keep helping someone we don¡¯t even know?" When it came to matters like these, his sense of morality could be skewed. As long as the people he cared about were fine, everything else was irrelevant to him.


    "You..." For a moment, Hong didn¡¯t know how to respond, only realizing that Gu Qixiao¡¯s words did hold some truth.


    If Ji Yu ended up harmed, none of them would be content.


    Yet the current situation was indeed prone to danger.


    "Since you know I¡¯m right, then don¡¯t mention this to Yuter." His tone was icily detached.


    For a moment, it was as though he had turned into someone entirely different.


    Hong, who hadn¡¯t encountered someone like this in a long time, found himself struggling to ept it.


    "If you can¡¯t ept it, that¡¯s fine. But moving forward, you must remain silent." He was willing to take on the role of the viin, but they had to follow what he said for the next steps.


    He understood that they might still resist such decisions, but he wasn¡¯t afraid.


    Just as he was about to leave, a message came in from Assistant Li.


    "President Gu, there seems to be something unusual going on; Miss Song has lost her memory."


    He was hesitant about this whole thing. How could someone suddenly lose their memory out of the blue?


    Still, maintaining his professionalism, he decided to report the matter to Gu Qixiao and see how he intended to handle it. After all, the matter didn¡¯t concern him directly.


    "Stay there and keep an eye on things. You don¡¯t need to report anything further to me," Gu Qixiao said, his expression indifferent and his tone cold.


    For a moment, even he didn¡¯t know what else there was to say.


    He could only nce at Song Xuan and sigh, "Alright, I¡¯ll keep watch over matters here."


    Even if Song Xuan¡¯s amnesia was feigned, it wouldn¡¯t change the fact that she¡¯d be unable to see Gu Qixiao in the future.


    "Miss Song, you just need to focus on recovering here. Don¡¯t have any other thoughts." Whether he was warning her or genuinely concerned about her well-being, he wasn¡¯t sure.


    Song Xuan¡¯s face was filled with confusion, as though she couldn¡¯t understand what was going on.


    "What is this supposed to mean?"


    "My superior instructed me not to report any further about your situation. From now on, I¡¯ll be handling your matters, and I hope you won¡¯t have any objections." He had done his best.


    If this happened again, he might genuinely lose his mind.


    Song Xuan lowered her gaze, masking the resentment in her eyes. She knew she had to maintain this situation to hold onto any remaining opportunity. Otherwise, there truly wouldn¡¯t be any chance left.


    Regardless of whether Gu Qixiao showed up or not, as long as she was still alive, this matter wouldn¡¯t simply resolve itself.


    Gu Qixiao wasn¡¯t in the mood to concern himself with her situation.


    Today, he nned to pick up Ji Yu.


    Meanwhile, matters on Li Yu¡¯s end had nearly been handled.


    Ji Yu knew they had likely already sent the person away.


    "You¡¯re letting me leave just like this? Aren¡¯t you worried I¡¯ll cause trouble?"


    "Even if you want to stir things up, it¡¯s toote. The recognition ceremony is over, and anything you say afterward will just make them think you¡¯re crazy." He smiled at Ji Yu, appearingpletely unconcerned by the situation.


    Since they dared to act, it meant they had already prepared for this in advance.


    "Doctor Ji, don¡¯t dwell too much on these matters. You just need to rx and stay calm for now." He maintained a rtively cordial attitude toward Ji Yu, but she couldn¡¯t help feeling there was something hidden she didn¡¯t yet know.


    However, before Ji Yu could ask further, she noticed Gu Qixiao not far off.


    Gu Qixiao checked on Ji Yu and confirmed she wasn¡¯t hurt before letting out a breath of relief. "Thank goodness you¡¯re alright. Yu, if anything had happened to you, I wouldn¡¯t know what to do."


    Situations like this were truly agonizing.


    Ji Yu smiled. "How could anything happen? I just feel uneasy inside. Do you know something I don¡¯t?"


    She couldn¡¯t exin why, but she had this suspicion. Normally, she knew Gu Qixiao wouldn¡¯t involve himself in such matters, yet this time seeing him brought additional thoughts to mind.


    "What could I possibly know?" This time, Gu Qixiao lied.


    He wasn¡¯t sure how Ji Yu would react if she found out, so he could only use this approach to deal with her.


    "Feng Qinqin and the others are still waiting for you to return."


    "How is Qinqin doing?" Ji Yu immediately shifted her focus upon hearing about Feng Qinqin. She cared deeply about Feng Qinqin¡¯s situation.


    "She¡¯s almost fully recovered, but still very worried about you." He knew how close Ji Yu and Feng Qinqin were.


    Ji Yu becamepletely preupied with Feng Qinqin¡¯s situation, setting aside her strange feelings without pursuing them further.


    She trusted that Gu Qixiao couldn¡¯t possibly lie to her, so she chose to believe him.


    When the two of them returned, Ji Yuanzhou and Feng Qinqin were already there.


    Upon seeing Ji Yu unharmed, they finally let out a sigh of relief.


    "Yu, don¡¯t get involved in such matters again. This time was far too dangerous," Ji Yuanzhou said, still anxious every time he thought about what had happened that day.


    He didn¡¯t want to feel inadequate anymore.


    The incident had been caused by him, so bearing the consequences was his responsibility. But Ji Yu shouldn¡¯t have to.


    "Brother, even if you hadn¡¯t sought me out initially, they still would havee for me. I was always their target."


    Their capture was simply a venting of rage.


    Ji Yu understood this, so she couldn¡¯t find it in herself to me them. There was no need for them to feel so tense.

 Chapter 203 No Need to Worry

    <h4>Chapter 203: Chapter 203 No Need to Worry</h4>


    "When ites to things like this, I¡¯ve always been decisive. So, when he made those demands, I¡¯d already thought through everything that would follow. You really don¡¯t need to worry."


    Ji Yu was helpless but understood their genuine concern for her.


    Yet, this kind of concern only made her feel uneasy.


    Ji Yuanzhou had no idea how to describe his current feelings. He understood clearly how important Ji Yu was to him.


    Even if it were impossible for them to be lovers, their sibling bond would never change.


    "Yu, don¡¯t do such risky things again." He was worried about Ji Yu¡¯s safety.


    Ji Yu remained calm andposed.


    "I understand." She had no intention of taking risks anymore, especially for the child. Now already three months along, Ji Yu truly couldn¡¯t afford to take any more chances.


    "Fortunately, both you and the child are fine. During this time, Gu Qixiao has been very worried about you. He¡¯s tried several times to bring you back, but every attempt failed."


    "Several times?" She seemed a little surprised and hadn¡¯t expected Gu Qixiao to have been so persistent.


    "Since I first came to see you, he wouldn¡¯t let me meet you afterward. That¡¯s why I¡¯ve been so worried." He felt ufortable just thinking about what had happened before.


    He was terribly afraid Ji Yu would find out, so he had no choice but to act nonchnt, as if he knew nothing.


    Ji Yu increasingly felt that something was off this time. From the moment Gu Qixiao first said those words, hadn¡¯t he considered something might be wrong?


    She didn¡¯t bring it to the surface.


    But Gu Qixiao already knew Ji Yu was beginning to suspect something.


    He had known all along this matter couldn¡¯t be kept hidden.


    "Yu, they¡¯ve just slightly recovered. How about letting them rest while I take you to the hospital for a follow-up? Just to ensure there¡¯s no troubleter."


    He still couldn¡¯t rest easy about Ji Yu¡¯s condition.


    Ji Yu also had some questions she wanted to ask Gu Qixiao, so she agreed without hesitation.


    "Brother, you and Qinqin rest well. I¡¯ll go take care of the check-up first."


    The two of them left the hospital room.


    At first, Ji Yu remained silent, but her conflicted expression was easy to read.


    "Yu, if you have something to ask, just go ahead. I know you¡¯re starting to doubt me."


    He sighed, epting that sooner orter, the truth woulde out¡ªit was only natural.


    He was resigned to letting things fall apart.


    "It¡¯s nothing. Maybe I¡¯ve just been too sensitivetely. After the check-up, I want to get some proper rest."


    She really couldn¡¯t continue like this.


    Seeing her in this state saddened Gu Qixiao. "Yu..."


    He didn¡¯t want her to dwell on these thoughts any longer. Perhaps it¡¯d be better to just confess everything.


    "I need time to carefully reflect on things, so can we stop talking about it for now?" Her gaze at Gu Qixiao was serious, as if he had severely crossed a line.


    Something in Gu Qixiao¡¯s heart trembled.


    He didn¡¯t know how to broach the topic with Ji Yu, especially seeing her current expression. It was as if once she learned the truth, she¡¯d inevitably leave him.


    "Rest well." For now, he could only hide his thoughts.


    He wanted to spend his life with Ji Yu.


    During the check-up, Ji Yu appeared a bit listless.


    By the end, she had even drifted off to sleep without realizing it.


    Gu Qixiao had no intention of waking her. Staring at her serene, sleeping face, his mind was consumed with everything that had happened.


    "Yu, I¡¯m sorry." He truly didn¡¯t know how to exin. For now, he decided to keep it a secret.


    Even in her sleep, Ji Yu seemed to sense his unspoken apology, furrowing her brows slightly as though deeply troubled.


    Gu Qixiao carried her directly back to the vi.


    The next morning, Ji Yu woke up in a daze. "Where am I?"


    "My house." He had wanted to bring her here, knowing she¡¯d never been exposed to his world before.


    Unexpectedly, her first reaction was to ask if his father was there.


    "My dad doesn¡¯t live with me. This is my own ce."


    So, does that mean there¡¯s no issue?


    Ji Yu wasn¡¯t sure whether to feel relieved or something else entirely.


    The situation just felt awkward.


    After all, she and Mr. Gu were so familiar with each other that, if they came face-to-face, keeping things a secret would be impossible.


    "Do you want to meet my parents?" Gu Qixiao asked, evidently misunderstanding her meaning and trying to figure it out.


    Ji Yu disyed no particr reaction. "No, I¡¯m just worried aboutst night. If someone saw, it¡¯d be embarrassing."


    She guessed he must have carried her backst night.


    Feeling a headacheing on, she rubbed her temples, suddenly not knowing how to face things moving forward.


    "Gu Qixiao, if I kept something from you, would you be angry with me?"


    "No." Gu Qixiao responded almost without hesitation.


    Although Ji Yu had done many things that upset him in the past, the moment he saw her face, no matter what it was, it became unimportant.


    Ji Yu wasn¡¯t sure what to expect next, but the present situation was undeniablyplicated.


    "Would you ever grow tired of me?" He had long wanted to ask this and now saw the perfect opportunity.


    He wanted to know what Ji Yu truly felt.


    Ji Yu was momentarily bewildered, unsure of what he meant.


    "What do you mean?"


    "I mean, if I had something I had to keep from you for a while, would you be mad at me for it?" He was deeply anxious that Ji Yu would immediately talk about leaving.


    Ji Yu pondered for a moment. Since Gu Qixiao had already said he wouldn¡¯t be angry, she refrained from taking this issue too seriously.


    "No, I can¡¯t imagine being angry about something like that."


    Gu Qixiao knew she was likely just agreeing because of what he¡¯d said earlier and didn¡¯t feel reassured at all. Still, he considered it a temporary reprieve.


    "The day such a thing happens, you won¡¯t be saying that."


    "How could I not? Whatever I say, I stick to it." She was firm in her belief.


    Besides, given the current circumstances, didn¡¯t he understand?


    "I think you¡¯re overthinking. You won¡¯t do something like that, and there¡¯s no need to worry. If that dayes, neither of us may be able to control it."


    She understood her own temper well.

 Chapter 204: The Course of Events

    <h4>Chapter 204: Chapter 204: The Course of Events</h4>


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t understand why he was so fixated on this matter, but since they had alreadyid everything out clearly, this issue probably wouldn¡¯t crop up so easily again.


    "Yu, get some rest."


    It was the first time he realized that some things could actually make a person feel afraid. Before, someone like Gu Qixiao would never have hesitated about such matters.


    But now, for Ji Yu, he truly didn¡¯t dare to tell the truth.


    This situation troubled him deeply, to the point where even Ji Yu felt that something about him seemed a bit off.


    "Why do I feel like you¡¯ve been avoiding metely? Is there something you¡¯re not telling me?"


    "No, it¡¯s just that work has been particrly busytely," he answered without the slightest hesitation.


    Although Ji Yu remained somewhat skeptical, seeing how his expression genuinely reflected some stress, she chose not to press further by the end.


    Butter, while having a meal with Feng Qinqin, she brought it up, "I don¡¯t know if it¡¯s just my imagination, but I feel like Gu Qixiao has been acting a little strangetely. Yet, I can¡¯t seem to pinpoint exactly what¡¯s off."


    It was something that required further thought.


    Feng Qinqin was startled, but she knew this was absolutely not something Ji Yu could find out about. "You¡¯re overthinking it. You know he¡¯s been busy handling things for you recently. How could he possibly be hiding anything from you?"


    She understood perfectly that everything Gu Qixiao had been doing was for Ji Yu. Sometimes, such matters needed to be covered up with well-intentioned lies.


    "Really?" Ji Yu was already certain they were hiding something from her.


    When others lied, she might not always notice, but her friendship with Feng Qinqin ran so deep¡ªhow could she not see through her habits?


    Feng Qinqin¡¯s guilty demeanor only confirmed that this matter couldn¡¯t be brushed aside.


    Still, Ji Yu was sure it wasn¡¯t something that would harm her. Otherwise, Feng Qinqin wouldn¡¯t have helped keep it a secret.


    "Qinqin, have a lot of things happened while I¡¯ve been away?" she asked, her tone betraying no emotion. But Feng Qinqin could tell how hard it was to keep lying.


    "Not much, really. Don¡¯t overthink it," she said, trying to downy the matter and keep Ji Yu from dwelling on it.


    If Ji Yu dwelled on it too much, who knew what direction things would take.


    But how could Ji Yu possibly not care?


    She had a strong feeling that this wasn¡¯t something she wanted to face. Since it had already reached this point, she felt it was time to consider other approaches.


    "Yuyu, I know you¡¯re already suspicious of me, but I truly can¡¯t talk about this. From an outsider¡¯s perspective, it might seem right, but you might not think so."


    That was all she could say.


    The things Ji Yu had encountered were truly rming.


    It wasn¡¯t easy for her to be where she was now.


    All Feng Qinqin wished for was that there wouldn¡¯t be any issues between Ji Yu and Gu Qixiao.


    Ji Yu just looked at her, seeming not angry but filled with understanding.


    "Qinqin, I don¡¯t like the feeling of being kept in the dark. Even if it¡¯s something terrible, I want to know the truth, instead of being deceived or unable to see the full picture." She did not like this feeling.


    Especially when everyone else knew about it.


    She felt excluded.


    This thought darkened Ji Yu¡¯s mood considerably.


    "Yuyu, you need to understand, the reason everyone isn¡¯t telling you is to spare you the worry. No matter what else, you should at least think about the baby you¡¯re carrying."


    Feng Qinqin looked at Ji Yu helplessly as she said this.


    Ji Yu raised an eyebrow. She didn¡¯t have strong feelings about the baby, "I will definitely protect this child, but the secrecy between Gu Qixiao and me is wrong."


    Some matters needed to be resolved sooner rather thanter.


    She had thought about it many times before: nothing between her and Gu Qixiao should be obstructed by hidden agendas. But why did it feel like the problem in their rtionship now was themselves?


    "No matter what, this should be exined clearly." If left unresolved, it would only leave both of them feeling unhappy.


    Continuing to harbor such suspicions might lead her to do things even she couldn¡¯t predict, so it was best to settle the issue now.


    "You should know my personality by now." Ji Yu and Feng Qinqin had been friends for so long, they knew each other inside out.


    Feng Qinqin understood why Ji Yu thought the way she did. "You always have to be so persistent. But I really can¡¯t tell you about this. You¡¯ll have to ask Gu Qixiao yourself."


    They really needed to look into what was going on here.


    When Ji Yu returned home, she got straight to the point.


    Looking at Gu Qixiao¡¯s tense expression, how could she not see through it?


    "Gu Qixiao, if there¡¯s something you¡¯re hiding from me, just tell me directly." She tried to appear calm, even hoping to resolve things with him properly.


    They had worked so hard to be together; there was no need for unnecessary drama.


    She wanted them toe to an understanding. If not honesty, then at least rity¡ªthis was the mindset she felt they should embrace now.


    Gu Qixiao knew that Ji Yu would eventually find out, so he had already prepared himself for this day.


    He just didn¡¯t expect it toe so quickly.


    "Yu, if I tell you, you won¡¯t leave me¡ªright?" That was what he had been worried about all along.


    But Ji Yu didn¡¯t respond, merely looking at him quietly, trying to figure out what was so significant that it made him act this way.


    "Yu, if you don¡¯t give me your word, I refuse to say anything." He was remarkably stubborn about this.


    As long as she didn¡¯t promise not to leave, he would hold his ground.


    Ji Yu looked at everything before her and could only feel a sense of helplessness. "Tell me, and I¡¯ll consider it. You can¡¯t just force my hand like this."


    But that¡¯s precisely what he wanted¡ªto force her.


    In his eyes, Ji Yu belonged to him alone. Even if he told her the truth, she couldn¡¯t simply walk away.


    "You promised me before that you wouldn¡¯t leave." He wanted Ji Yu to understand this.


    He wouldn¡¯t leave, nor did he want her to abandon him.


    "What I mean is, as long as what you say isn¡¯t beyond my boundaries, we won¡¯t separate."


    But after saying this, Gu Qixiao still showed no intention of speaking.


    His continued silence made the truth abundantly clear: whatever this was, it had already crossed Ji Yu¡¯s boundaries.

 Chapter 205: Bottom Line

    <h4>Chapter 205: Chapter 205: Bottom Line</h4>


    Ji Yu was very clear about her boundaries.


    She wouldn¡¯t overthink certain matters.


    But now that Gu Qixiao had concealed things to this point, it was indeed possible he might challenge her limits.


    Ji Yu thought about the recent series of events.


    And the sudden release by Li Yu, coupled with their previous reluctance to speak.


    She seemed to have pieced together a vague understanding of the situation.


    Looking at the man in front of her, her feelings wereplicated.


    "You didn¡¯t do as I told you. You helped them send the person, didn¡¯t you?" As she said this, it felt like the blocked air in her chest finally found its way out.


    She couldn¡¯tprehend many things about this matter, but since it hade to this, there really wasn¡¯t much left to say.


    "Yu, I know how much this means to you, but your safety matters more to me."


    Even if he was called selfish, or anything else, it didn¡¯t matter. What he couldn¡¯t do was let Ji Yu be disregarded for someone else¡¯s issues.


    Seeing Ji Yu¡¯s indifferent expression, he knew this would likely be a tough situation to resolve.


    "Yu, you can say whatever harsh words you want, but it¡¯s done. I don¡¯t regret it. I just wanted to protect you." He had never considered regret in his actions, and the current situation genuinely left him worried.


    Ji Yu felt a shade of helplessness. She could guarantee that others wouldn¡¯t push her to cross her bottom line, but when it came to Gu Qixiao, she found herself at a loss for words.


    "Gu Qixiao, you knew how much I cared about this. If it weren¡¯t for this matter, I wouldn¡¯t have ended up trapped then. Yet, in the end, you stabbed me in the back."


    Ji Yu had talked about this many times before. This kind of act was deeply hical, and she was the one who had performed the surgery.


    "Do you understand the psychological stress I¡¯ve been under since performing that surgery?" She had long regretted it. If she hadn¡¯t done it, would the result have turned out differently?


    But in the end, the oue was still something difficult to believe.


    Ji Yu detested this matter. From the beginning, she had resisted, yet Gu Qixiao still went ahead and agreed to it.


    "Gu Qixiao, my heart feels so heavy. Let me think it over, alright? I¡¯m not ming you; I¡¯m ming myself."


    She reproached herself for going through with that surgery, fully aware of their ultimate intentions, yet doing it regardless.


    She had wanted to protect her friend, Ji Yuanzhou, but now the weight on her heart was leaving her gasping for air.


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t know what she should do anymore.


    "It¡¯s not that I hold anything against you. I just think I went too far. The moment I picked up the scalpel, I should¡¯ve anticipated this."


    But reality seemed to have spiraled to a point where she no longer had any control.


    "I need a good night¡¯s sleep. Maybe I really need to rest for a while."


    Gu Qixiao had intended to step forward and support Ji Yu, but seeing her in such a defeated state and recalling the look in her eyes earlier, he suddenly understood. Continuing forward would only make Ji Yu resist more vehemently.


    "Yu, I¡¯m sorry." These words, "I¡¯m sorry," were so feeble, yet he understood that Ji Yu was likely struggling deeply in her heart and couldn¡¯t simply ignore this matter.


    Right then, Assistant Li sent a message: Song Xuan¡¯s condition was unstable. Along with amnesia, she had been inexplicably fainting and had been persistently asking to see Gu Qixiao.


    Left with no choice, despite feeling that he had more or less repaid the debt he owed, Gu Qixiao couldn¡¯t just stand by and watch Song Xuan die.


    So he went to the hospital to check on her.


    But Song Xuan had already lost her memory, so upon seeing him, she felt only a deep sense of unfamiliarity.


    "Who are you?"


    "I¡¯m your friend." He no longer knew how to handle matters concerning Song Xuan, but since he had helped her so much, there was no need to dwell on these favors anymore.


    "If you¡¯re my friend, why are you only visiting me now?" She looked at him with an obviousck of trust.


    Gu Qixiao, however, didn¡¯t have the patience for this. Thinking about how Ji Yu was surely upset at the moment made him feel overwhelmed with irritation.


    "If you have anything to say, just say it directly. I don¡¯t even care if your amnesia is real or fake. If you need anything, talk to Assistant Li." He had no desire to obsess over this issue.


    And anyway, wasn¡¯t her behavior making everything crystal clear?


    Song Xuan couldn¡¯t stop herself from wanting to mock Gu Qixiao but, observing his demeanor, assumed something must have happened. Otherwise, why would he look so distraught?


    "I¡¯d like to be discharged. Is that possible?" She didn¡¯t want to stay there any longer.


    "Assistant Li will arrange it for you tomorrow. If there¡¯s anything else, you can contact him." He had no interest in this matter.


    What he cared about most was Ji Yu.


    As soon as he thought that Ji Yu might end up giving up on him, an unbearable sadness gnawed at him.


    "Yu, what should I do?" He understood Ji Yu¡¯s feelings and what she held dear, but the situation had already reached a conclusion. How could it be changed?


    His emotions were transparently written all over his face. Seeing this, Song Xuan began to suspect that something must have happened on Ji Yu¡¯s end. Otherwise, why would he appear so grim?


    "You¡¯re my friend. Why are you so unhappy? Is it because of something specific?"


    "It has nothing to do with you. Our friendship doesn¡¯t include the right to question matters like this." He didn¡¯t know whether Song Xuan¡¯s amnesia was genuine or just an act. Perhaps it no longer mattered.


    But if she dared to target Ji Yu, this matter wouldn¡¯t be left unresolved.


    "You..." Song Xuan hadn¡¯t expected that even after pretending to have amnesia, Gu Qixiao would maintain this cold attitude.


    The imbnce in her heart grew stronger.


    Why did Ji Yu, who already had everything, still have to take what belonged to her?


    "We were good friends before. I can help you."


    "Your only task now is to stay put and ept treatment. That would be the best way you could help me." He wanted no further involvement in her affairs.


    Their rtionship had already been in a terrible state.


    To continue further would only rekindle inappropriate ideas in her mind.


    "Don¡¯t have thoughts you shouldn¡¯t have, and during this period, someone will take care of you. Don¡¯t constantly ask to see me." He had grown numb to the entire situation.


    What he wanted more than anything now was for Ji Yu to let go of that matter.


    "If there¡¯s nothing else, I¡¯m leaving." He didn¡¯t want to stay here and look at her any longer.


    Song Xuan understood that some things required a more drawn-out strategy. After acting too conspicuously just now, pretending to have amnesia wouldn¡¯t work anymore.


    After leaving, Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t forget to remind Assistant Li not to inform him about such matters in the future.

 Chapter 206 Treatment

    <h4>Chapter 206: Chapter 206 Treatment</h4>


    The next day, he didn¡¯t bother with Song Xuan¡¯s matter and went directly to Ji Yu¡¯s house.


    Ji Yu¡¯s condition had improved significantly; herplexion looked much better.


    However, the issues in her heart still made her feel uneasy.


    She didn¡¯t understand why things had turned out this way.


    "Yu, you don¡¯t have to me yourself too much. This matter wasn¡¯t your fault, to begin with. Back then, you made that choice to save someone."


    Madam Ji understood that Ji Yu¡¯s sense of morality was sometimes too strong, binding her within an unforgiving box.


    "But ultimately, I¡¯m still the culprit behind all of this. Without me, they wouldn¡¯t have seeded in sending that person over." Ji Yu had never deceived herself.


    She had been dwelling on this issue previously, which led to her decision to resolve it once and for all.


    But why, in the end, did the person she cared about most betray her?


    She might not me Gu Qixiao, but she could never absolve herself.


    "I¡¯m just upset with myself for agreeing to this matter so easily back then."


    Even though things had turned out so disastrously, she still remained unresponsive.


    "Yu, the way you¡¯re punishing yourself like this¡ªif Gu saw you, he¡¯d definitely feel heartbroken."


    Madam Ji knew that it hadn¡¯t been easy for the two of them to be together. Now that something like this had happened, it needed to be resolved properly; neither should avoid the problem.


    So when she saw Gu Qixiao arrive, she simply left, giving them the space to talk things through.


    In her heart, she still hoped Ji Yu coulde to terms with this. After all, there had been no other choice in this matter.


    Gu Qixiao was visibly nervous, unsure of how to retrieve the situation. At this point, their meetings only felt awkward.


    How could such circumstances possibly leave anyone feeling at ease?


    "If you have something to say, just say it. I¡¯m not angry."


    She meant what she said¡ªshe wouldn¡¯t fault him for what he had done. Her me rested solely with herself.


    "Yu, I hope you won¡¯t punish yourself like this. Whatever is between us can be discussed properly."


    Even if things had reached the point of no return, they ought to at least talk it out before deciding what¡¯s next.


    "I¡¯ve always believed you¡¯re an excellent doctor. The surgeries you¡¯ve performed have instilled confidence in countless patients. But this particr surgery has left you unsettled, so I hope you can ce the me for this on me."


    He would rather see her get angry at him than watch her suffer alone at home.


    Ji Yu sighed helplessly, "How could I possiblysh out at you for no reason?"


    The two of them could talk things over; there was no need for it to be like this.


    "What I mean is, don¡¯t me yourself. This matter is fundamentally my fault."


    Back when he agreed to it, he had already considered this oue.


    More than anything, he wanted Ji Yu to yell at him, even hit him if necessary, but she absolutely shouldn¡¯t give up on their rtionship or sink into despair.


    "I don¡¯t want to let go of what we have, nor do I want you to feel this upset. So vent all of this on me instead."


    Ji Yu couldn¡¯t help butugh through her tears, "How could you say something like that?"


    She had been feeling deeply sad, but seeing him like this suddenly left her at a loss for words.


    "How could I possiblyy me on you for no reason? I know just how much I mean to you¡ªyou would undoubtedly save me."


    Back then, she should have realized something wasn¡¯t right.


    Li Yu wouldn¡¯t let someone go without reason, and the meaningful words and intent in his gaze at that moment¡ªhow could she have failed to grasp what was really happening?


    Perhaps it was her initial slow reaction that caused her toprehend everything only now.


    "This issue wasn¡¯t your fault to begin with¡ªit¡¯s entirely mine."


    She wanted to do something to make things right, but the result still turned out like this.


    She knew deep within that she couldn¡¯t interfere further with this matter; otherwise, Feng Qinqin would be at risk.


    "At this point, I¡¯ve beenpletely excluded from this issue. Even if I wanted to take action, I couldn¡¯t; no matter how much I think, it changes nothing."


    Ji Yu had known from the start that once this matter began, it would be difficult to bring it to an end.


    And if Li Yu used this method again to threaten her down the line, what could she do?


    She truly didn¡¯t understand why they would drag her into their morally bankrupt decisions.


    "Gu Qixiao, I¡¯m not just worried about this matter¡ªI¡¯m worried about what¡¯s toe. I have a terrible feeling that they¡¯lle looking for me again."


    Judging by their actions, it seemed highly probable that another trouble like this would arise.


    Ji Yu hated situations like this the most.


    Gu Qixiao understood her concerns as well. "I¡¯ll protect you and your friends. I won¡¯t let anything like this happen again."


    He tentatively reached for Ji Yu¡¯s hand.


    This time, Ji Yu didn¡¯t pull away.


    Truth be told, both of them understood¡ªthey held a ce in each other¡¯s hearts.


    But the current situation was undeniably ufortable, and this difort needed to be resolved as soon as possible.


    After learning that this issue had been exposed, Feng Qinqin felt powerless.


    "I knew this matter wouldn¡¯t stay hidden for long. Now that Yuyu knows, she must be terribly upset."


    Even if everything seemed settled on the surface, Ji Yu was bound to keep this matter in her heart.


    Ji Yuanzhou felt deeply guilty as well. If not for the actions of the two of them, Ji Yu wouldn¡¯t have had to pay such a price.


    "Let¡¯s go check on her."


    "What¡¯s the point of the two of us going over? Right now, they¡¯re likely still talking through the situation. If we went, we¡¯d just be intruding. Yuyu wouldn¡¯t me Gu for this; she¡¯d only me herself." Feng Qinqin understood Ji Yu¡¯s temperament well.


    And Feng Qinqin wasn¡¯t mistaken.


    "The two of us had better be careful from now on. If something like this happens again, Yuyu might genuinely break down."


    This kind of situation struck right at her bottom line, leaving scars that she couldn¡¯t shake.


    "Let¡¯s just hope it doesn¡¯t affect her future surgeries." It would be awful if any psychological shadow remained.


    Feng Qinqin was genuinely worried about her condition.

 Chapter 207: Thoughts

    <h4>Chapter 207: Chapter 207: Thoughts</h4>


    Sometimes, Ji Yu is just too fixated on these matters, which is why it affects her like this.


    Gu Qixiao knew how upset Ji Yu was feeling now, so he stayed by her side whenever he had the time, afraid that something might happen to her.


    At first, Ji Yu felt a little helpless and wanted him to leave, butter she got used to it.


    "Gu Qixiao, I really won¡¯t do anything to myself. I¡¯m just feeling guilty, that¡¯s all."


    She only ever pressured herself silently.


    But Gu Qixiao felt that times like these were still very important.


    "You¡¯re pregnant right now. You must take good care of yourself. And even if someone does need to take responsibility, it should be me." From the very beginning, this matter was never Ji Yu¡¯s fault.


    His choice of this oue meant he was willing to bear the consequences.


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t know what to say in response, only thinking that Gu Qixiao was genuinely too anxious. "Why are you so nervous? Do you really think I¡¯d develop some psychological issues over this?"


    To be honest, she wasn¡¯t a Saint. Knowing about this matter naturally upset her, but she would never go down darker paths of thought.


    "If possible, I just hope their n fails, or that we can find an opportunity to help them when the timees."


    That would actually be a better oue.


    Now that things had reached this point, serious thought was indeed necessary.


    The current situation was perplexing, to say the least.


    Gu Qixiao wasn¡¯t sure what he should do either.


    He could only acknowledge that he didn¡¯t fully understand Ji Yu¡¯s state of mind.


    "Yu, whatever you¡¯re thinking, you can tell me. I¡¯ll always be here to protect you, so you canpletely pin these matters on me." He was willing to help Ji Yu bear this burden.


    Ji Yu found his serious demeanor amusing. "Don¡¯t you think this is all a bit inappropriate?"


    She wasn¡¯t sure what else to say, just knowing that these matters were genuinely difficult to put into words.


    "But it might make you feel better."


    "If I pin everything on you, I might just leave you behind. I don¡¯t think I could face someone like that." She said this with a smile in her eyes, as if she were truly joking.


    But Gu Qixiao couldn¡¯t take the joke.


    When Gu Qixiao fell silent, Ji Yu instantly understood.


    "You, huh. It¡¯s like you can handle everything, but you always falter on matters like this." Ji Yu couldn¡¯t help but want tough.


    In truth, Ji Yu could never me him for these things, so she was only joking.


    Hearing her words, Gu Qixiao smiled somewhat helplessly. "Yu, you should know what I think. I can lose a lot of things, but if I lose you, I can¡¯t ept it."


    How could he give up on someone he¡¯d been so persistent about for so long?


    "I originally wanted to take you home to meet my parents, but considering the child, I think we should wait a little longer." He didn¡¯t want to risk being misunderstood by his parents.


    Actually, Ji Yu wanted to say there was no way they would misunderstand.


    After all, they had known her longer than he had.


    But this wasn¡¯t something Ji Yu felt she couldment on.


    "I¡¯m fine." She just needed a good rest.


    Gu Qixiao stayed by her side, trying to feel what Ji Yu was going through. Sometimes he truly wished he could take her ce and bear it all for her.


    Life had been rtively peaceful, and the child in Ji Yu¡¯s belly was calm too, but some people just couldn¡¯t behave themselves.


    The moment Ji Yu saw Li Yu, she knew that something was wrong with that man¡¯s face.


    "The surgery I performed was wless. I didn¡¯t meddle with anything." She disdained doing such things.


    But Li Yu didn¡¯t believe her at all. "If you didn¡¯t tamper with anything, why is his face like this?"


    He brought the man in front of Ji Yu, trying to get an exnation out of her.


    This time, his n was a total failure. Even if he tried againter, it would be difficult.


    Looking at the situation, Ji Yu wasn¡¯t surprised. "Why don¡¯t you ask him what he did to himself? Whye to me for trouble? I take surgery very seriously, and your own face is the best example."


    His face had no issues; how could a simpler surgery go wrong?


    Ji Yu¡¯s words made some sense.


    Li Yu looked at the man next to him.


    The man¡¯s expression darkened. "I clearly applied the ointment ording to your instructions. How could this happen?"


    "Oh? Did you truly follow my instructions, or did you use some other product someone rmended? Do I really need to spell it out for you? If there¡¯s one thing I despise, it¡¯s situations like this."


    Every time Ji Yu performed a surgery, she would explicitly warn against disregarding her post-op care guidelines. But these people just didn¡¯t listen.


    That said, the situation might actually be a blessing in disguise for Ji Yu.


    "Given the state you¡¯re in, don¡¯te ming me. Don¡¯t bring absurd matters like this to me again."


    She spoke with utterposure.


    What was left for Li Yu to misunderstand?


    Veins were bulging on his forehead in anger.


    Clearly, he could barely hold it together.


    But Ji Yu essentially ignored things like this.


    If they insisted on digging their own grave, why should she bother? Why put herself at unnecessary risk?


    After learning that their n had failed, Ji Yu suddenly felt that her heart no longer needed to harbor that pent-up frustration.


    "Do you all find this fun?" She smiled at the scene before her, finding it entirely meaningless.


    "Please, just fix his face." No matter what, he still wanted to try again. If it didn¡¯t work, he¡¯d deal with it then, but for now, the face had to be preserved.


    He was clear about what needed to be done next.


    Ji Yu found the whole thing amusing. "Didn¡¯t you ask about my principles beforeing to me? I don¡¯t fix situations like this. And besides, if you¡¯ve already used the wrong things, don¡¯te here asking for trouble. I don¡¯t clean up other people¡¯s messes."


    The only exception she¡¯d ever made had been for Gu Qixiao.


    Li Yu knew that Ji Yu had always been a person of principle, which was precisely why she was so stubborn in situations like this. He found it increasingly frustrating, unsure how to smoothly deal with the matter.


    "Ji Yu, consider this a favor I¡¯m asking you. In the future, whatever you need from me, I¡¯ll agree. But this face, we still need it. You must fix it."

 Chapter 208: A Matter of Face

    <h4>Chapter 208: Chapter 208: A Matter of Face</h4>


    Ji Yu had no interest in such matters. "To be honest, there¡¯s nothing I really want. I have everything I need."


    Whatever she pursued seemed to go smoothly for her.


    So, this kind of proposal truly didn¡¯t tempt Ji Yu.


    Hearing this, Li Yu understood that it would likely be even harder to get Ji Yu¡¯s help in the future.


    The most crucial thing was that theirst encounter had practically turned them into enemies.


    "Ji Yu, you can name your own terms. I promise I have no ulterior motives. You have to trust me." He appeared very earnest.


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t know how to respond to him.


    "Instead of wasting time here, you¡¯d be better off finding another doctor. Maybe they can handle this. My pregnancy is already advanced, so I can¡¯t do this kind of thing."


    After all, she had to consider the child in her womb.


    When she mentioned the child, he finally seemed to realize something.


    His gaze toward Ji Yu became more determined.


    "Do you think I¡¯ll give up so easily?" Giving up on something like this is truly difficult for anyone.


    His words left Ji Yu unsure how to respond.


    "I won¡¯t let go of this chance. If something happens to those around you..."


    "Do you think you¡¯ll get that chance?" Gu Qixiao stepped forward and pulled Ji Yu into his arms, clearly anticipating this kind of situation. He knew this was par for the course for them.


    "If you want to cause trouble for Yu, shouldn¡¯t you ask me first?" There was no way he¡¯d allow the person he cared about to be bullied at a time like this.


    Li Yu knew that dealing with Gu Qixiao wouldn¡¯t be easy.


    The tug-of-war with Gu Qixiao had previously been possible because Ji Yu was under their control. But now that she was here, continuing the tussle would be far more difficult.


    "That¡¯s not what I meant. I only hope Ji Yu will agree to this matter. It¡¯s a trivial task for her, but it¡¯s extremely important to us."


    They didn¡¯t even know how long they had been preparing for this. If it fell apart now, it¡¯d be hard for them to recover.


    Ji Yu listened to their words and felt it wasughable rather than offensive. "Honestly, when you decided to bring this up, shouldn¡¯t you have considered these factors? Why pursue something like this?"


    She resented such matters deeply. It was like what she¡¯d said to Li Yu before: these were things that needed people without any conscience to do.


    "You ought to know my limits very well. This is something that other doctors can handle, soing to me doesn¡¯t serve any purpose."


    Li Yu simply thought Ji Yu¡¯s skills would be more trustworthy, knowing that no other doctor could achieve the same natural results. In situations like this, naturalness mattered most.


    "Ji Yu, I don¡¯t want to bother anyone else with such matters. I just need you to help. I believe you¡¯ll do a perfect job."


    He could offer money.


    But he wouldn¡¯t ask for anything more.


    Ji Yu looked at him coldly. "No need. I have no interest in your money. This matter holds no value for me."


    She had already given up on discussing anything more with Li Yu. Didn¡¯t he think his demands were over the line?


    "Your request is entirely unnecessary. These kinds of things are what I despise the most. From my perspective, what you¡¯re proposing ispletely unfeasible."


    She desperately needed some time to rest.


    And besides, her prior surgery had left a psychological scar. If she had to perform another, she wasn¡¯t sure she could even pick up the scalpel again.


    For a moment, the atmosphere fell into a deadlock.


    But Li Yu already knew this was most likely not going to happen.


    So he had no choice but to leave.


    "Ji Yu, if you ever decide to cooperate with us, I¡¯ll dly wee you at any time." People with her skills were exceptionally rare.


    Even now, he still wanted to win Ji Yu over.


    Ji Yu maintained her calm demeanor toward the matter.


    "You don¡¯t need to wee me." She had no interest in such things.


    She just needed some time to quietly collect herself.


    Things had reached a point where whatever Ji Yu said didn¡¯t matter much to Li Yu anymore.


    He had done everything he could.


    Watching Li Yu walk away, Gu Qixiao couldn¡¯t help but feel uneasy.


    "Yu, he¡¯ll definitelye back again. Why don¡¯t you move in with me? I can take care of you then."


    Ji Yu naturally rejected the idea. If she really moved in, what would that make their rtionship?


    So Ji Yu still refused.


    "I don¡¯t want to go to your house."


    "Then I can move over instead." He genuinely worried about Ji Yu¡¯s condition. Her emotions had already been unstable for a while, and he¡¯d been deeply concerned.


    Now, with Li Yu employing such tactics, how could he possibly feel at ease? He absolutely wouldn¡¯t allow this situation to progress unchecked.


    Ji Yu felt helpless. "You don¡¯t need to worry about me like this. But honestly, I¡¯m quite relieved about this matter. Given the current situation, it looks like there¡¯s no way their ns will seed."


    Those people weren¡¯t fools. How could they fail to recognize such things?


    So Ji Yu also felt a sense of relief. As long as no harm was involved, the surgery this time wasn¡¯t really a big deal.


    "This matter had nothing to do with you originally." He knew Ji Yu took exceptional care of her friends, but no matter what, this wasn¡¯t her fault.


    "I¡¯ve already looked into it. This family has found issues with him. Even if they try to fix itter, it likely won¡¯t work anymore."


    Ji Yu chuckled. "Maybe their n was wed from the start."


    And they were far too impatient. Something like this shouldn¡¯t be rushed, and their actions naturally raised suspicions.


    In situations like this, theirck of patience showed.


    Seeing that Ji Yu¡¯s mood had significantly improved, Gu Qixiao finally rxed. "Thank goodness you¡¯re okay."


    If anything had truly happened, he¡¯d regret it for the rest of his life.


    Luckily, there were no issues now.


    Ji Yu couldn¡¯t help butugh. "You¡¯re just too nervous. And why were you sneaking around to check on that family¡¯s situation?"


    Gu Qixiao had been prepared to break his promises to resolve the issue if needed. But he hadn¡¯t expected the family to uncover the problem themselves¡ªof course, it was also the result of their own actions.

 Chapter 209: Thoughts and Longings

    <h4>Chapter 209: Chapter 209: Thoughts and Longings</h4>


    "I know you care about this, so I¡¯ll naturally pay more attention. No matter what it is, as long as you care about it, I¡¯ll definitely focus on it a bit more."


    She knew very well that Gu Qixiao genuinely cared about her matters.


    "You should pay some attention to your own matters as well. I heard that something happened to Song Xuan recently?"


    "Yes." He didn¡¯t feel much about Song Xuan¡¯s situation¡ªprimarily, it was because she often caused trouble before.


    "I took care of her in the past out of respect for her brother, and now I¡¯ve helped her fix her face and even assisted her with many things. But for her to treat me this way, even thest bit of consideration has faded."


    She understood clearly that these things shouldn¡¯t go on anymore.


    She could handle her own issues, but with so much happening in Gu Qixiao¡¯s life, who could help him?


    "Gu Qixiao, you need to calm down and take a step back. You can¡¯t be so obsessed with my matters."


    Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t think there was anything wrong with such an approach. "You¡¯re the person I like. Doing things for you is only natural, so no matter what happens, I¡¯ll always stand by your side."


    His thoughts were crystal clear.


    Ji Yu actually hoped he could focus on living his own life.


    "No matter what Song Xuan has done, she¡¯s still the sister of someone who saved your life. You should protect her regardless. Please don¡¯t act this way."


    She had no particr opinion about Song Xuan¡¯s situation.


    It was precisely because she knew Song Xuan posed no threat to her that she could act this way.


    "Yu, aren¡¯t you afraid that something might actually happen between the two of us someday?"


    "What¡¯s mine, no one can take away. What¡¯s not mine, there¡¯s no point forcing it, no matter what I do." She wasn¡¯t willing to force these kinds of things.


    At the very least, from the current situation, she could still hold her ground.


    Hearing this, Gu Qixiao felt a hint of helplessness. "You should, at least once in a while, show me that you care. That way, I¡¯d do absolutely anything for you."


    All he wanted was for Ji Yu to show she cared about him a little. If she did, he¡¯d be willing to do anything.


    Ji Yu couldn¡¯t help butugh at his words. "If I show that I care about you, I can exploit you? Can¡¯t I already do that now?"


    Come to think of it, that made sense.


    Gu Qixiao even started to reflect¡ªhad he really gone too far? Was that why he had these thoughts about Ji Yu?


    "Did I really overdo it?"


    "You put too much importance on my matters. If, in the end, we two can¡¯t end up together, you¡¯ll be the one who gets hurt the most." She didn¡¯t mention that, deep down, she also cared; after all, this kind of thing would undoubtedly be painful.


    "We will absolutely end up together."


    He spoke with unwavering determination.


    He had already decided long ago that no matter how difficult the road ahead, he would never give up on Ji Yu.


    "I know you¡¯ve been abandoned before, so this is something you care about deeply. But I¡¯ll never treat you like your ex-husband did."


    At first, Ji Yu didn¡¯t think much of it, but toward the end of his statement, she almost couldn¡¯t keep herposure.


    While Gu Qixiao¡¯s words were meant to be reassuring, the mention of her ex-husband did catch her off guard.


    Their rtionship really wasplicated.


    Gu Qixiao simply believed that her ex-husband had deeply hurt Ji Yu, which was why she had such emotions. "Yu, what¡¯s wrong with you?"


    "Nothing, I probably just need some sleep." She could only admit that the situation was too awkward¡ªshe feared that if she stayed any longer, she might burst outughing.


    Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t overthink it, assuming that Ji Yu was just tired, so he handled the situation with care. "I¡¯ll join you for some rest, then."


    "No need, I¡¯ll rest on my own." Right now, she couldn¡¯t even look Gu Qixiao in the eye.


    Didn¡¯t Gu Qixiao have any curiosity or interest in digging up what had happened between the two of them?


    It seemed that Gu Qixiao was overly na?ve, which made himpletely let his guard down in such matters.


    Gu Qixiao simply assumed Ji Yu had something on her mind, so he left to give her some space.


    After returning to her room, Ji Yu immediately started discussing with Feng Qinqin whether she should rify the whole thing to Gu Qixiao. Otherwise, wouldn¡¯t this just get more awkward?


    "I feel like I¡¯m dying of awkwardness whenever I see Gu Qixiao now. I can¡¯t believe he¡¯s actually never looked into my past, not even once."


    She rubbed her forehead in frustration.


    Feng Qinqin wasughing so hard she was almost crowing. She¡¯d mentioned before how sharp Gu Qixiao was in business matters but how mindlessly foolish he was about Ji Yu¡¯s situation.


    "Yuyu, your story with him is truly fascinating¡ªround and round you¡¯ve gone, only to end up together. But it¡¯s absolutely hrious that he has no idea about this matter."


    This could practically be turned into a drama series.


    "When he mentioned today that he wouldn¡¯t treat me like my ex-husband, my emotions at that moment were truly a mix of feelings."


    To think they previously admired Gu Qixiao¡¯s persistence in dealing with this matter, but now it seemed quite funny in hindsight.


    "Before, I thought Gu Qixiao might be scheming and intentionally toying with you. Turns out, we were overthinking it. He¡¯s really, genuinely into you."


    She¡¯d actually noticed it long ago, especially this time around. Watching Gu Qixiao running around everywhere, his focus solely on Ji Yu¡¯s safety while disregarding everything else, made it obvious he¡¯d never let Ji Yu go again.


    "It¡¯s a good thing that the two of you are finally together, but maybe it¡¯s better not to bring up the topic directly¡ªotherwise, wouldn¡¯t it just get even more awkward?"


    Gu Qixiao had badmouthed her ex-husband quite a few times already. If he found out that ex-husband was actually himself, who knew how awkward things would get?


    "But we can¡¯t just keep it hidden forever either. Gu Qixiao¡¯s already nning to take me home to meet his parents. Uncle Gu wouldn¡¯t possibly fail to recognize me this quickly, right?"


    No matter how you looked at it, the whole situation was strange.


    Hearing this, Feng Qinqin became even more certain¡ªGu Qixiao was head over heels for Ji Yu. Still, his actions in the past truly had been terrible.


    "You two really share a bond wrought of fate, tangled in love and suffering. I don¡¯t even know what to say. But you should think carefully before bringing it up."


    If something went wrong, things wouldn¡¯t end well.


    "From what I can see, the two of you are in love with each other now. Since that¡¯s the case, don¡¯t overthink it. Just focus on being happy together. I¡¯m sure that¡¯s what both of you want, too."


    She hoped Ji Yu and Gu Qixiao could both be happy. After all, it had taken so much effort for them to get to where they were. Some things simply had to be held onto.


    "He treats you very well, so I¡¯ll let go of my past grudges. You two should get along and make sure nothing goes wrong." She hoped Ji Yu could find happiness. After all, Ji Yu and Gu Qixiao loved each other, and now they even had a child together.

 Chapter 210 No Doubt

    <h4>Chapter 210: Chapter 210 No Doubt</h4>


    Everyone thought Gu Qixiao must be a deeply calcting person, but it turns out, no matter how cunning someone is, once they meet the person they love, they be a fool¡ªunable to tap into their wits no matter what happens.


    She watched Ji Yu and Gu Qixiao walk through everything step by step, and by now, she sincerely believed in Gu Qixiao¡¯s feelings.


    "If this is really weighing on your heart, perhaps the two of you should talk about it sooner rather thanter. I believe Gu Qixiao would be happy."


    In the end, after all the twists and turns, they still ended up with each other¡ªsuch a thing feels somewhat gratifying.


    Ji Yu hesitated, "Let¡¯s talk about itter. Maybe when the baby is born, I¡¯ll be able to calmly bring up these matters."


    It seemed these things were truly hard to predict easily.


    Anyone would remember just how difficult this all must be.


    She tried hard to keep things from getting tooplicated.


    When she saw Gu Qixiao again, she couldn¡¯t help but feel conflicted.


    After all, once such things are spoken, they¡¯re hard to take back.


    "Yu, is there something you want to say to me?"


    He was extremely sensitive to the changes in Ji Yu¡¯s expressions.


    Today, her unusual demeanor stood out sharply to him.


    "Nothing, maybe it¡¯s just the pregnancy making me overthink." She had to admit that part of it was due to the pregnancy.


    Gu Qixiao was deeply concerned about her health.


    "If having this child ends up being a burden to your body, then I¡¯d rather not have the child."


    Ji Yu never thought he would say something like that.


    "Gu Qixiao, do you know what you¡¯re saying?"


    This was their child, and it had already been four months¡ªcould they truly just let this child go?


    "If you don¡¯t want this child, then I don¡¯t need you as the child¡¯s father either."


    She had done extensive soul-searching before deciding to keep this child. She wanted to give the baby aplete family and ensure it would be happy.


    She had been so lonely during her own childhood and didn¡¯t want her child to go through the same thing.


    That kind of pain was far too harrowing to bear.


    "That¡¯s not what I meant. I¡¯m just worried the child might harm your health." He knew Ji Yu cared deeply about the baby.


    What he wanted to express was simply that no matter what happened next, his priority would always be Ji Yu.


    The child could neverpare to her.


    "This baby is optional for me. If you have this child, it will be a pleasant surprise. If you decide not to have the child, you¡¯ll still be the woman I love."


    He¡¯d never felt conflicted about this matter in his heart.


    From the very beginning, when he chose to pursue Ji Yu, he hadn¡¯t even been sure this child was his.


    For a moment, Ji Yu didn¡¯t know what to say to him.


    "Why is it that sometimes you appear so emotionally rich, yet at other times so cold and indifferent?" She suddenly felt like she couldn¡¯t understand him.


    Perhaps the way he behaved was too perplexing.


    She couldn¡¯t wrap her head around why his attitude toward the child was like this.


    "To be honest, I want this baby to be the happiest person in the world. Because I¡¯ve endured every kind of misfortune, I hope they can be joyful and carefree."


    She didn¡¯t want the misfortunes she had faced in the past to befall her child.


    Now that things had reached this point, there wasn¡¯t much else to say.


    "I¡¯m trying so hard to protect my child, yet you say things like this¡ªit really breaks my heart." Their dynamic shouldn¡¯t be like this.


    Especially considering that the child would need a father¡¯s love in the future.


    "Though I¡¯m living happily now, this baby is my first true family member." She deeply cherished the bond of blood that now connected them.


    It felt like, for the first time in her life, she wasn¡¯t utterly alone and finally had a thread of connection to hold onto.


    This kind of feeling was indeed incredibly precious, and the child had given her a sense of belonging she had never experienced before.


    "I¡¯m working so hard to give my baby happiness, but you say these things¡ªdo you really think you¡¯re right in doing so?" Now, she didn¡¯t want to dwell on other matters; she simply wanted to understand where this child stood in his heart.


    "Yu, you¡¯re misunderstanding me." His expression showed a trace of helplessness.


    "I know you might think I don¡¯t care about the baby, but I care deeply. It¡¯s just that, in front of you, nothing else could evere first." Gu Qixiao had never considered abandoning the child, but if the baby ever shed with Ji Yu, the child would always be the one given up.


    His reasoning was simple.


    To him, the most precious thing could only be one person.


    Everything else, no matter how valuable, was merely an enhancement to that treasure.


    The child was a wonderful surprise for them but definitely not an essential one.


    "I hope you understand that in my heart, no one could ever be more important than you."


    Ji Yu suddenly felt like he might be a little too ¡¯love-struck.¡¯


    "Don¡¯t you think there¡¯s something wrong with the way you¡¯re acting right now? If I were to mistreat you in the future, would you still choose this way?"


    Such things naturally led people to think like this.


    After all, it hadn¡¯t been long since the two of them first met.


    How could feelings possibly run so deep?


    "Yu, you might not fully understand my thoughts, but for me, you¡¯re unquestionably the most important thing. Whether it¡¯s being love-struck or irrational, I just want to care for the one person I love."


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t even know how to argue with him.


    He seemed entirely obsessed with this idea.


    "Aren¡¯t you afraid there¡¯ll be no oue for us?" Such things are quitemon. After all, in this day and age, it¡¯s so easy for couples to face conflicts and break up.


    "I won¡¯t fear you leaving me." Because, if that happened, he¡¯d find a way to win her back.


    "From the very beginning, didn¡¯t you keep rejecting me? Yet now, we¡¯re still together, aren¡¯t we? That proves my methods work."


    He had tried countless times before¡ªwhy not just one more?


    "I just wanted to tell you I care about you." Some things needed to be said aloud, or else they¡¯d just remain bottled up inside where no one could see them.


    Ji Yu looked at him and couldn¡¯t help but feel exasperated.


    "What¡¯s this attitude?" Could being so love-struck truly change someone this much?


    She hadn¡¯t forgotten, Gu Qixiao had seemed so clear-headed in the beginning.


    Now he¡¯d suddenly turned into someone else, leaving her feeling it was all a bit unnatural. His attitude was also bing somewhat overwhelming.


    "You don¡¯t need to feel pressured. Everything I¡¯m doing, I¡¯m doing willingly for you."

 Chapter 211 Willingly Giving

    <h4>Chapter 211: Chapter 211 Willingly Giving</h4>


    "No matter what you¡¯ve been through before, I would never let you down."


    He spoke with a very solemn expression.


    Ji Yu knew that, sooner orter, this conversation would lead to the topic of her ex-husband.


    Their rtionship was truly one of those entanglements that was hard to sever and even harder to untangle.


    But it didn¡¯t seem all that important anymore.


    Judging by his current attitude, he might even be happier once he knew about it.


    "Gu Qixiao, sometimes I honestly feel helpless. The way you act makes me feel like I owe you a lot." She was not used to feeling indebted to anyone else.


    Just like now.


    She always subconsciously believed she owed him something.


    "When have you ever owed me anything? As long as I still have a ce in your heart, then you¡¯ll never owe me." Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t care about who gave more. As long as they were still together, that¡¯s all that mattered.


    And wasn¡¯t their current situation just fine?


    He had the person he adored most, and Ji Yu could bask in his love and care.


    Ji Yu suddenly found that what he said might make some sense.


    Things were soplicated that she decided to simply stop overthinking them.


    "There¡¯s an auctioning up in a while. Do you want to check it out?" He was well aware that Ji Yu had been particrly rxed at hometely.


    Ji Yu gave it some thought. She¡¯d admittedly been lounging at home for a little too long, so after hesitating for a moment, she agreed.


    "There are going to be some spectacr jewelry pieces at this auction. If there¡¯s anything you like, I can buy it for you." He never hesitated when it came to giving gifts.


    To him, such gestures were the most natural thing to do.


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t know how to respond.


    Such actions really could leave one at a bit of a loss.


    "I can pay for the things I like myself. I have more than enough money."


    "Your money will always be yours, but my money is yours to spend as you please." Gu Qixiao prided himself on his ability to earn, so he had no qualms about spoiling her with it.


    Ji Yu once again reevaluated his shamelessly romantic nature.


    Madam Ji, upon hearing Gu Qixiao¡¯s statement, grew more and more satisfied with him.


    She had always been pleased with this son-inw, and after hearing how much he doted on Ji Yu, she was even happier.


    "Yu, you two should go out and spend more time together when you have a chance. There¡¯s not much fun just staying at home." Her matchmaking intentions were all too obvious, and Ji Yu couldn¡¯t help but massage her temples.


    "Mom, your daughter is still pregnant, you know. Do you really want me to be running around?"


    "Isn¡¯t Gu here to take care of you?" Madam Ji trusted Gu Qixiaopletely and believed he was capable of looking after Ji Yu.


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t even know how to respond to this.


    Still, Gu Qixiao had indeed seeded in fully integrating himself into her family.


    As they headed out, Ji Yu couldn¡¯t help but tease him, "Since when did you get along so well with my family?"


    "As long as I treat you well, they¡¯ll naturally find me likable. That¡¯s why our rtionship is as solid as it is." He understood this perfectly, and thus he would never disappoint her.


    "Why has your sweet talk improved so muchtely?" Ji Yu was curious if he had recently been practicing, because how could he be so skilled at this all of a sudden?


    "I actually looked up some materials and studied." He treated everything seriously, and anything concerning the person he loved the most was even more so.


    However, their conversation was soon interrupted by a phone call.


    "President Gu, there¡¯s a situation with Miss Song. It seems rather serious¡ªyou might want toe over and take a look." Assistant Li could only sigh at the girl in front of him.


    How could such a good-looking young woman create so much trouble?


    "I¡¯ve told you many times not to report her affairs to me. Whatever she does, just ensure her safety¡ªthat¡¯s enough."


    He had long since stopped caring about Song Xuan¡¯s issues.


    Moreover, whether or not she truly had amnesia was still an open question.


    The things she¡¯d done before remained vivid in his memory.


    "But this time, there does seem to be some risk to her life, and she¡¯s insisting on seeing you."


    Gu Qixiao raised his brow. "So, she¡¯s done pretending to have amnesia?"


    The amnesia act had failed to catch Gu Qixiao¡¯s attention entirely.


    Song Xuan understood very well that Ji Yu was the most critical factor. As long as Ji Yu was out of the picture, their rtionship would surely progress rapidly, leaving no room for distractions.


    "Xiao,e back and see me, please. I really think I¡¯m dying¡ªI don¡¯t even know what¡¯s wrong with me." She feigned a breakdown, as though she might copse any moment now.


    Ji Yu, hearing this, was quite curious about what exactly was going on.


    "Since her condition seems bad, why don¡¯t we go back and check on her?"


    To Ji Yu, someone so utterly powerless posed no threat at all, especially if they had to resort to such petty tricks.


    Gu Qixiao had been hesitating, but upon hearing her suggestion, he agreed to take her along.


    Throughout the ordeal, Ji Yu never asked what exactly had happened. In her heart, she knew it was just the other party¡¯s desperate ploy to see Gu Qixiao.


    "Gu Qixiao, there¡¯s no need to keep such a distance from her. In her eyes, you¡¯ve already be her possession. By suddenly pulling away, you¡¯re practically ensuring she¡¯ll have a meltdown."


    And wasn¡¯t that the truth? After all the time they¡¯d spent together, and the way he treated her before, she believed fate had tied them.


    Song Xuan could never have imagined that the two of them would be back together.


    "Yu, I never had any intention of keeping her by my side, and maintaining distance between us is the right thing to do."


    He felt absolutely no romantic feelings for Song Xuan. Even the sliver of sibling-like affection he once had for her had beenpletely worn away.


    This was something that could never revive.


    "There¡¯s truly no emotional connection between us."


    Gu Qixiao had always been a cold person, but he believed he¡¯d repaid her kindness sufficiently.


    "I¡¯ve given her so much, yet she remains so greedy. What more can I do?"


    He sounded exasperated and was clearly numb to the situation.


    Ji Yu suddenly found his demeanor oddly amusing.


    "What you consider inconsequential bes concrete reality in the eyes of others."


    Song Xuan had long misinterpreted their rtionship.


    "During your time together, she instinctively regarded you as her anchor, hoping to marry you and enjoy that status forever."


    People are prone to greed.


    But in her case, it was far too obvious.

 Chapter 212 Greed

    <h4>Chapter 212: Chapter 212 Greed</h4>


    "You might think what I¡¯m saying is overly absolute, but I assure you, that¡¯s exactly what she¡¯s thinking."


    No one can refuse a temptation like that, not even if he¡¯s already explicitly made his rejection clear.


    Gu Qixiao suddenly didn¡¯t know what to say.


    Perhaps situations like this were indeed a little perplexing.


    By the time the two of them arrived at the vi, Song Xuan was inplete disarray.


    She was visibly excited when she saw Gu Qixiao, but the moment her gaze fell on Ji Yu behind him, the smile on her face could no longer be sustained.


    "Why is she here with you? Xiao, do you seriously want her toe along too?" Song Xuan loathed Ji Yu more than anyone, so how could she not feel anything at this moment?


    "Just get to the point. The two of us have other matters to attend to; we don¡¯t have time to waste here with you." He didn¡¯t particrly like using such a tone with others.


    But he was afraid a gentler tone might lead to unnecessary misunderstandings.


    "Xiao..." She seemed to sense his current indifference.


    Her voice wavered with hesitation as she spoke.


    "Xiao, is there really nothing you want to say to me?"


    She had been waiting for this day for a very long time.


    But for some reason, he seemed to constantly be avoiding the reality of their rtionship.


    "Xiao, I don¡¯t want to marry anyone else. I only want to marry you. We¡¯ve been in each other¡¯s lives for so long. How could you ask me to let go as if it means nothing?"


    She firmly believed that the feelings between the two of them couldst a lifetime. Ji Yu was nothing more than an ident.


    "Xiao, is your eagernesstely truly because of her pregnancy? If that¡¯s the case, I could bear your children too."


    As her words grew more brazen, Gu Qixiao immediately decided he couldn¡¯t let her continue.


    "Enough! Do you even hear yourself? Do you have any idea how you¡¯reing across? You¡¯re acting like a lunatic. The nature of our rtionship has long been made crystal clear."


    There had never been anything beyond friendship between them.


    If she kept ying these games, there likely wouldn¡¯t even be a friendship left.


    "But you promised my brother you¡¯d take care of me for the rest of your life. Why are you abandoning me like this?" she cried miserably.


    She had always thought she would be the happiest person in the world. But now, everything before her was like stones smashing her dream, pieces she could never put back together.


    Suddenly, as if struck by a thought, she red venomously at Ji Yu.


    "It¡¯s all because of you. If not for you, he and I would already be together. Why did you have to appear?"


    They could have spent a lifetime in happiness together, but this woman¡¯s arrival had driven a wedge between them, making it impossible for them to be together.


    If only she were dead, how perfect that would be.


    Uncontrobly, she stretched her hands toward Ji Yu¡¯s neck, intending to strangle her.


    "Do you even see what you¡¯re doing?" Without hesitation, Gu Qixiao shielded Ji Yu behind him.


    He would never, under any circumstances, allow anyone to harm Ji Yu.


    Not to mention, the current situation was utterly insane.


    "Xiao, I didn¡¯t mean it. I don¡¯t even know what came over me. I just want you to stay by my side. I don¡¯t want you to have any ties with her anymore."


    She was desperately trying to hold on to him, but nothing seemed to be working in her favor.


    Why did such terrible things have to happen in the world? And why did all of them have to happen to her?


    "What you¡¯ve done has utterly disappointed me. I don¡¯t even want tomunicate with you anymore."


    He felt like he was on the verge of losing his mind.


    "This is thest time I¡¯ll ever deal with matters rted to you. After today, no matter what happens, I won¡¯te for you again."


    The time hade to put an end to the convoluted ties between them.


    "Xiao, what do you mean by that? Do you think I¡¯m a burden, so you¡¯re trying to cast me aside?"


    She had never, from childhood to now, experienced the warmth of family. It was Gu Qixiao¡¯s kindness that taught her the world could hold such beauty.


    But now, that kindness was about to be taken away, and how could she possibly ept that?


    Her sobbing grew even louder.


    "Xiao, you¡¯re mine. How can you leave me? You clearly promised to stay by my side forever. You even said you¡¯d take care of me. So why is it now so hard for you to even look me in the eye?"


    Ji Yu, observing her pitiful state, couldn¡¯t think of anything to say.


    "You can set your sights on someone else. He¡¯s not the only one who can bring you happiness," Ji Yu said, unsure why she was so fixated on one person.


    Clearly, there was no mutual affection between them. What was the point of holding on stubbornly? It would only end in heartbreak for everyone involved.


    "You wouldn¡¯t understand. Now that you¡¯ve won him over, of course, you feel entitled to speak that way. If you hadn¡¯t seeded with him, could you say these things with such smugness?"


    "I would never let myself suffer over a man." When it came to matters of the heart, Ji Yu had always believed in going with the flow.


    If the person she liked also liked her, they could be together. But if they didn¡¯t, why cling so stubbornly?


    This kind of humiliating desperation would only make others look down on her.


    "Do you think this tactic of yours can win back someone¡¯s heart? Once a heart changes, nothing you do can move it."


    Let alone when there had never been any real emotional foundation between them in the first ce.


    "Everything he did before was out of gratitude, but you mistook it for love. That was your mistake from the very beginning."


    They had never been on the same page to begin with.


    "Look at yourself now¡ªaren¡¯t you pathetic enough? And yet, has he spared you even a nce?"


    Gu Qixiao stood to the side, his expression helpless, but he made no move to halt Ji Yu¡¯s words.


    This was a type of attitude Song Xuan had never experienced before.


    Seeing everything in front of her, she suddenly became lost, not knowing what she could do to change the current situation.


    "Why..." She had held on for so long, yet it seemed everything was falling apart after all.


    "When ites to situations like this, there¡¯s no need to ask why. You just need to walk away." In matters of the heart, there wasn¡¯t always a "why." Sometimes, it was just a matter of not being loved.


    That they had crossed each other¡¯s paths was fate. That they couldn¡¯t walk together was simply destiny withheld.


    So why struggle endlessly over it?

 Chapter 213: Destined But Not Fated

    <h4>Chapter 213: Chapter 213: Destined But Not Fated</h4>


    "The matter between the two of you is actually very simple." Ji Yu couldn¡¯t understand what exactly she was so hung up on.


    "You just need to choose a different target, and you¡¯ll be much happier than you are now."


    Afterward, Gu Qixiao wouldn¡¯t ignore her either.


    Continuing to use this kind of tactic won¡¯t lead to a good oue.


    "Letting things develop like this won¡¯t end well for you, and what good does it do to hold onto someone using these methods?" Especially since she couldn¡¯t even hold onto him.


    Ji Yu looked at her somewhat pale face, a bit impatient. "I¡¯ve already exined things clearly. If you¡¯re determined to persist, then just pretend I said nothing."


    These kinds of things truly defy reason.


    Song Xuan didn¡¯t respond, and it was unclear if she¡¯d taken Ji Yu¡¯s words to heart.


    "What about you? Why are you willing to be with Xiao? Didn¡¯t you tell me at the beginning that you didn¡¯t like him?"


    She remembered the details of this matter very vividly.


    "What I thought back then is, of course, different from what I think now."


    Everything between the two of them ultimately depended on Gu Qixiao¡¯s efforts.


    If Gu Qixiao stopped trying, their rtionship would have ended long ago.


    "Feelings are strange like that. I won¡¯t shove sentimental clich¨¦s at you. I just want you to understand that love isn¡¯t your entire life."


    And besides, what¡¯s so bad about how things are now?


    "If I were you, I¡¯d secretly be over the moon. Look at your current life¡ªhave you ever experienced anything like this before?"


    She had gained things in this lifetime that should have been beyond her reach, but still, they were having such a heartfelt talk.


    "What you have now is enviable enough. So why envy me? Someone like you should enjoy life¡¯s pleasures instead of clinging on endlessly."


    She had reshaped her life through her brother.


    Not cherishing this kind of life would ultimately lead to being abandoned.


    And frankly, if Ji Yu were in her position, she would let Gu Qixiao go without hesitation.


    With all that money, there were countless better things to do. Even hiring a male model would be a more worthwhile use of it than this futile entanglement.


    Gu Qixiao instinctively grasped Ji Yu¡¯s underlying message.


    He couldn¡¯t help but feel resigned, though he understood she probably truly thought that way. Faced with a rtionship with no oue, she¡¯d likely give up in the end.


    "You really are exasperating sometimes." Matters like this truly require careful consideration.


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t think there was any issue here. People are inherently free¡ªif you have money, you should experience the things you¡¯ve never had the chance to before.


    "Otherwise, why not go out and ask others? Ask them what they would do with this kind of money, and you¡¯d realize just how foolish you¡¯re being right now."


    With so much money, why waste it on unproductive endeavors? Why insist on hanging yourself on one tree?


    She found this mindset utterly iprehensible.


    Song Xuan wanted to retort but didn¡¯t know where to start. Deep down, she even thought Ji Yu¡¯s words made some sense. But she¡¯d grown used to staying by Gu Qixiao¡¯s side.


    "Even you think what I¡¯m saying makes sense, so why persist in this? Who are you doing all this for?"


    Hurting her own body like this¡ªwouldn¡¯t she be the one to suffer in the end?


    Ji Yu had someone step forward to help bandage Song Xuan¡¯s wounds.


    "After this, I hope you can think things through and stop having any other ideas." Things between the two of them were already decided, so there was no need for a third person to intervene.


    Her constant instigation was frustrating for everyone.


    "But I like him." She¡¯d liked Gu Qixiao for so long¡ªhow could she just give up? All this time, she¡¯d been working so hard to move things forward with him, but nothing had worked.


    "Why should I give up now, after trying so hard for so long? Why can¡¯t you let Xiao go? To me, he¡¯s so important. But to you, he might be someone you could take or leave, right?"


    When she said this, Gu Qixiao also felt a bit uneasy inside.


    Although he¡¯d imed he didn¡¯t care whether Ji Yu had feelings for him, he couldn¡¯t help but feel unsettled now.


    "Can¡¯t you tell how I feel about him?" Ji Yu held his hand in front of everyone, wanting to make their rtionship clear.


    Some things could be understood at a nce¡ªwhy did they have to be spelled out?


    "Yes, I rejected being with him at first, but I¡¯ve changed my mind now. Is that not allowed?" She had a faint smile on her face.


    She was very aware of her current situation.


    Even if things were to happenter, they should see how it all yed out first.


    "You don¡¯t belong meddling between the two of us. And I can¡¯t tolerate situations where someone tries. If you keep interfering, I might have to take action against you." This was her final warning.


    If someone stubbornly refused to listen to reasoning, then more forceful measures might be needed to make them understand some things are beyond their reach, and some rtionships can¡¯t be inserted into.


    Song Xuan stared at her in disbelief. She never expected Ji Yu to respond so bluntly.


    "You liars! You weren¡¯t like this before. Why have you all changed your minds now? Haven¡¯t you considered my feelings at all?" She¡¯d tried so hard to approach them but still felt like an outsider in their world.


    "Since when does love make sense?" Besides, considering her feelings¡ªdid that mean giving him up to her would suffice?


    "Don¡¯t always push everything onto me." Ji Yu¡¯s smile was sweet but sharp as she looked at her. "I¡¯ve always done things ording to my own wishes. I won¡¯t force myself."


    Some things are better off disregarded.


    Song Xuan was on the verge of breaking down but had no way to refute her.


    In the end, she could only look at her with a hint of pleading. "Ji Yu, I know you¡¯re a good person. Please give him to me. After that, I promise he won¡¯t even appear in your life again. If you give him to me, we can talk about anything."


    "If you¡¯re sick, go treat your brain properly. Stop saying such brainless things in front of me." Ji Yu¡¯s patience had already run out.


    Hearing foolish words over and over would naturally irritate anyone.


    Wasn¡¯t what stood before her the exact situation now?


    "I¡¯m not someone who likes to share what¡¯s mine, nor will I hand over what¡¯s mine to anyone else." She appeared indifferent, but she never let go of Gu Qixiao¡¯s hand.

 Chapter 214 My People

    <h4>Chapter 214: Chapter 214 My People</h4>


    Gu Qixiao, for the first time, finally felt the depth of her emotions for him.


    He had always assumed that his rtionship with Ji Yu was merely about making do and getting by, but now it seemed their feelings for each other ran much deeper than he¡¯d ever imagined.


    "Yu, I swear I will never let you down," he dered earnestly in front of everyone.


    This scene was a sharp blow to Song Xuan, leaving her on the verge of copse.


    "Why..."


    Why had things turned out this way? She had been so certain of her victory, so sure that she and Gu Qixiao were destined to spend a lifetime together. Why, then, had someonee out of nowhere and stolen her ce in his heart?


    Ji Yu ignored her breakdown this time and instead asked Gu Qixiao if they could leave.


    "Let¡¯s go." Gu Qixiao hadn¡¯t intended to stay there in the first ce; the feelings between them had long since dwindled.


    Even if they continued, there would be no oue worth pursuing. Why drag it out any longer?


    As she watched their silhouettes leaving, Song Xuan let out augh filled with despair.


    "None of you care about me, so maybe I should just end it. What¡¯s the point of living? Nobody even spares me a nce anymore."


    Ji Yu and Gu Qixiao had just stepped out of the vi when they heard Assistant Li¡¯s voice.


    It turned out Song Xuan had fainted.


    In such a situation, they couldn¡¯t just ignore it, so the two of them had no choice but to go to the hospital and find out what was going on.


    The test results came back quickly.


    It turned out Song Xuan¡¯s condition was indeed poor; she couldn¡¯t take any more emotional shocks.


    "As her family members, you¡¯d best help her relieve her inner distress. In her condition, it¡¯s crucial she avoids anger and further emotional triggers," the doctor advised.


    But the only person who could truly make her happy was right there.


    Unfortunately, there was no fate left between them, and considering how outrageous Song Xuan¡¯s past actions had been, Gu Qixiao had no patience left for her.


    "If we¡¯re not here, does that mean she won¡¯t be triggered anymore?"


    That question genuinely stumped the doctor.


    "Aren¡¯t you her family members?"


    "We¡¯re just friends." Gu Qixiao had been more than generous to Song Xuan, giving her a wealthy life, yet he couldn¡¯t understand why she insisted on causing such a ruckus.


    The two of them decided not to intervene further; as long as she wasn¡¯t provoked, the rest should resolve itself.


    But no one could have anticipated what happened next¡ªsomeone leaked the situation online.


    [She¡¯s his lifesaver¡¯s sister, yet Gu Qixiao is so heartless.]


    [Yeah, he didn¡¯t even bother to offer her any care.]


    [He owes her brother his life¡ªhow can he behave like this?]


    Most of the inte felt Gu Qixiao was cold and cruel, treating his benefactor¡¯s sibling so callously. They spected he wasn¡¯t a good person and wouldn¡¯t be in the future either.


    When Ji Yu saw the posts, she instantly figured out who had leaked them.


    Song Xuan really had a knack for digging her own grave.


    "Hong, take these posts down first." The fact that Song Xuan could say such things suggested she was motivated more by hatred now than affection.


    "Sister Yu, even if the posts are removed, people will have screenshots by now. It might be better to offer an exnation first."


    But things like this often only ended up fueling the fire.


    People had already made up their minds; they weren¡¯t going to care about the truth.


    "We¡¯ll deal with itter¡ªjust take them down first."


    They couldn¡¯t keep letting them spread, reaching more people with every passing moment.


    Before Hong could manage to remove all the posts, Gu Qixiao posted a statement.


    [I don¡¯t believe I haven¡¯t done enough. I know I owe her brother my life and not her. Does repaying a debt of gratitude mean I have to give up my happiness for the rest of my life? Is it wrong for me not to want to marry her? I¡¯ve already given her more than enough money and restored her face to normalcy. I don¡¯t know what else I¡¯m supposed to do.]


    To be frank, calling it a matter of gratitude was one way to phrase it¡ªanother was to term it as merely fulfilling the duty of a bodyguard.


    Gu Qixiao¡¯s statement also included a lengthy list of expenses.


    The total amount came to nearly fifty million.


    At that, the detractors buzzing online suddenly fell silent.


    [Maybe I should take her ce. I promise I won¡¯t make trouble, I¡¯ll just take the money and leave quietly.]


    [Gu Qixiao¡¯s rich; this must be pocket change to him.]


    [But for a regr person, this is more money than they¡¯d earn in a lifetime. She¡¯s just an ordinary woman, and all of this came thanks to Gu Qixiao.]


    [Exactly, exactly. Could I get that money instead? I swear I wouldn¡¯tin.]


    The inte, always fond of joking, couldn¡¯t resist seizing upon the absurdity of the situation.


    A woman who had gained so much benefit was now attacking her benefactor¡ªthat was bound to provoke bacsh.


    Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t want to dwell too much on the matter and resumed his routine of visiting Ji Yu in the afternoon.


    Seeing how Ji Yu handled things surprised him. "You¡¯re nning to remove all these posts?"


    Ji Yu¡¯s expression turned enigmatic.


    "I did consider doing that, but I didn¡¯t expect you to respond so quickly." Besides, this essentially meant cutting ties with Song Xuan entirely, leaving no chance for reconciliation.


    "The gratitude I can offer is in material things and money. She¡¯s living off my money and residing in the house I gave her, yet she still turns around to bite me? Naturally, I won¡¯t treat her kindly."


    Gu Qixiao was principled in other matters, but when it came to Ji Yu, he would bend his boundaries.


    It was Ji Yu¡¯s first time seeing him so serious and cold, as if Song Xuan were nothing more than a stranger with no connection to him.


    "You always manage to reveal sides of yourself that surprise me."


    "Don¡¯t worry, that side of me will never be directed at you." He knew his feelings for her were so irrational, so overwhelming that it was impossible for him to treat her with anything less than tenderness.


    In truth, Ji Yu didn¡¯t quite want him to lose himself in his obsession with her.


    "You don¡¯t need to modify your boundaries for me. I know you¡¯re someone with principles, so it¡¯s perfect just the way you are."


    After all, in a rtionship, one side shouldn¡¯t constantly be adjusting their limits. Problems between them should be open conversations, not quietly altered boundaries.


    "Then, will you go meet my parents with me now?"


    When he said this, Ji Yu nearly agreed without thinking, but fortunately, her rationality stopped her just in time.


    She looked at him with some puzzlement¡ªwhat did meeting the parents have to do with boundaries?


    "We¡¯ll meet them sooner orter, just not right now."

 Chapter 215: Wanting a Title

    <h4>Chapter 215: Chapter 215: Wanting a Title</h4>


    "I want an official title." Gu Qixiao looked at her with utmost seriousness, without a hint of joking.


    It hadn¡¯t been easy for the two of them to end up together in the first ce.


    Now, he was feeling a bit insecure.


    This was the first time Ji Yu had heard such an absurd notion. Shouldn¡¯t *she* be the one feeling insecure?


    "How can you feel insecure about something like this? We¡¯ve been together for so long. Don¡¯t you trust me by now?"


    "I trust you." But there were some things that were better settled¡ªthis way, they could both feel at ease.


    Ji Yu still needed some mental preparation for this, so she rejected him without hesitation.


    "Just wait a bit longer. Once I¡¯ve thought it through, I¡¯ll definitely go with you to meet the parents. But not now."


    Gu Qixiao had always been curious about what she truly thought, why she would have such concerns.


    Was there something between them that couldn¡¯t be discussed?


    But seeing how troubled she looked, he couldn¡¯t bring himself to push her further.


    "I can wait for the day when you¡¯re fully willing. No matter how long it takes, I¡¯m willing to wait for you."


    To him, something like this was never a big deal.


    "Actually, there¡¯s no need to be so insistent. Whether we take that step or not makes no real difference."


    She had understood from the very beginning that their rtionship was somewhatplicated.


    In fact, she really wanted to say it outright.


    But it seemed like bringing it up would make things awkward between them. Perhaps it was better to wait a while longer.


    "Don¡¯t overthink it. Something like this is actually very normal."


    "Really?" His expression showed a trace of disbelief.


    "Of course it¡¯s true. I¡¯ve never thought of abandoning you or anything like that. We¡¯re already together, and we have a child. Why are you worrying so much?"


    She couldn¡¯t help but look exasperated.


    All things considered, their situation was indeed quiteplicated. Even if they wanted to keep things simple, it wouldn¡¯t be easy.


    "Stop fixating on meeting my parents or whatnot. You¡¯ve already met my parents, haven¡¯t you? I¡¯d never just give up on you."


    Gu Qixiao felt a bit embarrassed, too. Even he didn¡¯t know why this mattered so much to him.


    Perhaps it was only by truly being together that such feelings could be resolved.


    "Yu, I don¡¯t know if you despise me, but my feelings for you are absolutely genuine."


    He was unusually persistent about such matters. No matter how many times he had brought it up, he still showed no intention of letting it go.


    That evening, Ji Yu couldn¡¯t resist bringing it up to Feng Qinqin.


    "Doesn¡¯t this just prove he really likes you? It¡¯s such a simple matter. The two of you being together is a good thing." Qinqin said while applying a face mask. Even she knew how hard it had been for the two of them to get together.


    "I just feel like meeting him would be incredibly awkward. After all, I know Uncle Gu so well. And now, meeting him as his daughter-inw¡ªwouldn¡¯t that be awkward?"


    Any way she looked at it, such a meeting was bound to feel ufortable.


    "You¡¯re overthinking it. When the timees, you two meet, and who knows? Maybe Uncle Gu will even be delighted. After all, you two had such a good rtionship before."


    Such a situation should logically bring more joy than tension.


    "But I still feel uneasy." Especially considering she was now carrying their child¡ªthere was an unshakable feeling, as if she were leveraging the baby to bargain with them.


    "You¡¯re just overthinking it. How could anyone oppose the two of you being together? Think about Uncle Gu¡¯s attitude toward you before. Does he seem like the kind of person who¡¯d reject you?"


    With a child involved, Mr. Gu was likely to be the happiest of all.


    "Yuyu, I have to say, you really should give him a sense of security. Just like he said¡ªonly after the two of you are truly united will he feel safe."


    This time, Gu Qixiao¡¯s earnestness was beyond question.


    "At first, I didn¡¯t think you two would work out. But now, I feel like you¡¯re perfect for each other."


    Being together, they should have endless things to talk about, and they could take care of each other.


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t say anything, but she began to wonder if perhaps it was time to meet the family before addressing other matters.


    Even if it was truly awkward, there was no need to worry.


    "Stop talking about me. How¡¯s your situation with my brother? After what happenedst time, you both should know just how much you mean to each other."


    Feng Qinqin looked a little embarrassed. In truth, things between them were still quiteplicated. Getting to this point had been no small feat.


    "Recently, your brother brought up the idea of getting engaged. I¡¯m not sure if I should agree, though. After all, things between us still aren¡¯t entirely certain."


    "How could they not be? If he openly told you he loves you, it means he truly does care for you." Ji Yu knew Ji Yuanzhou¡¯s character very well.


    He wasn¡¯t the kind of person to casually toy with someone¡¯s feelings. The way he was acting now could only mean that things between them were genuine.


    "Yuyu, I¡¯m just scared. After everything I¡¯ve been through, there are so many unresolved tensions between us. I¡¯m afraid those tensions will surface again in the future."


    Her concerns werepletely understandable, given howplex things had been in the past. She was still haunted by the shadows of those experiences.


    "It¡¯s normal to have those concerns. Just let my brother keep pursuing you for now."


    Ji Yu had a great deal of patience when it came to matters like these.


    "Yuyu, I really want to forget the past and just be with him. But honestly, it¡¯s been hard for me."


    The past was like a thorn lodged in her heart. Removing it would take considerable time.


    "He needs to atone for what he¡¯s done. Only by treating you doubly well from now on will the scars from the past truly heal."


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t think there was anything wrong with this. After all, rtionships required a fair share of adjustment and growth.


    She and Gu Qixiao had gone through a simr process. Even now, some of the things Gu Qixiao had done in the past still lingered in her memory.


    "Hearing you say that, I realize how much I also care about the past." Her expression turned helpless. Perhaps such matters really were heartbreaking after all.


    "Yuyu, the two of you are doing well. You¡¯re different from us."


    At the very least, Ji Yu seemed genuinely happy now.


    "You have his wholehearted devotion, while I¡¯m still uncertain if I¡¯ll truly be able to be with him."


    "Then leave it all to time. Even if you don¡¯t get engaged right now, my parents already know about the two of you." Ji Yu wasn¡¯t in any rush to push her.

 Chapter 216: The Matter of Two People

    <h4>Chapter 216: Chapter 216: The Matter of Two People</h4>


    An engagement, naturally, requires both people to be ready to ept the pressures of living together afterward.


    So, it¡¯s reasonable to feel some resistance deep down at times.


    Ji Yu wasn¡¯t surprised that Feng Qinqin had such concerns.


    But Ji Yuanzhou was extremely anxious inside, worried that she hadn¡¯t agreed yet because of what happened before.


    "Brother, look at yourself now. If you knew this would happen, why didn¡¯t you act differently back then? You should¡¯ve openly expressed your feelings instead of letting ite to this."


    The two of them had mutual feelings back then, but they waited until now, all because he wasn¡¯t straightforward enough.


    Ji Yuanzhou also knew that what he did back then was wrong, so he was trying his best to make up for it now. But it seemed like none of it was enough.


    "I¡¯ve been doing everything I can to make up for it, but I don¡¯t know what else I can do to fix everything."


    His smile became bitter.


    He couldn¡¯t understand why things had gotten to this point.


    Ji Yu couldn¡¯t bear to watch him sink into despair any longer.


    "If you really want Qinqin to stay by your side, then just tell her boldly. Honestly, being direct about one¡¯s feelings is the most moving thing."


    Sometimes, people just need tant and unapologetic affection.


    Recently, Ji Yuanzhou had indeed been trying to express his feelings. He¡¯d actually said it, but the results felt underwhelming.


    "Do you really think Qinqin feels nothing about this? She¡¯s already deeply moved inside but hasn¡¯t voiced it. Adding in the past, she feels uncertain now. If you don¡¯t act, you¡¯ll definitely regret itter."


    Ji Yu hadn¡¯t expected Ji Yuanzhou to be so slow when it came to feelings.


    Two people who could¡¯ve directly been together had to go through so many trials just to end up where they are.


    It¡¯s unclear what kind of word games they were even ying.


    "She used to express her love so passionately. Why couldn¡¯t you just endure and show your feelings too?"


    These kinds of things definitely vary from person to person.


    So, the impact they¡¯re feeling now is genuine as well.


    Ji Yu wasn¡¯t sure what else she should say. Ultimately, the two of them needed to think things through carefully.


    If only one person keeps striving for the rtionship, it would surely be exhausting.


    "Brother, take your time and keep showing her. You know how Qinqin feels about you. Just keep trying a bit more, and she¡¯ll surelye back to you."


    Even if they couldn¡¯t be together temporarily, it was only a matter of time. Even if the opportunity isn¡¯t now, it will eventuallye.


    Ji Yuanzhou was well aware of how awful the things he¡¯d done in the past were, so now he expressed himself more clearly.


    "I¡¯ll take good care of Qinqin. She¡¯ll understand my intentions eventually and make a firm choice for me."


    Isn¡¯t that true? Love is only truly perfect when both people like each other mutually.


    No matter what happens after, as long as they can continue showing their feelings for each other, these things won¡¯t be an issue.


    Seeing Ji Yu¡¯s confident attitude about this matter, he couldn¡¯t help but smile. "I¡¯ve always been trying. It¡¯s just a matter of when Qinqin will truly forgive me."


    He felt immense guilt for what happened in the past. Just being able to be with Feng Qinqin now was already incredibly rare.


    However, Ji Yu didn¡¯t know what direction the two of them would ultimately take, only hoping they wouldn¡¯t let each other down. Some feelings were like this¡ªthey required mutual care so they could progress smoothly.


    Ji Yu initially wanted to keep talking, but then she noticed a message from Tian on her phone.


    Her brows furrowed tightly, clearly unhappy with the situation. "Brother, think things over yourself for now. I have to go check on something. Something¡¯se up, so I can¡¯t stay at home."


    He knew very well how much Ji Yu cared about Tian.


    But she was still pregnant, and going at this time seemed too dangerous. "I¡¯ll go with you."


    He couldn¡¯t let Ji Yu take the risk alone.


    Ji Yu hesitated for a moment but eventually agreed. "Alright, but brother, be careful. Sometimes, these people arepletely unreasonable. Even if I go, it may not get resolved immediately."


    In any case, this matter required further consideration.


    When the two of them arrived at the hospital with Tian, they saw the scene was a bit chaotic.


    Some were spectating, while others were blocking the troublemakers.


    Ji Yu immediately noticed the bright red p mark on Tian¡¯s face, and her expression darkened.


    "What on earth are you all doing?"


    Seeing Ji Yu, Tian let out a sigh of relief. "Sister Yu, they came looking for trouble, iming we ruined her grandson¡¯s face with surgery, but we don¡¯t even know who her grandson is."


    The incident was naturally quite awkward, and no one knew how to resolve it. All they could do was block these troublemakers from escting things further.


    The elderly woman causing the trouble clearly wasn¡¯t easy to deal with. When she saw Ji Yu arrive, she guessed Ji Yu was someone in charge here and behaved even more arrogantly.


    "You people ruined my grandson¡¯s face! Do you still expect to keep this hospital running? Dream on!"


    She looked extremely angry, very upset about the situation.


    Ji Yu raised an eyebrow. She was already ustomed to dealing with such situations¡ªafter all, many had caused trouble like this in the past, often just to get somepensation money.


    She wasn¡¯t the first to cause a scene like this, but there was no way she¡¯d seed so easily.


    "Since you im our hospital ruined your grandson¡¯s face, shouldn¡¯t you bring your grandson here to prove it?"


    Everything required evidence, and her behavior¡ªhitting others without evidence¡ªwas clearly uneptable.


    Ji Yu wasn¡¯t soft on dealing with such unreasonable elderly people.


    "If you don¡¯t bring anyone over, we¡¯ll call the police. The police can thoroughly investigate this matter, clear your name if needed, and reassure us as well."


    Upon hearing the mention of calling the police, the elderly woman instantly panicked and threw herself onto the ground.


    "Oh no, they¡¯re bullying an old woman! How could anyone be so cruel? You ruined my grandson¡¯s face, and now you¡¯re acting all arrogant!"


    She wailed dramatically, as if heartbroken, but not a single tear came from her eyes.


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t bother watching her continue the performance. Using this approach was inappropriate to begin with. "Call the police."

 Chapter 217: Report to the Police

    <h4>Chapter 217: Chapter 217: Report to the Police</h4>


    Perhaps it was her impermeable demeanor that frightened people.


    The elderly woman cried even more miserably, as if they really had done something.


    Plenty of people watched on, curious to see what was really happening.


    Ji Yu had no intention of giving in to the olddy.


    "I¡¯m an old woman, yet you dare to treat me like this."


    Ji Yu looked at her graying hair, remaining indifferent to her words.


    "You¡¯re an elderly person, and I¡¯m a pregnant woman. Let¡¯s not use each other since both elderly and pregnant women have their vulnerabilities." Ji Yu didn¡¯t want to sound too harsh, but the olddy¡¯s tantrum seemed to be a demand forpensation.


    She turned to Tian by her side to inquire about the situation.


    Tian¡¯s expression was very bitter.


    "Sister Yu, I really don¡¯t know what¡¯s going on. When she came today, she used us of ruining her grandson¡¯s face, but we haven¡¯t had such a patient here."


    Such a scenario left everyone a bit stunned, and even he had received a p.


    "She was aggressive from the start. We asked her to bring her grandson over, but she refused."


    The solution to this issue was actually quite simple: if she brought her grandson over, everything would be much easier to handle.


    After Ji Yu understood the situation, she too was rendered speechless.


    Fortunately, the police arrived quickly, also somewhat surprised by the scene.


    "What¡¯s happening here?"


    "They came to my hospital to cause trouble, using us of bullying the elderly. The surveince is right here; you can investigate anytime. We didn¡¯ty a hand on her, and we don¡¯t even know who her grandson is." Ji Yu had installed thorough surveince for such potential disturbances.


    The police understood that such elderly individuals were prone to these incidents, so they helped her up first.


    The olddy seemed afraid when she saw the police, but insisted with a tough tone that they harmed her grandson.


    "Doctor Ji, please bring out your hospital records; there might be some clues."


    Ji Yu shook her head, "This isn¡¯t about records; we don¡¯t even know who her grandson is, and our doctors have been very clear¡ªwe¡¯ve never seen her so-called grandson."


    If there were any issues, there would be records here, and judging by what she said, her grandson¡¯s condition should be very severe.


    The police were momentarily unable to figure out who was right.


    "Madam, please bring your grandson here so that we can continue the investigation; otherwise, issues are likely to arise." It was that simple.


    To take legal action, you need to have the individual in question present.


    "My grandson can¡¯t even show his face now; they¡¯re the ones who harmed him! Why don¡¯t you arrest them?"


    The olddy was still aggressive, pointing her finger at Ji Yu as if she were the culprit.


    "If that¡¯s the case, why don¡¯t you take us to your grandson? And pointing at me, did I make him this way?"


    She subtly tried to elicit more information from the old woman,


    But the old woman seemed aware there was more to this, so she didn¡¯t follow her lead.


    Unwilling to take them to see her grandson, the situation was indeed awkward now.


    The police couldn¡¯t understand her behavior either, and without seeing her grandson, it was hard to determine who was in the wrong.


    "If you don¡¯t let us see your grandson, we can¡¯t resolve this, and you might be charged for causing a disturbance."


    Ji Yu wasn¡¯t worried about the progression of this case, and the other party¡¯s guilty demeanor indicated there was an issue.


    The fact that this olddy was willing to go to such lengths was unbelievable.


    Perhaps the olddy was a bit frightened too.


    "Fine, you cane with me, but you can¡¯t take pictures of my grandson¡¯s face. He¡¯s feeling very down right now."


    There really was such a grandson.


    Ji Yu prepared to follow them to take a look.


    Ji Yuanzhou wasn¡¯t at ease, sensing something was amiss, especially since the old woman had been suspicious from the start.


    "Don¡¯t worry, brother, I¡¯ll be with the police so there shouldn¡¯t be any issues." Ji Yu knew he was worried, but in this situation, it was best he didn¡¯t get involved.


    "The police will ensure my safety."


    She understood now not to ce too much trust in someone at times.


    They followed the olddy back to her home.


    However, her home was eerily quiet, looking empty.


    "Are you sure your grandson is here?" Ji Yu had already prepared for any surprises, ready to let others handle the situation if something happened.


    The olddy¡¯s expression turned very peculiar.


    "Of course he¡¯s here. Once inside, you¡¯ll see him; his face was ruined by you."


    She didn¡¯t seem fine.


    Ji Yu, having some understanding of such matters, was curious about what was truly going on upon seeing her expression.


    "Why don¡¯t you just say who sent you here? I don¡¯t want to waste time. The police are here, my people are outside; you¡¯re not going to seed." She was tired of ying games.


    The olddy¡¯s expression shifted, surprised by her candor.


    "How did you know there was an ambush here?"


    "Isn¡¯t it obvious? Your expression already gave you away." From the start, her behavior was odd, and now everything was justid out in the open.


    If there was an issue from the beginning, it would be better to address it now rather than make things awkward.


    "I never believed you, so it was only wise to be prepared, wasn¡¯t it?" She spoke without regret.


    The olddy¡¯s face looked grim, clearly caught off guard by the situation.


    "Even if you want to kidnap me, you should assess your capabilities first. Plus, the police are already here. Do you think you can continue this?"


    The police were also surprised by this development, momentarily speechless.


    The olddy waved her hand, signaling others inside toe out and seize people.


    At this point, they had no choice but to try and capture Ji Yu.


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t understand where she got the confidence to act at such a moment.


    The bodyguards also received the message and rushed in immediately.


    "Stop!"

 Chapter 218: Call to Stop

    <h4>Chapter 218: Chapter 218: Call to Stop</h4>


    Hearing someone call out to stop, Ji Yu looked over curiously.


    "Why is it you?" Ji Yu stared at Li Yu in exasperation, baffled about what was going on. Could he actually be trying to kidnap her?


    "It¡¯s just a misunderstanding, there¡¯s no need to blow this out of proportion. Besides, I invited you here because there¡¯s something I need to discuss with you," Li Yu said candidly about the situation.


    He knew Ji Yu was a capable person, so he wasn¡¯t particrly surprised by how things turned out.


    The police officers on-site, seeing the situation, were momentarily unsure about what to do next.


    "Do you two know each other?"


    Ji Yu realized that certain things could only be discussed privately between them; involving the police wasn¡¯t an option.


    "Sorry to trouble you all today. This is just a misunderstanding; I¡¯ve figured it out now. My friend invited me here to discuss something¡ªit was idental, that¡¯s all."


    The police officers, seeing this exnation, could only back off for now.


    With the two seeming acquainted and no signs of a physical altercation, they could only retreat for the moment.


    Ji Yu stared at Li Yu, curious about what exactly he wanted from her.


    "Going through all this trouble to get me here¡ªdon¡¯t tell me you just wanted to see me?" With so many people around her, she naturally wasn¡¯t afraid of whatever move he might try to make next.


    "I just want to discuss the next steps with you."


    "If this is still about what you brought upst time, then there¡¯s nothing to discuss between us. I already told you I won¡¯t agree to it." Since the matter was already in the past, it had nothing to do with her anymore.


    "It seems Doctor Ji isn¡¯t interested in cooperating with me. In that case, I might have to target the people around you. You know how capable I am¡ªyou can¡¯t protect everyone," he said, abandoning subtlety and resorting to outright threats.


    Ji Yu despised anyone who would threaten the people around her.


    "What do you mean?" Such tactics only made her dislike him more.


    "My meaning is simple. Haven¡¯t you figured out my intentions? I just want to have a good talk with you, or you could simply agree to my proposal right now." How could something so straightforward beplicated?


    "Your words are meaningless; I¡¯ve already said I won¡¯t do anything that crosses my moral boundaries." Ji Yu had resisted the idea from the start, and yet he insisted on pushing forward. It was clear their perspectives were ipatible.


    "Doctor Ji, why rush? I think you already have some thoughts in your heart. Why not give it a try? Maybe you¡¯ll find that this matter isn¡¯t as bad as you believe."


    "Well, thank you so much," Ji Yu couldn¡¯t help but roll her eyes, baffled by his unwarranted confidence. Perhaps people like him all shared amon trait of blind self-assurance.


    The old woman earlier had been suspicious¡ªdefinitely not just a regr elderly person.


    "Try to trick me with this ploy, and it¡¯ll only lead to more conflict between us."


    And besides, she wasn¡¯t alone in this.


    "If you intend to mess with me, you¡¯d better check who¡¯s backing me first. Do you think Gu Qixiao is just a pushover?"


    Since she was already with Gu Qixiao, she wouldn¡¯t hesitate to involve him when faced with trouble.


    After all, this situation already reeked of threats. Was he really unaware that their cooperation was impossible?


    "What you¡¯ve done before only makes me detest you even more. Do you honestly think I¡¯ll coborate with you after seeing you like this? You¡¯re dreaming."


    Li Yu was well aware that Ji Yu was a pragmatic person, so he feltpelled to use other methods to make her understand that things wouldn¡¯t be as simple as she believed.


    "Ji Yu, your persistence is fleeting. You¡¯ll eventually realize that everything I¡¯m saying is true, and your so-called convictions are nothing more than illusions."


    Hearing that, Ji Yu knew continuing the conversation was pointless. He was clearly set on his agenda, and without any room for agreement, parting ways was the best option.


    "There¡¯s no point talking further. Since we can¡¯t findmon ground, just let me leave already."


    If they couldn¡¯t talk properly, there was no reason to continue.


    Li Yu didn¡¯t stop her either. He knew she had brought a crowd with her, making it impossible for him to keep her here.


    "Ji Yu, you¡¯ll regret this eventually."


    "Then I¡¯ll deal with it when I regret it. I¡¯m stubborn like that¡ªI don¡¯t turn back unless I hit a dead end. So everything you¡¯re saying is meaningless to me." Ji Yu was never afraid of confrontations like this.


    After all, everyone had their own thoughts and motives. Why waste energy on someone like him?


    Leaving the small room, Ji Yu felt considerably lighter. After all, this matter wasn¡¯t going to affect her much.


    But Gu Qixiao, upon hearing about it, rushed over frantically.


    "Yu, are you okay?" He was worried he might have arrived toote and found Ji Yu hurt.


    He anxiously scanned her up and down, checking for any signs of injuries.


    "I¡¯m fine." Ji Yu smiled at the man in front of her, appreciating his concern, though she could handle these matters on her own.


    Ji Yu wasn¡¯t interested in worrying too much about it.


    "The issue is already over. There¡¯s no reason for more interaction with them in the future. Even if they want trouble, they¡¯ll have to see if they¡¯re capable of it." Ji Yu had confidence in dealing with what came next.


    Gu Qixiao deeply detested Li Yu¡¯s approach.


    "If something like this happens again, just leave it to me. I won¡¯t give him any chance to contact you again."


    It was rare for him to get angry over something, but this incident truly annoyed him.


    "Also, your whereabouts seem to have been leaked for a while now. I¡¯m worried someone might try to target you next, so you should investigate the people around you and see if anyone¡¯s been leaking your information."


    This was undeniable, though Ji Yu hadn¡¯t had the timetely to deal with it.


    Ji Yu also understood there was still much work to be done moving forward.


    "Still, I don¡¯t think he¡¯lle looking for me again anytime soon. This whole thing is already impossible to continue."


    Their n had no feasibility in the first ce, and now that their true identities had been exposed, how could they carry on?


    "You don¡¯t need to worry too much about me. I can handle this myself. You should focus on yourpany instead¡ªthings have already been busy enough for youtely."

 Chapter 219: Worrying About Each Other

    <h4>Chapter 219: Chapter 219: Worrying About Each Other</h4>


    Gu Qixiao had to admit he was a very greedy person. Once he met someone he liked, he wanted to keep everything firmly in his grasp.


    "Yu, your matters could never be trouble for me. And I¡¯ve said it before ¡ª no matter what happens, I¡¯ll help you."


    Ji Yu couldn¡¯t help butugh at his expression. It was as if no matter what she did, he would always stand by her side.


    "Would you still support me even if I broke thew?" She was only joking casually, but she hadn¡¯t expected him to actually nod in agreement.


    For a moment, Ji Yu didn¡¯t know what to say.


    A love-struck fool like this was rare indeed ¡ª someone willing to stand by her unconditionally to this extent.


    "Yu, to me, your matters are the most important. So never be afraid to trouble me. These so-called troubles are exactly what I want."


    He couldn¡¯t be happier about it. Being able to help Ji Yu brought him immense joy.


    "Yu, as long as you¡¯re willing to stay by my side, nothing else matters." For a moment, Ji Yu didn¡¯t know what to say. Perhaps the bond between them really did have a captivating allure.


    Even she, who had initially told herself not to get so deeply involved in a rtionship, was beginning to lose herself a little in this love.


    "Gu Qixiao, if you treat me like this, you¡¯ll spoil me rotten." What she feared most was something like this happening ¡ª if he ever left, it would be her greatest heartbreak.


    "Don¡¯t worry. Even if I spoil you, I would never leave you. To me, your matters are the most important. No matter what you do, I¡¯ll support you."


    As he said this, he seemed worried she wouldn¡¯t believe him and quickly added, "You¡¯ll understand after you meet my family. If I really dared to mistreat you, I probably wouldn¡¯t even need you to retaliate ¡ª they¡¯d kick me out first."


    His family would never allow something like that to happen.


    Ji Yu had no doubts about this.


    "Let me think about meeting the family a bit longer. I know you¡¯re eager, but I still can¡¯t quitee to terms with it. Maybe we should wait until the baby is born before meeting them."


    This matter was somewhat awkward. Besides, the issue with the baby should probably be postponed too ¡ª showing up with a big belly just wouldn¡¯t feel right.


    Gu Qixiao wasn¡¯t as fixated on this matter now. Since they were already together, there was no need to make things unnecessarily ufortable.


    The way they were now, they were actually doing quite well.


    "Gu Qixiao, I feel like you¡¯ve changed a lot." It had only been a day, but he seemed much less stubborn about the matter now.


    "It¡¯s because I understand very well that if it¡¯s something you don¡¯t want to do, even if I push you, it won¡¯t work. This way, things are actually quite fine. Why insist on something that doesn¡¯t really matter?"


    Some things just weren¡¯t worth overthinking, like their current situation ¡ª there was no need to get hung up on it.


    "I know you love me, and that¡¯s enough." The rest could be left to time. They still had a long, long road ahead of them.


    Ji Yu couldn¡¯t help but smile, knowing he still secretly hoped to meet her family ¡ª it just wasn¡¯t the right time yet.


    "Let¡¯s head back." She figured they still needed to prepare in case Li Yu acted unexpectedly. The people around her couldn¡¯t afford to be caught off guard.


    "Who knows what he might do? But over on Qinqin¡¯s side, my brother is protecting her, so there shouldn¡¯t be any immediate danger. It¡¯s your safety I¡¯m worried about."


    "You don¡¯t need to worry about my safety." Gu Qixiao appreciated her concern, but as a man, he felt it was his responsibility to handle such matters.


    "Yu, no matter what happens, I¡¯ll stay by your side. And for something as simple as this, how could I possibly fail?"


    He would keep himself alive just to stay by her side.


    Ji Yu leaned on his shoulder, listening to the rhythm of his heartbeat.


    "I know, but I just wanted to remind you. After all, these things can be dangerous. I¡¯d feel uneasy if you were on your own."


    "If anyone should be worried, it¡¯s me." Gu Qixiao hadn¡¯t forgotten that the other side still harbored feelings for Ji Yu.


    The two of them kept chatting in fragmented bits, fully aware that any cooperation with Li Yu was impossible ¡ª his actions were utterly despicable in their eyes.


    After returning, Ji Yu reflected for a bit and decided to give Feng Qinqin an early warning. Otherwise, if they let their guard down, it would be too easy to get caught unawares.


    Feng Qinqin was also exasperated with Li Yu. Though she¡¯d felt some guilt toward him in the past, the kidnapping incident clearly revealed his issues were pre-existing and not caused by her walking away.


    "What is he even trying to aplish? It¡¯s not like we could ever help him, yet he insists on bothering us. Doesn¡¯t he have anything better to do?" Feng Qinqin couldn¡¯t make sense of his logic.


    With all that time spent harassing them, he could¡¯ve gone and done something more productive, resolving things properly.


    Ji Yu knew these matters would take time to sort out.


    After all, Li Yu had always been stubborn about certain things.


    "Judging by the current situation, it seems like I¡¯ve dragged you all into this mess. Be careful, and if anything happens, notify me right away. I¡¯lle find you immediately."


    She understood this all too well and hoped nothing unexpected would happen.


    Feng Qinqin didn¡¯t agree with her perspective at all.


    "If I hadn¡¯t gotten engaged to him, you wouldn¡¯t even be involved in this mess. I know this has nothing to do with you, so you don¡¯t need to take all the responsibility onto yourself."


    With a sigh, she admitted that part of her engagement had been to spite Ji Yuanzhou. She never expected things to turn out this way.


    "I regret getting tangled up in this in the first ce. If I hadn¡¯t, we wouldn¡¯t still be worrying about it now."


    She knew that once you got involved with someone like this, there¡¯d be no end to the troubles they¡¯d send your way.


    "For now, we¡¯ll just have to take it one step at a time." Ji Yu wasn¡¯t too bothered by it ¡ª after all, she had been his initial target from the very beginning.


    "No matter what happens, don¡¯t get yourself involved."

 Chapter 220: Throwing a Tantrum

    <h4>Chapter 220: Chapter 220: Throwing a Tantrum</h4>


    "Yuyu, why do you think people always get so tangled up in things? Like how I was so in love with your brother at first, but now I¡¯m starting to wonder if I should really marry him."


    She wasn¡¯t exactly regretful; she just wanted to test him a little longer. Besides, what happened back then did hurt her deeply.


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t think there was any issue with that.


    It was already incredibly difficult for the two of them to be together, so how could they rush into marriage now?


    "I understand what you¡¯re feeling, and I know everything you¡¯ve gone through might make you feel upset. Time will slowly ease those feelings, and it¡¯ll also help you see someone for who they really are." Just like how she once rejected Gu Qixiao too.


    But aren¡¯t they doing well together now? Sometimes, seeing past appearances and understanding more about someone could actually be a good thing.


    Feng Qinqin was asionally surprised when Ji Yu said things like this.


    "Yuyu, I feel like you¡¯ve be a lot gentler now."


    The Ji Yu from before would never have made such remarks about rtionships.


    She fully understood everything she had been through.


    "Yuyu, it makes me so happy to see these changes in you."


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t feel like she¡¯d changed much, but seeing how serious Qinqin looked, she couldn¡¯t help but smile slightly.


    "Maybe good love just makes people happier."


    Recently, she¡¯d been living quite happily. With Gu Qixiao by her side, even though he was often busy at work, he still made time for her.


    "Yuyu, I hope to have a beautiful rtionship too, just like you and Gu Qixiao."


    The two of them talkedte into the night and only woke up past noon the next day.


    When Madam Ji saw them get up, she couldn¡¯t help but smile and say, "Why are you two waking up sote? Go wash your hands and have breakfast."


    She now saw Feng Qinqin as if she were her own daughter. After all, the woman her son loved would likely be her daughter-inw in the future.


    Feng Qinqin blushed deeply from the kind treatment.


    "Thank you, Auntie." She used to handle such situations with ease, but ever since her rtionship with Ji Yu¡¯s brother became official, she¡¯d been acting differently.


    Ji Yu couldn¡¯t help butugh at her reaction.


    "You¡¯re already my mom¡¯s prospective daughter-inw in her eyes."


    Everyone recognized their rtionship. They just needed more time to work through the conflicts between them.


    After breakfast, with nothing else to do, the two decided to go out for a stroll.


    At first, Madam Ji wanted to join them, but something came up, so she let them go on their own.


    "I¡¯lle pick you two up after I finish handling things here."


    "Oh, Mom, don¡¯t worry about us. It¡¯s not like we¡¯re going to get lost. Besides, haven¡¯t we gone out together many times before? Why are you so nervous now?" Ji Yu teased.


    Some things indeed change with the evolution of rtionships.


    Feng Qinqin felt even more embarrassed but understood it was just their dynamic.


    The two had only nned to buy a few things and head back, but unexpectedly, they ran into thest person they wanted to see.


    Cai Xun looked startled when he spotted them.


    "Do you know them?" came a shrill voice.


    Ji Yu frowned instantly. They had no interest in being associated with him, yet they bumped into him while shopping. What a stroke of bad luck.


    "Just some old acquaintances." Cai Xun tried hard to downy it, but his attempts proved futile.


    The woman beside him, seeing how young and attractive the two were, grew furious. "These two aren¡¯t your mistresses, are they?"


    Initially, Ji Yu had no intention of engaging, but after hearing this, she couldn¡¯t help herself.


    "Ma¡¯am, do we look like we have anything to do with him? Honestly, just seeing him puts us in a foul mood. If you like him so much, just keep ahold of him and stop parading him in front of us."


    Ji Yu wasn¡¯t fond of people like this. In her mind, Cai Xun and this woman seemed like a perfect match¡ªbetter to keep them "locked in" so they wouldn¡¯t bother anyone else.


    "What do you mean? Who are you calling ¡¯ma¡¯am¡¯? And I think it¡¯s his fortune that I like him!"


    Although she didn¡¯t know who the woman was, her arrogance suggested she held some sway over Cai Xun.


    "That¡¯s exactly why I said you two are well-suited. Calling you ¡¯ma¡¯am¡¯ is quite respectful, isn¡¯t it? You must be, what, in your forties? Calling you ¡¯ma¡¯am¡¯ elevates you." Ji Yu saw no need to be polite with someone like her.


    Ji Yu had been in a good mood, but this encounter left her irritated.


    "You little b*tch, how dare you talk to me like that!" The woman erupted in anger, jabbing a manicured nail toward Ji Yu, as if ready to strike her.


    Feng Qinqin, remembering that Ji Yu was pregnant, quickly stepped in front of her. "Ma¡¯am, you¡¯re the one bothering us first. And now you¡¯re upset just because we called you ¡¯ma¡¯am¡¯? Also, can¡¯t you see my friend is pregnant?"


    Such reckless behavior was not only rude but could also have harmed Ji Yu.


    "So what if that little b*tch is pregnant? I¡¯m pissed off, and I¡¯ll deal with her however I want. What does it have to do with you?"


    Feng Qinqin chuckled coldly. They didn¡¯t seek trouble, but that didn¡¯t mean they feared it.


    "The nonsense you¡¯re spouting only makes us find you even more annoying. And what we do has nothing to do with you, does it?" They despised Cai Xun, but they hadn¡¯t said much, yet here this woman came provoking them¡ªit was clearly the other side¡¯s problem.


    Seeing the situation escte, Cai Xun knew that continuing down this path would only spell trouble for him.


    He quickly stepped in to hold back the angry woman.


    "We can¡¯t afford to mess with these two," Cai Xun said sincerely, genuinely trying to stop her. They both had solid backing, and if things got physical, his side would definitely lose.


    "I¡¯ve never met anyone I couldn¡¯t deal with! And these two little b*tches must have something to do with you¡ªwhy else would you look so startled when you saw them?"


    The woman still refused to believe she couldn¡¯t handle the two of them.


    Seeing things spiral further, the store manager hurried over to mediate and figure out what was happening.


    "They came looking for trouble with me. Am I not even allowed to talk back?"

 Chapter 221 Misfortune

    <h4>Chapter 221: Chapter 221 Misfortune</h4>


    To be honest, situations like this can really drive people crazy.


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t want to get involved in the first ce, but the other party kept pushing her limits. In that case, she had no choice but to use other methods to deal with them.


    "Ladies and gentlemen, please calm down. This is a ce of business, and other customers might want toe in and browse. Could we take this outside to talk, please?"


    The manager felt like his head was splitting. He couldn¡¯t even figure out why this person was so consumed with fury.


    "Why should I take this outside? It¡¯s these two little bitches who went looking for trouble with me first! If you don¡¯t kick them out, I¡¯m not letting this go!"


    She continued to act aggressively and domineeringly.


    Cai Xun had already anticipated what would happen and looked utterly helpless.


    "Those two have nothing to do with me, and they both have powerful backers. If you keep this up, you¡¯re bound to offend the people supporting them."


    Being a kept man was already something shameful, and now, finding himself in this situation, he felt even more humiliated.


    Ji Yu sneered as she watched him; his words didn¡¯t elicit any reaction from her.


    "Cai Xun, if you¡¯re still a man, get her out of here. We don¡¯t want to start trouble, but if she keeps pushing, don¡¯t me us for what happens."


    Feng Qinqin looked at him withplete disdain now. She thought he was a coward, and considering what he did in the past, any hope for a rtionship between them was long gone.


    Cai Xun had hoped to use this opportunity to rekindle something, but evidently, that wasn¡¯t happening.


    "We don¡¯t mean anything by this. Please, just don¡¯t do this."


    But the situation was already spiraling out of control, and the woman felt convinced they were intentionally provoking her.


    When Madam Ji arrived on the scene, this was exactly what she walked into. How could she not be upset?


    "I¡¯d like to see who dares bully my daughter." She had nned to spend a pleasant day shopping with the girls, but clearly, this needed to be dealt with first.


    The woman seemed to recognize her and appeared slightly less confrontational.


    "I¡¯m not the one to me¡ªit¡¯s their fault for bugging me first. And how dare they flirt with my man? Of course I wouldn¡¯t just sit back and let them!"


    Madam Ji, who also knew Cai Xun, gave him a contemptuous look. "Our Yu has nothing to do with you, and Qinqin as well¡ªshe¡¯s through with you. Why are you still trying to stay relevant in their lives?"


    A man like this should just be tossed aside. What¡¯s the point in dwelling on someone like him?


    "If you¡¯re here to cause trouble, we¡¯ll dly y along." Madam Ji stood protectively in front of them, firm and resolute.


    The woman seemed to remember Madam Ji¡¯s background, and her arrogance faltered. She could only re resentfully at the two younger women before leaving in a huff.


    And with that, the ridiculous scene finally came to an end.


    Cai Xun, on the other hand, looked utterly embarrassed, and when the woman left, she didn¡¯t so much as nce back at him.


    Both Ji Yu and Feng Qinqin felt nothing but disgust towards him. He deserved no sympathy or pity.


    "I¡¯m sorry. What happened in the past was entirely my fault. I¡¯ve thought it through now. Qinqin, can you give me another chance?"


    He genuinely regretted everything. If he¡¯d known things would turn out like this, he never would¡¯ve gone after Feng Qinqin¡¯s business back then.


    Feng Qinqin found his pleaughable.


    "Do you think an apology is enough to erase what you did? Do you even realize you nearly bankrupted my family? Don¡¯t you think you should mention that?" Back then, the situation was dire. If Gu Qixiao hadn¡¯t chosen to cooperate with her family at thest minute, the Feng family would¡¯ve suffered massive losses.


    "What, do you think you¡¯re some hotmodity I¡¯ve been waiting around for?"


    Their rtionship had ended long ago. Right now, this could only evoke even more revulsion.


    He opened his mouth as if to say something more, but ultimately swallowed it back.


    "I¡¯m sorry. I really know I was wrong. No matter what, I¡¯ll make it up to you for what happened."


    But they didn¡¯t need his so-calledpensation.


    Madam Ji wasn¡¯t about to let him drag this on any longer. She said coldly, "If you¡¯re so aware of how you wronged Qinqin, then do her a favor and stop appearing in front of her. Your presence only disgusts her further."


    She wasn¡¯t defending her daughter for the sake of it¡ªthis was just the truth of the matter.


    An ex should behave like they¡¯re dead and buried.


    "There¡¯s nothing worth saying to someone like him. Let¡¯s go find something fun to do instead."


    They¡¯d rarely had a chance to hang out together, and they weren¡¯t about to let this pathetic excuse for a man ruin their day.


    When Feng Qinqin left, she didn¡¯t look back at all, leaving Cai Xun standing there, his face full of disappointment. He had hoped to use this as an opportunity to win her back.


    Thinking of the older woman he was now tied to made him feel queasy, but he had no choice. Without her, he couldn¡¯t maintain his currentvish lifestyle.


    Feng Qinqin¡¯s mood remained sour for the rest of the day. Running into an ex, especially in such a terrible context, was bound to leave a bad taste.


    "Qinqin, if you¡¯re still upset, we can go back and beat him up. Honestly, it¡¯s his fault anyway. If we hit him, it wouldn¡¯t be unjustified." Ji Yu had no sympathy for someone like him. Since he¡¯d chosen to be kept, he should¡¯ve been ready for the consequences.


    "No need. There¡¯s nothing between us anymore. Even if we went back to beat him up, who knows how much he¡¯d try to drag it out afterward." Feng Qinqin had alreadye to terms with everything about their past rtionship.


    Liking someone like him would¡¯ve been humiliating. She was much better off now.


    "I don¡¯t even know why, but my mood¡¯s just terrible right now. It¡¯s not that I have lingering feelings for him¡ªI just don¡¯t understand why someone like that had to show up in front of me at all."


    What they had was long over. There was nothing worth dwelling on.


    "You¡¯re just too fixated on things like this," Ji Yu said, unsure what else to say. The situation was indeed irritating.


    "Forget it. There¡¯s no point wasting energy on this. Let him do whatever he wants¡ªit has nothing to do with me."


    Past events had already drifted away with the wind.


    Why bother reminiscing?

 Chapter 222: Want to Forget

    <h4>Chapter 222: Chapter 222: Want to Forget</h4>


    Ji Yu was quite at ease with the situation in front of her.


    After all, why think so much about someone who wouldn¡¯t matter in the future?


    But no one expected Cai Xun to be so shameless.


    When Ji Yu received a call from Feng Qinqin, she thought she¡¯d misheard.


    "Cai Xun went shopping with the sugar mommy who¡¯s been supporting him yesterday, and today he¡¯sing to you?" His tactics sure are borate.


    Feng Qinqin sounded exasperated. "He¡¯s still at my house whining about his misery. The fact that he can even bring himself to do that¡ªunbelievable. Everyone in my family knows what kind of person he is now, and no one is willing to forgive him."


    Her family had been holding a grudge against him ever since that business coboration incident.


    Now, seeing Cai Xun, they naturally felt no sympathy.


    Ji Yu, thinking about Ji Yuanzhou¡¯s recent frustrations, casually pushed him forward to deal with it.


    "You should know, this is Qinqin¡¯s ex-boyfriend¡ªthe scumbag one."


    Ji Yuanzhou vaguely remembered the man, having met him once before.


    Seeing the situation, he immediately ced himself protectively in front of Feng Qinqin.


    "If you¡¯re a man, get out of here right now. Do you really think you still have a chance to get back with Qinqin? She¡¯s my woman now."


    He had no tolerance for people like this.


    Feng Qinqin¡¯s gaze hadn¡¯t left Ji Yuanzhou ever since he¡¯d appeared. The love in her eyes was impossible to conceal.


    Cai Xun sneered. "No wonder you¡¯ve been so dismissive from the start. Turns out you already had a backup n."


    Before he could say more, Ji Yuanzhou punched him to the ground.


    "Watch your mouth." He was already disgusted by him, and now he dared to spew nonsense like this.


    Not to mention that their rtionship didn¡¯tst long to begin with.


    How could it count as having a backup n?


    "Qinqin, you don¡¯t need to waste words with someone like him. Just kick him out. The things he¡¯s done are unforgivable." Ji Yu didn¡¯t want Feng Qinqin making the same mistake again.


    "I know." How could she not?


    That period had been the darkest in her life.


    Fortunately, in the end, the oue was good.


    All of this no longer impacted her life.


    Even now, thinking back to that time, Feng Qinqin still felt a lingering fear.


    "Ji Yuanzhou, you don¡¯t need to bother with someone like him. He has nothing to do with me anymore. What he¡¯s done has nothing to do with me." She¡¯d already let go.


    She held Ji Yuanzhou¡¯s hand, clearly uninterested in dwelling on Cai Xun any longer.


    Seeing the two of them like this, Ji Yu felt a bit more at ease.


    Sometimes, opportunities like this need to be seized tightly, or various problems could easily ariseter.


    "Yuyu, next time we see Cai Xun, let¡¯s just pretend we don¡¯t know him."


    After all, Cai Xun still had his "skills" and could even find a sugar mommy to support him at this point.


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t have much opinion about it.


    Considering that she was still pregnant and with all the earlier issues, there were quite a few bodyguards around her.


    Before long, the bodyguards escorted Cai Xun out.


    Ji Yuanzhou looked at the scene awkwardly.


    "Mr. and Mrs. Feng, I¡¯m sorry for showing up empty-handed today."


    He felt this situation was extremely improper.


    He couldn¡¯t express just how embarrassed he was.


    In fact, his earlier behavior had left a good impression on the Feng family¡¯s elders, so they treated him with kindness. "As long as Qinqin likes you, there¡¯s no need to fuss over such details."


    They couldn¡¯t be more devoted to their daughter. Seeing how well the two got along now, they couldn¡¯t be happier.


    Feng Qinqin, understanding this too, said, "Yuyu, I think I¡¯m not as scared anymore."


    The wounds of the past needed the happiness of the present to heal.


    Hearing this, Ji Yu felt genuinely happy for them.


    "The two of you can keep working on this. You have all the time in the world to explore this rtionship."


    Love shouldn¡¯t be rushed.


    Sometimes initial understanding is fleeting, only for boredom to set inter.


    To stay together for the long haul, they¡¯d need to carefully work through things.


    Otherwise, who knew what could happen in the future?


    Taking in Ji Yu¡¯s words, Feng Qinqin nodded. "Although, your Gu Qixiao seems to be quite busy these days."


    It was true¡ªJi Yu hadn¡¯t seen Gu Qixiao in several days.


    "You¡¯re really careless, aren¡¯t you? At a time like this, shouldn¡¯t you be checking on Gu Qixiao? If he suddenly falls for someone else, don¡¯te cryingter."


    Ji Yu was nonchnt about it.


    "If he really has other options, I¡¯ll step aside. It¡¯s not like I need love to survive."


    She was doing just fine now, wasn¡¯t she?


    And besides, hadn¡¯t their rtionship endured even during times when Gu Qixiao was away for long stretches?


    Some things, knowing they could change, weren¡¯t worth dwelling on.


    "You¡ªI don¡¯t know whether to call you carefree or just optimistic."


    "It¡¯s neither. I just trust that my choice is the best for me." How could she have doubts about someone she loved?


    That wouldn¡¯t make sense, which is why Ji Yu always chose to trust Gu Qixiao.


    If something really did happen, she would leave immediately.


    But no one thought Feng Qinqin¡¯s casual remark would actually lead to trouble.


    When Ji Yu saw the news of Gu Qixiao intimately close to another woman, she realized perhaps she wasn¡¯t as detached as she thought.


    "Yuyu, maybe there¡¯s some misunderstanding. Gu Qixiao was so good to you before¡ªhow could his feelings change just like that?"


    Even Feng Qinqin found it unbelievable.


    No one had expected this to happen.


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t reply, but it was obvious she was furious about it.


    "Yuyu, you need to stay calm." Feng Qinqin hoped Ji Yu wouldn¡¯t jump to conclusions.


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t want to act rashly either.


    She had to ask and rify things in person.


    After all, this wasn¡¯t some trivial matter.


    Gu Qixiao was surprised to find Ji Yu at the office; she usually avoided appearing with him in such settings.


    "Yu, what brings you here?"


    Looking at him, Ji Yu felt a lump in her throat, unable to get the words out.


    She really wanted to ask if his recent gestures were genuine or if the rumors had any truth to them.


    "Gu Qixiao, don¡¯t you have something you want to tell me?"


    Her question caught Gu Qixiao off guard. He genuinely looked puzzled, unsure what was going on with her.


    "Did something happen?" he asked, his expression filled with genuine confusion, while he tried to think back on anything that might have gone wrong recently.

 Chapter 223 Reflection

    <h4>Chapter 223: Chapter 223 Reflection</h4>


    "If you don¡¯t know, then forget it." Ji Yu didn¡¯t have much intention of digging deeper. After all, sometimes people need their privacy.


    Besides, their rtionship now was ambiguous at best¡ªjust a romantic rtionship, perhaps. If he ever fell for someone else, she could ept it.


    Gu Qixiao, even though slightly clueless about emotional matters, quickly sensed that something was very wrong.


    "Yu, if there¡¯s something on your mind, just tell me directly. I¡¯m curious to know what¡¯s happening too." He had no intention of being sarcastic.


    He was aware that sometimes girls, when upset, disliked being clear about their grievances.


    It was the first time he had seen Ji Yu this angry.


    He knew there must be something going on that he wasn¡¯t aware of; otherwise, how could things have reached this point?


    "Look at the recent news yourself." Ji Yu, seeing he genuinely seemed to have no idea, magnanimously let him off the hook.


    Gu Qixiao understood that the news often liked to twist the truth, so when he opened the articles, he didn¡¯t think much of it at first.


    But when he saw headlines about him and some actress supposedly having a secret romance, his expression became utterly bewildered.


    "Yu, this is absolutely nonsense." He didn¡¯t even know who the actress was, and with so many people present that day, how could there possibly be any connection between them?


    "There must be some kind of misunderstanding." No matter how foolish he might be, he would never do something like this. After all the effort he put into winning her over, why would he use such tactics to drive her away?


    "Yu, do you not trust me?" He felt a pang of hurt in his heart. Could it be that theycked even this basic level of trust?


    "It¡¯s not that I don¡¯t trust you, but shouldn¡¯t you give me an exnation for this?"


    No matter how far their rtionship had progressed, some things still required rification.


    Besides, for something like this to have spread, it showed the other party had premeditated intentions.


    "I don¡¯t care who this actress is, but since she¡¯s done this, I won¡¯t let her get away with it unscathed."


    Gu Qixiao understood this clearly.


    The controversy had been trending all day, and by now it had likely be widely known.


    "Yu, rest assured, I will give you a reasonable exnation, and this situation absolutely won¡¯t continue like this."


    The person he loved was only her, and no matter what happenedter, that wouldn¡¯t change.


    "Alright." Ji Yu¡¯s stance on the matter was simple¡ªif he exined clearly, then there was no issue.


    "The next time something like this happens, just tell me directly. I won¡¯t judge you for it."


    He was serious about handling situations like this and believed that any conflict between them should be addressed openly, rather than evading it, which would only hurt them both in the end.


    Ji Yu felt a bit embarrassed herself. At first, she had truly been furious about this incident, and it clouded her judgment.


    "I owe you an apology for this too. Initially, I was quite aggressive and overstepped some boundaries."


    "You had every right to be angry. I didn¡¯t expect this to happen, and I failed to handle it properly, so that¡¯s my fault," Gu Qixiao said, not wanting her to feel guilty or second-guess herself in any way.


    "Yu, if something like this happens again, please tell me directly. I will deal with it immediately, and I can even bring that actress to confront her face-to-face."


    He refused to admit to anything he hadn¡¯t done.


    Moreover, matters like this could affect their rtionship, and there was absolutely no reason to provoke such drama.


    "You¡¯re the only one I truly love. I want to stay by your side forever, so how could I possibly do something like that?"


    When it came to confessing his feelings, he left no room for ambiguity.


    Their rtionship deserved to endure and thrive.


    Ji Yu suddenly recalled her feelings yesterday when she first saw the news.


    "But this incident made me realize something."


    She now understood just how significant Gu Qixiao was to her, and that his leaving would be truly devastating for her.


    "Gu Qixiao, you¡¯re incredibly important to me. Moving forward, if something like this happens again, I¡¯ll talk to you about it directly without using this tone or evading the issue."


    Even in the midst of his anger, Gu Qixiao¡¯s mood shifted upon hearing these words.


    What could be more thrilling than hearing a heartfelt confession from the one you love?


    "This time, I suppose I can count my blessings in disguise¡ªthis incident indirectly proves how much I mean to you." He admitted that sometimes he too felt uncertain, since things like this were profoundly important to him.


    "Yu, you have no idea how happy I was when I heard you say that I matter so much to you."


    Ji Yu wanted to say it was obvious.


    But looking at him beam with such joy¡ªit was quite endearing.


    At least, between them now, there seemed to be a sense of happiness.


    Faced with a situation like this, Gu Qixiao was determined to take firm action.


    When releasing his statement, he deliberately tagged the actress.


    [I have no idea when thisdy took these photos or why she issued a statement to insinuate something about me. There¡¯s absolutely no rtionship between us. I hope everyone sees the truth, and besides, I already have a girlfriend.]


    The moment those words appeared online, the inte exploded.


    [But didn¡¯t Li Xinyao basically admit to it just now?]


    [So what if she admitted it? Guess she just wanted to ride the wave of attention, without realizing he already has a girlfriend.]


    [So this is her throwing herself at someone and still getting shut down¡ªhow embarrassing!]


    Now, everyone was mocking Li Xinyao.


    Ji Yu wasn¡¯t surprised when she saw this, understanding that the actress likely just wanted publicity without any deeper motives.


    "Let¡¯s not bring this up again after it¡¯s over." Ultimately, things that hadn¡¯t happened wouldn¡¯t affect their rtionship, and bringing it upter would just turn it into meaningless old gossip.


    Both of them shared the same attitude toward the matter¡ªif someone tried this again, they would respond in the same way.


    With rare free time on his hands, Gu Qixiao decided to take her out for a stroll.


    "Should we go to an auction? But given my current figure, I probably can¡¯t fit into an evening gown."


    Ever since Ji Yu became pregnant, her belly had be noticeable, making evening gowns a bit of an indulgence.


    "No matter how you look, you¡¯re the most beautiful to me, so there¡¯s no need for an evening gown."

 Chapter 224 Accidental Encounter at the Auction

    <h4>Chapter 224: Chapter 224 idental Encounter at the Auction</h4>


    "If there¡¯s anything you like, just bid on it directly." Gu Qixiao was always generous with the people he cared about, and he had made it clear that today¡¯s outing was simply meant to help her rx.


    Because the two of them were dressed rather uniquely, they naturally caught people¡¯s attention.


    "What¡¯s going on with these two? They didn¡¯t even wear formal attire. Do they not take this auction seriously?"


    "Well, do you even know who they are? For them, wearing or not wearing evening gowns makes no difference."


    Many attendees were aware of their identities and didn¡¯t dare toment further.


    Even the organizers treated them with the utmost politeness; who else would dare say anything?


    Ji Yu wasn¡¯t particrly interested in auctions and such.


    But when she saw a bracelet, she took an immediate liking to it.


    Gu Qixiao had been biding his time to shine and wasn¡¯t about to let the opportunity slip.


    However, another party also seemed quite fond of the bracelet. The bidding war began, and the price kept doubling, bringing a smile to the auctioneer on stage.


    Ji Yu was initially curious but, seeing the price climb this high, didn¡¯t feel the need to continue.


    "How about we just let it go? It¡¯s not like I absolutely need this bracelet."


    But how could Gu Qixiao possibly skimp when it came to someone he liked?


    "You like it, so I have to get it for you. Besides, their bidding price isn¡¯t particrly high." To him, spending money was nothingpared to earning Ji Yu¡¯s smile.


    Ji Yu was slightly helpless but ultimately let Gu Qixiao win the bid for the bracelet.


    "President Gu, it¡¯s been such a long time!" Later, as the auction concluded and Gu Qixiao picked up the bracelet, he happened to run into the person who hadpeted against him for it.


    The woman appeared rxed, but her intense gaze toward Gu Qixiao was unmistakable.


    Ji Yu instinctively thought the woman must havee here for Gu Qixiao.


    "What are you doing here?" Though they were familiar with each other, it had been a long time since theyst met. Something about her seemed off, and he had no interest in engaging.


    "After all this time, you¡¯re this cold to me? And who¡¯s your new me over there? Where¡¯s your little follower from before?"


    As she said this, her eyes swept up and down, sizing Ji Yu up.


    Ji Yu met the gaze without concern, aware they must have some prior connection¡ªotherwise, such a greeting wouldn¡¯t make sense.


    "If you two have things to discuss, I¡¯ll go ahead and leave first."


    "I¡¯ll go with you. We agreed to go out together today, after all." Gu Qixiao had little interest in this woman¡¯s affairs.


    He knew Ji Yu was far more important. He had already decided Ji Yu was his future wife; how could he possibly consider someone else at this time?


    "It seems President Gu is busy shopping with his beauty today and doesn¡¯t have time to chat with me. Well, that¡¯s fine. I¡¯m sure we¡¯ll see each other again." The woman nced disdainfully at Ji Yu¡¯s belly.


    She hadn¡¯t heard any news of Gu Qixiao getting married and was certain their rtionship wasn¡¯t a legitimate one.


    Ji Yu was keenly attuned to people¡¯s gazes. When she caught the woman looking at her stomach, she instantly knew the visitor had ill intentions.


    "In that case, why don¡¯t we head back and rest? I¡¯m feeling a bit tired."


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t show any particr reaction, idly ying with the bracelet in her hand.


    The woman¡¯s eyes burned with frustration at this casual disy.


    "Miss, may I know your name? Perhaps we could be friends."


    "Ji Yu," she replied lightly.


    Since she wasn¡¯t familiar with this person, offering just a name felt like enough courtesy.


    "My name is Ling Xia."


    Ji Yu had no impression of her.


    Still, the two had experienced a brief encounter, and it was evident that Ling Xia had feelings for Gu Qixiao.


    Once they got in the car, Ji Yu finally asked about the woman¡¯s identity.


    "She¡¯s sort of an old schoolmate of mine. We haven¡¯t seen each other in ages, and I¡¯m not sure what¡¯s going on with her today. She seemed eager to get to know you."


    Gu Qixiao¡¯s tone carried no nostalgia, treating her like a stranger.


    Given how long they hadn¡¯t seen each other and how confrontational her behavior was, he couldn¡¯t guess her intentions.


    "She probably has other ideas about you." Ji Yu remarked casually, not expecting him to take her words seriously.


    The next day, Ji Yu encountered Ling Xia again at Gu Qixiao¡¯spany.


    "Miss Ji, I didn¡¯t know you were familiar with Xiao¡¯spany," Ling Xia remarked with exaggerated surprise, as though it was utterly iprehensible.


    "What exactly are you trying to imply? Why would it matter to you whether or not I know this ce? Besides, you must have known I¡¯d be here today¡ªthat¡¯s why you showed up." Ji Yu wasn¡¯t fazed by such petty tricks.


    She knew full well that anything between Ling Xia and Gu Qixiao could never happen. Clinging to such notions would only serve to strain their connections and, ironically, might even create actual opportunities for others.


    Ji Yu¡¯s stance remained straightforward. She didn¡¯t doubt Gu Qixiao¡¯s loyalty.


    "Miss Ji might not know this, but we used to be very close ssmates. Everyone even said back then that he secretly liked me. Although thinking about it now, it seems impossible¡ªhe¡¯s such a remarkable person, with so many admirers. Why would he secretly like me?"


    Given her tone and slight smile, Ling Xia seemed to be caught in sentimental nostalgia.


    Ji Yu heard her words without the slightest change in expression, sensing no impact from what was said.


    "Honestly, we¡¯re all about open feelings here¡ªnothing secretive." Their rtionship was open and well-known to everyone.


    Ling Xia was momentarily stung.


    Whatever boldness Ji Yu had baffled her. But when Ling Xia thought of the child growing inside Ji Yu, she begrudgingly acknowledged that maybe Ji Yu did have some leverage.


    "Let me be blunt: Even if you¡¯re carrying his child, it doesn¡¯t mean you¡¯ll ever step foot into the Gu family. You must realize he sees you as nothing more than a ything. Otherwise, why hasn¡¯t he married you despite your pregnancy?"


    At that, Ling Xia¡¯s gaze sharpened with unveiled disdain.


    She had already concluded their rtionship was illegitimate, without approval from either family.


    "Whether I¡¯m a ything isn¡¯t any of your business, is it? After all, you¡¯re not even close to being one." Ji Yu had little tolerance for people who stirred up drama. Pregnancy had made her temper sharper, leaving her words blunt and unapologetic.

 Chapter 225 Hesitation

    <h4>Chapter 225: Chapter 225 Hesitation</h4>


    "You!" Ling Xia seemedpletely taken aback by her words and reacted with visible anger.


    The rtionship between them wasn¡¯t as close as imagined, something that had already made her quite upset. Now, hearing Ji Yu speak like this, it was impossible for her to feel any better.


    "Don¡¯t go thinking that your status now can protect you. Even if the child in your womb is his flesh and blood, I can still rece you."


    "Then you¡¯d better try quickly. I¡¯m quite looking forward to seeing if you seed." Ji Yu dismissed such matters with utter disdain, unable toprehend their so-calledpetitiveness.


    Wasn¡¯t the current situation good enough? Did it really have to turn into an awkward mess for her to feel satisfied?


    Ji Yu ignored herpletely and headed straight to Gu Qixiao¡¯s office.


    Whenever Gu Qixiao saw her, he would beam with joy, and today was no exception.


    "I thought you¡¯d be busy with plenty of things today and wouldn¡¯te by." Gu Qixiao expressed his affection clearly.


    He knew that maintaining their bond for the long term was crucial.


    "I came today specifically to talk to you about this matter." The troubles caused by Li Yu kept surfacing, making it difficult to resolve himpletely.


    "Li Yu¡¯s situation is ratherplicated. I¡¯m not sure what method could be used to deal with him thoroughly."


    As she spoke about it, she found the issue truly vexing.


    "Since things have gone this far and he¡¯s still pushing, we might as well act directly." Gu Qixiao wasn¡¯t fond of people like him to begin with.


    He had been holding back all this time solely to ensure Ji Yu wouldn¡¯t get hurt.


    If the other party refused to back off, then force was the only option left.


    "I¡¯m worried that if we act, this matter could involve you. After all, this kind of thing is significant to everyone. I¡¯m afraid unforeseen situations might arise." With so many people watching them, any changes could spark unnecessary trouble.


    After all, this was her own issue. How could she continue to waver like this?


    "Yu, your concerns are mine. No matter when or where, I will never stand by and ignore your problems."


    Regardless of whether they argued or encountered variousplications in the future, this would never change.


    "Since this matter involves you, it¡¯s only natural that it¡¯s my problem too."


    The two had already be inseparably intertwined, especially with her carrying his child.


    "You and the child are both people I need to protect. To me, you¡¯re both deeply important, so regardless of what happens next, I¡¯ll bear it all for you."


    Ji Yu sometimes felt their rtionship was a bit unfair.


    Much like now, his attitude seemed excessively infatuated.


    "Gu Qixiao, you don¡¯t need to sacrifice so much for me. To be honest, you¡¯re just as important to me."


    "With that one sentence from you, what more could I ask for?" Gu Qixiao¡¯s stance on the matter was equally resolute.


    From how things currently stood, they did indeed seem highlypatible.


    When Ji Yu left, she appeared deeply lost in thought.


    She revisited the recent situation.


    Li Yu had been showing up very frequently.


    "Sister Yu, you shouldn¡¯t concern yourself with this matter. That guy has some serious issues."


    Tian was quite worried about her physical condition, especially since she was pregnant.


    "I¡¯m fine, just feeling mentally exhausted." Dealing with someone like Li Yu required immense effort to resolve smoothly.


    "If hees again, give him my contact information directly." They needed to have a proper discussion. Continuing like this benefited neither side.


    It was clear that Li Yu agreed to Ji Yu¡¯s proposal to talk.


    That night, Ji Yu received his message.


    Ji Yu found his behavior iprehensible, and everything about him now made her feel repulsed.


    "Ji Yu, you don¡¯t need to react so strongly. For me, it¡¯s simple¡ªI only need your skills. I wasn¡¯t trying to make you do anything wrong."


    She treated the matter of surgeries with utmost seriousness. Seeing the joyful expressions of her patients reassured her of her sess.


    But this time, the situation was clearly abnormal.


    "You didn¡¯t directly ask me to do bad things but forced me to be an aplice. Do you really think such actions aren¡¯t an insult to me?" In her current state, she could hardly even hold a scalpel.


    It wasn¡¯t just the child; there were also lingering psychological shadows from herst surgery. Though these things could eventually be ovee, if he continued acting this way, there was bound to be a confrontation between them.


    "You should be well aware of what¡¯s happening between us."


    "You just need to pretend you don¡¯t know what we¡¯re nning." Li Yu couldn¡¯t understand why such an easypromise seemed beyond her grasp.


    "Do you find self-deception meaningful? Being the aplice doing dirty work yet pretending otherwise¡ªI can¡¯t ept that."


    "I hope you stop bothering me from now on. Otherwise, I won¡¯t stop Gu Qixiao from acting against you."


    "Don¡¯t tell me you think he hasn¡¯t already made a move? Do you know why I¡¯ve been approaching you so frequently? It¡¯s because he¡¯s already targeting my operations." His tone sounded frustrated discussing this.


    He had long anticipated that things would escte between them to this point.


    Yet Gu Qixiao¡¯s actions were proving increasingly difficult to withstand.


    "Given that, you¡¯re even less entitled to trouble me anymore. You should understand who matters most to him. As long as you leave me alone, I can convince him to stop targeting you."


    Ji Yu felt confident about this. Their bond was clear, and given how much Gu Qixiao cared for her, he would undoubtedly heed her words.


    Li Yu grappled with whether he should agree to this.


    "Ji Yu, have you seriously never considered cooperating with us? This issue brings nothing but benefits to you."


    Up to now, his belief remained unchanged¡ªthinking that Ji Yu¡¯s inner demons had yet to surface, which exined her stubbornness.


    "So, what you mean is that he should keep attacking you, is that it?"


    Ji Yu had no inclinations to waste further words. She only sought a resolution.


    Li Yu said nothing more, ending the call abruptly, as though still caught in indecision.

 Chapter 226: Endless Entanglement

    <h4>Chapter 226: Chapter 226: Endless Entanglement</h4>


    They have plenty of time to contemte, though I¡¯m unsure if their base can hold out until then.


    Ji Yu was deeply curious about when Gu Qixiao would begin taking action.


    However, she hadn¡¯t recently had time to visit Gu Qixiao¡¯spany, so there hadn¡¯t been a chance to inquire about the matter yet.


    "Sister Yu, there¡¯s a woman outside looking for you." Tian hadn¡¯t wanted to bring that woman in, but her stubborn insistence, as if she wouldn¡¯t leave until she got her way, forced him to let the woman in before discussing anything further.


    Ji Yu wasn¡¯t surprised at all to see Ling Xia.


    "What do you want from me?"


    Ling Xia stared at her with growing disdain.


    "I thought you¡¯d be someone important, but you¡¯re just a lowly cosmetic surgeon. Do you genuinely believe you¡¯re worthy of being with Xiao?" Her tone carried that same haughty attitude, brimming with contempt.


    Ji Yu truly didn¡¯t understand where Ling Xia got this kind of determination ¡ªing all the way to her clinic just to mock her.


    "So, what exactly are you trying to say?"


    Had there really been something between the two of them, Ling Xia wouldn¡¯t be acting so arrogant and self-important. She¡¯d be unting it instead.


    "I don¡¯t care about whatever might have gone on between you two. Besides, I¡¯m well aware of my standing. I¡¯m not even sure if I¡¯ll ever marry into the Gu family."


    Ji Yu, a yful glint in her eye, spoke softly and delicately, as if she genuinely doubted whether she could ever marry Gu Qixiao.


    Ling Xia, in response, disyed sheer arrogance.


    "At least you have some self-awareness. Since you know your limits, I advise you to stay away from him from now on and stop interfering with our rtionship."


    So, this condescending performance of hers was all for delivering this line?


    To be honest, Ji Yu felt a bit disappointed by such a disy.


    "Oh, so you two aren¡¯t even together yet? And here you are, acting so bold. Did he tell you that the rtionship between us is just casual, and that¡¯s why you dare to confront me?"


    Ji Yu appeared so aggrieved, even sping her stomach as if she were the one being bullied.


    "Stop acting like I¡¯m bullying you. I¡¯m only here to talk logic. We¡¯re from well-matched families, and we¡¯ll be working together in the future. Do you really think you stand a chance? And as for the child you¡¯re carrying, it¡¯ll never be recognized as a legitimate child of the Gu family."


    At the mention of the child, her tone turned disdainful.


    She even med Gu Qixiao for his carelessness, allowing a mistress to get pregnant.


    "It seems you¡¯re quite knowledgeable and even capable of predicting the future. Are you possibly involved in some kind of peculiar upation?"


    Ji Yu found the entire situation increasingly amusing.


    For Ling Xia to think she could maintain such arrogance here? That was absurd.


    "If you two end up together, I won¡¯t stand in your way. Just notify me, and I¡¯ll disappear from your world." Whether she could truly win over Gu Qixiao remained to be seen.


    "Ji Yu, don¡¯t fake such politeness with me. Sooner orter, we¡¯ll be together. He had a crush on me back in college ¡ª I¡¯ve told you that before."


    Ling Xia seemed utterly convinced about this.


    "If it hadn¡¯t been for Song Xuan, how could we possibly have been separated?"


    Apparently, Song Xuan had already been in the picture back then, but the way Ling Xia recounted this was astounding.


    "Song Xuan is no longer by his side now. He¡¯s already repaid his debt of gratitude. From now on, it¡¯ll just be about us."


    She had mapped out a future for herself and Gu Qixiao, utterly convinced that she was the one he truly loved.


    Ji Yu had no interest in continuing this pointless back-and-forth with her.


    Conveniently, Song Xuan also happened toe looking for Ji Yu.


    Hearing Ling Xia¡¯s words, Song Xuan let out a cold chuckle.


    "Do you really believe Xiao likes you?" She had simplye to discuss some future matters with Ji Yu, never expecting to run into an old acquaintance here.


    "And you are?" Ling Xia couldn¡¯t recognize her at first nce due to her restored appearance.


    "Weren¡¯t you just talking about me? Why are you pretending now like you don¡¯t know who I am?" Song Xuan wasn¡¯t entirely unfamiliar with Ling Xia, though those past events weren¡¯t particrly significant to her.


    "Ji Yu, I came to discuss something with you. Can you send her away first? She has nothing to do with Xiao."


    She stated this with absolute certainty.


    Ji Yu grew curious about this supposed crush Ling Xia spoke so confidently about.


    Perhaps sensing Ji Yu¡¯s curiosity, Song Xuan gleefully exploited the opportunity to sprinkle salt into the wound.


    "Those rumors were spread by her. She doesn¡¯t even remember herself that she orchestrated the whole thing ¡ª every im about Xiao liking her was her doing."


    "You¡¯re lying! I didn¡¯t arrange any of that. Why would I? We¡¯re genuinely connected by feelings." Ling Xia became visibly agitated at hearing this.


    Ji Yu hadn¡¯t expected the truth to be like this.


    "So, it¡¯s all just in your imagination? What a pity. You two really have no chance, then." Ji Yu saw no need to spare any kindness to someone like this.


    After all, they were never going to be friends. She might as well offend her thoroughly.


    As expected, upon hearing this, Ling Xia lost control of her emotions.


    Her vision darkened, and she outright fainted on the spot.


    Song Xuan looked down at her with disdain. "Now, can we have a proper conversation? She¡¯s already unconscious, and frankly, this has little to do with her anyway."


    She hade to Ji Yu today with one goal in mind: to convince Ji Yu to leave Gu Qixiao.


    Or perhaps the two of them could stay by Gu Qixiao¡¯s side together.


    "I really like Xiao, so I will never back down. Between the two of us, he has to choose. But that would be cruel to him. Why not let both of us remain in his life?"


    Sometimes, Ji Yu couldn¡¯t help but wonder if Song Xuan was mentally unstable. Otherwise, how could she say something so deranged?


    "Did you even consider my feelings when you said that? Right now, I¡¯m his girlfriend. Why should I give him up for you? Do you think there¡¯s any possibility for the two of you at this point?"


    From the current situation, it didn¡¯t seem like they even had the basics of a connection anymore.


    "Don¡¯t you feel any shame when you say things like that? Of course, feel free to keep talking ¡ª I¡¯m not bothered. But if you want me to agree to this, it¡¯s absolutely impossible."


    Some things needed to be made clear.

 Chapter 227: Coercion

    <h4>Chapter 227: Chapter 227: Coercion</h4>


    Song Xuan was already in a somewhat incoherent state.


    When she heard this sentence, her emotions began to crumble.


    "How could I possibly lose Xiao? Don¡¯t try to scare me. I don¡¯t believe a single word you¡¯re saying!"


    Ji Yu looked at her crazed state, unsure whether she was just putting on a show or if her earlier condition had been a mere coincidence.


    What kind of luck did Gu Qixiao have to be surrounded by people who were all a little deranged?


    "Just send them both straight to the hospital."


    Both of their conditions seemed off; Ji Yu wasn¡¯t sure if it was entirely mental instability but decided it wasn¡¯t worth her time to dwell on them.


    She still had other matters to attend to.


    When she saw the patient in front of her, her eyes filled with pity.


    "Why didn¡¯t youe earlier?"


    By this stage, things had deteriorated so much that it was hard to return them to their original state.


    The other person smiled bitterly.


    "I wanted toe to you earlier, but I didn¡¯t even know this was an option before now. I had no idea what to do. When I came to you today, I was already mentally prepared. I know my face may never fully recover."


    She had sought help from many doctors before, but none had the skill or results that Ji Yu¡¯s clinic seemed capable of offering.


    "Your face can only be restored up to eighty percent," Ji Yu had conducted a brief analysis and concluded this as the best oue.


    "Recovering eighty percent is already beyond my expectations. I¡¯m incredibly grateful that you¡¯re willing to perform this surgery, but... you¡¯re pregnant. Can you even safely do this?"


    The woman looked at her with gratitude but also visible concern for her health.


    "Ms. Jiang, I¡¯d love nothing more than to see your wless face back on the big screen. So even though I¡¯m pregnant, I¡¯ll perform this surgery for you."


    She admired her patient¡¯s previously perfect face immensely.


    Though it was regrettable that this face might not be as perfect afterward.


    But that didn¡¯t stop her from appreciating beauty.


    Upon hearing these words, Jiang Yaohuan couldn¡¯t help but shed tears.


    "I¡¯ll definitely return to the stage I¡¯ve always loved."


    She had lived through so much and would never give up so easily.


    She was profoundly thankful for Ji Yu¡¯s help.


    "If you ever need anything in the future, don¡¯t hesitate toe to me. I will never forget what you¡¯ve done for me."


    As long as her face could return to some semnce of normalcy, that was all that really mattered to her.


    Ji Yu had postponed many surgeries recently, but this one was something she didn¡¯t want to dy.


    When Gu Qixiao learned about this, he was deeply worried.


    "Yu, I know how much you feel for Jiang Yaohuan¡¯s case, but you¡¯re carrying a child. You shouldn¡¯t be doing this kind of thing."


    He wasn¡¯t trying to restrict her freedom; he only wanted to express that this wasn¡¯t something she ought to be doing in her current condition.


    "But this is my job. It¡¯s also my passion. From the very beginning, I only wanted to help restore these beautiful faces to their natural state."


    In Ji Yu¡¯s mind, there was never any point in life where work had to stop.


    Especially in her current situation, there wasn¡¯t much to agonize over.


    "I¡¯ll have Tian apany me in the operating room to ensure everything goes smoothly. I promise, I¡¯ll be fine. Trust me."


    Her attitude towards this matter was incredibly serious, reflecting her deep love for her profession.


    On this issue, she wasn¡¯t willing topromise at all.


    Gu Qixiao appeared very helpless; he didn¡¯t know what else to say. After all, this was the thing she loved most. Trying to stop her felt like stifling her passions.


    "Then promise me, if you feel even the slightest bit unwell, you¡¯lle out immediately and stop pushing yourself."


    "Alright, don¡¯t worry. If I feel unwell, I¡¯ll leave the operating room myself. I wouldn¡¯t need you to remind me. Pushing myself too hard will only dy the procedure." She was well aware of this and would never force herself through a surgery.


    In the event of an ident, the patient¡¯s face could be irreparably harmed.


    That would be the ultimate humiliation for her as a professional.


    "By the way, I haven¡¯t asked you yet¡ªwhen did you start taking action against Li Yu?"


    This matter truly came as a surprise to her.


    "From the moment I knew you were safe, I was already nning to deal with him. What he did was unforgivable, so I could never let him off that easily."


    When he spoke, his gaze carried a hint of cold determination.


    In his eyes, nothing was more important than Ji Yu¡¯s safety.


    At this point, he felt it necessary to make Li Yu pay an equivalent price.


    Ji Yu hadn¡¯t expected him to have started plotting so early, but she agreed that dealing with Li Yu was the right decision.


    Recently, there had been no news from Li Yu. She wondered if that meant he had silently epted what she¡¯d told him before.


    "If he stops bothering me, we should just call everyone back. Leave him some room to breathe; no need to push too hard. Cornering someone too much can make themsh out. A rabbit will bite when it¡¯s desperate, and a dog will jump over a wall when cornered. We must leave some space; otherwise, both sides will end up getting hurt."


    Gu Qixiao followed her words almost without question.


    "Yu, don¡¯t worry. If he shows signs of giving up, I¡¯ll pull back. Besides, to me, your well-being is the most important thing. Anything regarding him isn¡¯t particrly urgent to deal with."


    In his eyes, Li Yu wasn¡¯t significant at all. The only reason he had threatened him in the first ce was that he¡¯d managed to exploit a moment of weakness.


    "Yu, all you need to focus on is your own matters. Leave the rest to me. I promise, I won¡¯t let anything happen to you."


    Ji Yu never saw herself as someone who needed protection. But now, for some reason, she suddenly felt her heart stir.


    "Gu Qixiao, if you¡¯re always this good to me, aren¡¯t you afraid that one day I¡¯ll be overly dependent on you and stop wanting to do anything myself?"


    She was seriously reflecting on this thought.


    It wasn¡¯t an easy thing to admit.


    "If I¡¯m giving you my shoulder to lean on, it means I intend to stay by your side forever."


    As he said this, his mind wandered back to Ji Yu¡¯s ex-husband.


    "I won¡¯t abandon you like that man did."


    Ji Yu had been deeply moved, but hearing this, she quickly wiped her tears away. This wasn¡¯t a topic they should continue discussing; it could easily disrupt their growing bond.


    "Every time you bring up my ex, you instinctively avoid the topic afterward. Does this person really mean that much to you?"

 Chapter 228: Misunderstanding

    <h4>Chapter 228: Chapter 228: Misunderstanding</h4>


    Ji Yu truly didn¡¯t know what to say. Should she just say that this ex-husband is him?


    If she didn¡¯t say it, it seemed it could easily lead to unnecessary misunderstandings.


    "Talking about this ex-husband makes me feel repulsed. After all, I don¡¯t have much of a rtionship with this person. The two of us haven¡¯t even met face to face." She could only choose apromise and gently ry the matter to him.


    She hoped he could remember this part of the past.


    After all, their experiences seemed so simr; it would be easy to figure it out.


    Unfortunately, Gu Qixiao clearly didn¡¯t have such a keen sense in this area.


    "Since you don¡¯t want to hear about it, I won¡¯t bring him up again in the future." Gu Qixiao felt somewhat ufortable inside but also knew Ji Yu didn¡¯t like hearing about this ex-husband.


    "It¡¯s not that I don¡¯t want to hear it. I just think it¡¯s a bit unfair to you. Why not talk about your ex-wife instead? That way, the two of us can be more even-handed."


    As soon as she said this, Gu Qixiao mmed uppletely.


    Actually, it wasn¡¯t something he couldn¡¯t talk about; it¡¯s just that the things back then were rather unpleasant for him.


    "What? Are you afraid to speak now too?"


    "It¡¯s not that I¡¯m afraid to talk about it. It¡¯s just that we never actually met, and I did wrong by her." He didn¡¯t remember much of what had happened back then, but he still remembered the words his father had said at the time.


    "So you do have it in you to y the role of a scumbag, huh?"


    "How is that possible? It¡¯s just that at the time, too many things held me back. Plus, I didn¡¯t know this person at all, which is why I made such a stupid decision. Looking back now, no matter what, I should have cleared things up first."


    But the affair was long over, and he didn¡¯t know where his ex-wife was either. There was no point in revisiting it.


    "Yu, I would never let you down, ever."


    Ji Yu felt a bit helpless. She had exined things so clearly, yet he still couldn¡¯t figure it out. She could only wait until the family meeting to reveal the truth.


    "Gu Qixiao, if you were to meet your ex-wife, wouldn¡¯t that be quite the surprise?"


    Gu Qixiao thought she was just jealous and didn¡¯t take her suggestion seriously. Instead, heforted her.


    "No matter what happened in the past, it¡¯s all ancient history now. You are my present and my only one. I will never let you down."


    Seeing how he couldn¡¯t guess who his ex-wife was at all, Ji Yu decided to simply keep quiet.


    "By the way, what¡¯s your rtionship with Ling Xia? Why did she say you secretly liked her?"


    This was something Ji Yu didn¡¯t want to rely on their one-sided ims to conclude. After all, they both seemed a little crazy, and who knew if their words were true or false? It was better to rify directly.


    "When did I ever secretly like her?" Gu Qixiao disyed a thoroughly confused expression,pletely unaware of such a rumor.


    Especially after hearing about Ling Xia approaching her, his expression darkened.


    "She can be extremely obsessed at times. Whenever we encountered her, we tried to keep our distance. She didn¡¯t harm you in any way, did she?"


    He carefully scrutinized Ji Yu¡¯s condition from head to toe.


    Only after confirming that she was fine did he breathe a sigh of relief.


    "Why do you seem so particrly concerned about this? It¡¯s not a big deal, really."


    She had initially been puzzled, so she asked about the situation. Now, upon reflection, it didn¡¯t seem like something that needed inquiry.


    Such things couldn¡¯t possibly be true.


    "Yu, I¡¯m very d you came to ask me."


    This proved there was no major rift between the two of them. Clearing the air was better than anything else.


    Ji Yu addressed the matter with genuine seriousness.


    "Ever since you brought it upst time, I¡¯ve realized we shouldmunicate properly instead of using a confrontational tone to hurt each other."


    Such events, having happened once, wouldn¡¯t ur a second time.


    Both of them were reasonable people who didn¡¯t insist on a battle of life or death.


    She had initially intended to continue speaking but then received a call from Feng Qinqin.


    "What?!?" Her face instantly darkened.


    She didn¡¯t think twice, quickly putting on a coat and rushing toward the door.


    Gu Qixiao noticed something was wrong and quickly stepped forward to support her.


    "Yu, don¡¯t get so agitated. Let me go with you. Tell me where you need to go, and I¡¯ll drive you there. Okay?"


    He tried his best to calm her down. It was his first time seeing Ji Yu so worked up¡ªsomething serious must have happened for her to behave this way.


    "Take me to the hospital. Hurry, get me to the hospital." Tears were already welling up in her eyes, and she looked incredibly anxious. Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t dare dy and took her straight to the hospital.


    After arriving at the hospital, he finally learned what had happened¡ªit turned out Madam Ji had been in a car ident.


    "How could this happen so suddenly? What exactly happened?"


    "We don¡¯t know the specifics yet; the police are already investigating the cause of the ident." Ji Yuanzhou¡¯s emotional state wasn¡¯t great either, and it was evident in his tone.


    Ji Yu¡¯s face turned pale as she recalled Li Yu¡¯s threats back then.


    "It must be because of me that things turned out this way. Why didn¡¯t I take Li Yu¡¯s threats seriously back then?"


    "Yu, calm down. This isn¡¯t your fault. And if you don¡¯t want to do something you dislike, no one can force you." Gu Qixiao, worried about her condition, stepped forward to hold her in his arms.


    Nestled in his embrace, Ji Yu gradually regained a semnce of rationale.


    "I must find out exactly what¡¯s going on." She couldn¡¯t believe things had escted to this point.


    She had to investigate the truth of the incident and find out what motives were at y.


    "Yuyu, let¡¯s wait until Auntie¡¯s surgery is finished first. I don¡¯t think her condition is as bad as we imagined." Though damages certainly existed.


    Feng Qinqin, having been beside Ji Yuanzhou from the beginning, understood how fragile he was now.


    "I understand. After the surgery is done, once I¡¯ve seen Mom¡¯s condition, I will immediately investigate the truth behind this. I absolutely won¡¯t let the culprit of this incident get away with it." Ji Yu¡¯s approach to the matter was deadly serious, showing no inclination topromise.

 Chapter 229: Madam Ji Has an Accident

    <h4>Chapter 229: Chapter 229: Madam Ji Has an ident</h4>


    Fortunately, the surgery went very smoothly.


    They waited outside for five hours before the operation finally ended.


    After learning that Madam Ji was no longer in life-threatening danger, they all breathed a sigh of relief.


    "You should all go back and rest now. I¡¯ll stay here and watch over things," Mr. Ji said, clearly shaken but still trying to reassure his children, encouraging them to rest.


    Ji Yu shook her head. "Dad, I can¡¯t possibly feel at ease until I¡¯ve gotten to the bottom of this. Besides, I need to investigate the truth behind this incidentter."


    Today, she had to uncover the truth¡ªthere was no trace of hesitation in her resolve.


    Gu Qixiao had already arranged for someone to follow up with the police on the matter.


    ording to the current investigation, this ident seemed to indeed be a random mishap.


    But Ji Yu could never believe this was just an ident. Not when Li Yu had just threatened her, and then this incident happened. How could such a coincidence exist?


    They all stopped by the hospital room to check on Madam Ji¡¯s condition. Seeing that she was rtively stable, they were finally able to let out a breath of relief.


    Mr. Ji also preferred to stay by Madam Ji¡¯s side alone, so he encouraged the children to go home and rest.


    None of them were in a good mood.


    Ji Yu¡¯s pale face was enough to make anyone feel an ache in their heart.


    "Yu, let¡¯s go back first, alright? I¡¯ve already arranged for someone to follow up with the police, and we¡¯ll definitely find evidence in the end."


    "I want to investigate this myself. This matter is far too important to me," Ji Yu replied firmly, her focus unwavering. All she cared about was uncovering the culprit behind this.


    Ji Yuanzhou also wanted to find out the truth, so the group decided to head to the police station together.


    The police were at a loss about this case as well. The evidence they¡¯d gathered so far suggested that it was simply an ident.


    "It¡¯s possible that some unusual circumstances led to the crash. Honestly, idents like this aren¡¯t umon. You don¡¯t need to entertain conspiracy theories," one officer exined.


    But no matter what he said, the group refused to believe this exnation.


    "If that¡¯s the case, can I take a look at the gathered evidence?" Despite Ji Yu¡¯s pale face, she still came across as reliable at this moment.


    In her heart, this matter was of utmost importance.


    The police, left with no other choice, handed over the evidence they had gathered so far.


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t say anything else in front of them, choosing instead to wait until they returned home before bringing up what Li Yu had said before.


    Her hands trembled as she held her tea cup.


    "I never thought they would target Mom and Dad. This is my fault; I was careless. If I had known this would happen, I would¡¯ve done something to prepare. If I had, none of this would¡¯ve happened."


    She was visibly consumed by guilt and self-reproach, but none of the others present thought she was at fault.


    "Yu, this isn¡¯t your fault. From the start, we¡¯ve all known you¡¯d never align yourself with people like that. Everything you¡¯ve done has been right, and we¡¯re all behind you."


    It was those despicable people who were to me.


    Although Ji Yuanzhou was both mentally and physically exhausted, he trusted that Ji Yu was someone capable of sound judgment.


    "Just because you¡¯ve done nothing wrong doesn¡¯t mean we¡¯d ever think otherwise," he reassured her. This matter inherently had nothing to do with her actions.


    The siblings were resolute in uncovering the truth, unwilling to ept this as just a casual ident.


    Gu Qixiao initially wanted to help but respected their decision that this was a Ji family matter and no one else should intervene.


    "Gu Qixiao, I don¡¯t mean anything by it; it¡¯s just that this concerns our parents. This matter is too important for us, so we can¡¯t let others handle it," Ji Yu said.


    It was their responsibility as their children¡ªthere was no questioning that.


    Gu Qixiao understood her feelings and simply ensured that whatever help he could offer was arranged for them.


    After a long, restless night, everyone was exhausted, especially Ji Yu, who was pregnant and even more worn out.


    "Next time, make sure to get some proper rest. If Mom saw how pale you look, she¡¯d be heartbroken."


    Ji Yuanzhou ruffled her hair with a faint, strained smile on his face, clearly hoping she would rest instead of continuing to wear herself out.


    "Let¡¯s leave the rest for tomorrow."


    Seeing his concern, Ji Yu could only return to her room to lie down for a bit, nning to resume her search for evidence after waking up.


    Gu Qixiao, worried something might happen to her, stayed by her side to take care of her.


    Late at night, he heard a noise downstairs. Heading down, he found it was Ji Yuanzhou.


    Ji Yuanzhou was surprised to see him still awake.


    "Is Yu alright? Why aren¡¯t you resting yet?" he asked.


    "I heard something and came to check on it. Yu¡¯s fine; I just couldn¡¯t feel at ease leaving her alone, so I¡¯m watching over her while she sleeps." Gu Qixiao noticed the ss of wine in Ji Yuanzhou¡¯s hand and knew he must be feeling deeply troubled.


    "Since you¡¯re up, have a drink with me."


    Clearly burdened, Ji Yuanzhou needed someone to confide in.


    "How could I ever me Yu for this? I know it has nothing to do with her, but I can¡¯t help the thoughts creeping into my head. Drinking is the only way I can silence them for a while."


    The strong front he had been putting on earlier was a facade. How could he trulye to terms with the fact his mother was hurt?


    Gu Qixiao understood the conflict in his heart and didn¡¯t hold it against him.


    "Maybe getting drunk isn¡¯t a bad idea," he suggested.


    The two of them, who usually appeared to sh, found themselves sharing a drink for the first time, leading to a somewhat awkward atmosphere.


    "Drinking with you isn¡¯t as unbearable as I¡¯d imagined," Ji Yuanzhou admitted.


    He had to concede that his previous animosity toward Gu Qixiao stemmed from the fact that he once had feelings for Ji Yu.


    But that was all in the past; there was no need to dwell on it anymore.


    "I often wonder what will happen between you and Yu down the line. The two of you are a perfect match," he said.


    And so, he had retreated into the role of an older brother.


    Thankfully, this choice had led him to find someone else he truly cherished.


    "You and Feng Qinqin are a good match too," Gu Qixiao replied, ying the part of a quietpanion.


    Still, his concern for Ji Yu made him asionally check on her upstairs.


    "Yu¡¯s not a child. There¡¯s no need for you to worry so much about her," Ji Yuanzhou said, slightly exasperated by the behavior.

 Chapter 230: The Child

    <h4>Chapter 230: Chapter 230: The Child</h4>


    "Although she¡¯s not a child, this incident has hit her very hard. I can only stay by her side and try my best to keep her from being so heartbroken."


    There wasn¡¯t much else he could do¡ªonly offer this meager care to ease her pain.


    "Honestly, before this, I always thought you were just toying with Yu¡¯s feelings."


    After all, the feelings between you both seemed to have developed far too suddenly.


    But looking at the situation now, if he were truly a deceiver, then perhaps he¡¯s even deceived himself into believing it.


    "Have a proper drink with me tonight."


    The two of them drank aimlessly, exchanging few words.


    Deep down, both were well aware that this matter couldn¡¯t be med on anyone.


    Least of all Ji Yu.


    "I¡¯ll investigate the true culprit behind this matter. You just need to take care of Yu. She tends to act rashly when facing a situation like this."


    Although Ji Yu usually carried herself calmly and methodically, whenever anything involved her family, her impulsiveness would take over.


    "I understand." Gu Qixiao also wasn¡¯t entirely sure he could hold her back.


    After all, Ji Yu had been acting incredibly impulsively over the past few days.


    In just one night, she had already made up her mind about how to deal with Li Yu.


    "Whether or not Li Yu is responsible for this remains uncertain, but he definitely won¡¯t escape unscathed."


    Ji Yuanzhou usually came across as mild-tempered, but when someone dared to harm his family, there was no way he¡¯d sit back and do nothing.


    The two of them drank until dawn.


    Ji Yu actually woke up in the middle of the night.


    She stared around in confusion.


    She wished so desperately that everything fromst night had been nothing more than a bad dream.


    But when she saw the two drunken figures downstairs, she knew that this wasn¡¯t a dream.


    "Why did you two drink so much?" She stepped forward, trying to help them up, but Gu Qixiao, worried about the baby in her belly, immediately called for a servant.


    "You¡¯re still pregnant, so don¡¯t make any sudden movements. You need to rest properly."


    Even in his drunken state, he hadn¡¯t forgotten the need to protect her.


    Ji Yu¡¯s eyes reddened slightly. She was incredibly vulnerable at this moment, and hearing these words stirred something deep within her.


    Once the two men were helped back to their rooms, she followed Gu Qixiao into his room.


    Gu Qixiao still had some semnce of awareness. Seeing her follow him, he appeared a bit surprised.


    "Yu, you should rest well too. I¡¯m fine, and by tomorrow morning I¡¯ll probably be clear-headed again." He smiled, trying tofort her.


    But Ji Yu shook her head. "I just had a nightmare. I dreamt that everyone around me left me. I don¡¯t know why I would dream something like that... I just don¡¯t want to be alone right now."


    Perhaps this incident had simply impacted her too deeply, leading to such thoughts.


    "No one around you would abandon you. At the very least, I would never leave your side. Neither would your brother¡ªhe doesn¡¯t me you for this. They¡¯re just upset and decided to have a few drinks to cope."


    He gently wiped away the tears from the corners of Ji Yu¡¯s eyes.


    "Don¡¯t be sad anymore. To see you sad... hurts me far more than you could ever imagine. Your tears are the most powerful weapon against me." He couldn¡¯t bear to watch the woman he loved continue crying.


    "If you feel uneasy, I can help you handle this matter. Do you trust me?"


    He held her in his arms and softlyforted her.


    Ji Yu wasn¡¯t entirely sure what she felt inside¡ªshe just knew that the pain was unbearable, as if crying might somehow relieve the difort within.


    Gu Qixiao seemed to understand this as well, so he didn¡¯t attempt to persuade her to stop crying.


    "If you feel this hurt, then cry it all out with me here. Perhaps that might make things a little better."


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t know what else to say¡ªshe only knew that the emotions inside her made her want to cry. In Gu Qixiao¡¯s arms, she could let it out freely.


    As her sobbing gradually quieted and her exhaustion became apparent, Gu Qixiao covered her with a nket while holding her close. He whispered gently, "If you¡¯re tired from crying, get some rest. I¡¯ll stay here with you; I won¡¯t leave you¡ªnever."


    Everything the two of them had gone through together was real.


    Leaning into his embrace, Ji Yu finally felt some semnce offort.


    No one truly rested well that night. They both keenly felt each other¡¯s pain.


    By morning, everyone pretended as if nothing had happened, wearing expressions that suggested they were coping.


    "Brother, what¡¯s your n to investigate this matter?" She knew she couldn¡¯t walk away from it.


    "I n to begin with Li Yu. After all, he had threatened you and made those remarks before¡ªthere¡¯s a good chance he¡¯s behind this."


    Ji Yu also wanted to start with Li Yu.


    "Then let the two of us go together. I¡¯ve got nothing else on my te right now." She knew she wouldn¡¯t be able to focus on anything else until this was resolved.


    "Yu, you need proper rest. And you¡¯re still pregnant. Don¡¯t you realize your current condition means you shouldn¡¯t be making sudden movements?" Ji Yuanzhou sighed, knowing how stubborn his sister could be.


    "Even if you don¡¯t think of yourself, you should consider Gu Qixiao. This child belongs to the two of you. If anything were to happen to you, it would deeply hurt him."


    The two of them had fought so hard to be together¡ªhow could they let such an incident lead to something disastrous?


    Ji Yu hesitated, knowing full well how important this child was.


    Over time, it had already be part of her vision for the future.


    If something truly went wrong, no one would feel the pain of a mother quite like she would.


    Gu Qixiao could see what was on her mind. He knew how much she cherished the child and how much she cared about him. That was already enough.


    "I¡¯ll go with her, and I won¡¯t let Yu be in any situation where she could be hurt."


    Ji Yu shook her head. "This matter has nothing to do with you. It¡¯s our family¡¯s business. And if you get involved, it might stir up unnecessary trouble."


    Resolving this would undoubtedly take careful measures.


    "I don¡¯t want this to affect your work. I know you¡¯ve been incredibly busytely."


    They should be supportive of one another.


    There was no need to drag each other down because of this issue.

 Chapter 231 Helping

    <h4>Chapter 231: Chapter 231 Helping</h4>


    "Yu, your matter is extremely important to me. There¡¯s no way I¡¯d prioritize work over you. Work can be dealt with at any time, and my dad can help with it."


    Back when he hadn¡¯t inherited the family business, thepany was managed by Mr. Gu.


    He gently ruffled her hair. "This situation isn¡¯t asplicated as you imagine. Besides, I can¡¯t rest easy about your safety. If I return to work, I won¡¯t be able to focus fully."


    How could he feel at ease working when he¡¯s so worried about her?


    "Alright, the two of you don¡¯t need to argue anymore. I¡¯ll handle the rest of this. Stay put and try not to let this affect you."


    Ji Yuanzhou was resolute in his stance on this matter.


    Ji Yu initially wanted to say something more, but his expression made it clear how upset he was inside.


    She could only keep quiet for the moment and refrained from arguing further.


    But there was no way she could just forget about this matter so quickly.


    When she returned to the hospital, Gu Qixiao was already by her side.


    "Yu, just go ahead and do whatever you need to. I know you won¡¯t give up so easily."


    He understood her better than anyone and certainly wouldn¡¯t stand in her way.


    Ji Yu looked at him in surprise, seemingly puzzled as to how he knew what was in her heart.


    Gu Qixiao smiled and pinched her nose.


    "Your expression told me you won¡¯t let this go. Let¡¯s check on Auntie¡¯s condition first, alright?"


    He knew Madam Ji¡¯s condition was improving and hoped he could persuade Ji Yu to feel reassured.


    As Ji Yu walked into the hospital room, she felt uneasy, expecting something she¡¯d rather not witness.


    Thankfully, things went smoothly.


    Even though Madam Ji was still unconscious, her condition seemed far better than before.


    Mr. Ji noticed theming and knew they were determined to continue their investigation.


    "You two shouldn¡¯t exhaust yourselves over this. Your brother can take care of the investigation," Mr. Ji said, looking weary, having evidently not rested the entire night.


    "Dad, I¡¯m worried this happened because of me. I can¡¯t just look the other way; this pain is unbearable for me."


    Just thinking that they might be the reason Madam Ji had the car ident made it impossible for her to let this go.


    "Yuyu, you¡¯re always taking others¡¯ mistakes upon yourself. None of us have ever med you. This isn¡¯t your fault. We trust all the decisions you¡¯ve made."


    No one would pass me intended for someone else onto their own family.


    She understood this, but when such a thing truly happened to her, it was impossible to let it go.


    "Gu, please take good care of Yuyu. This was never something she should have to bear alone," Mr. Ji pleaded.


    Everyone sympathized with Ji Yu.


    She alone was fixated on Madam Ji¡¯s condition.


    When they left, Ji Yu was visibly distracted.


    "Yu, if you¡¯re upset, talk to me. Don¡¯t bottle everything up¡ªit¡¯ll only make you feel worse."


    But no matter who she talked to, they wouldn¡¯t understand, insisting it wasn¡¯t her fault.


    "Gu Qixiao, I¡¯m so miserable. I don¡¯t understand why things turned out this way. Was my original decision really without fault?"


    She had fallen into deep self-doubt.


    And at that precise moment, Li Yu decided to rub salt in the wound.


    His first words to her on the phone were, "So, how do you like my little ¡¯gift¡¯? Satisfied?"


    His tone was arrogant, and his hint ofughter was unmistakable.


    Ji Yu clenched her teeth in anger at him.


    "I knew it was you! No matter why you hurt my mother, you and I can only be enemies now."


    She refused to let the person who harmed her mother continue to exist in this world.


    "Miss Ji, why get so worked up?" He was utterly indifferent, as if it were no big deal and her anger was unwarranted.


    "You put my mother in this state¡ªhow could I not be upset?"


    "She¡¯s merely a stepmother. What¡¯s so great about her? I can help you find your biological mother. Don¡¯t you want to meet her?" He seemed well-informed about Ji Yu¡¯s personal matters.


    But he had grossly misjudged how much the Ji family meant to Ji Yu. "Who do you think you are, to insult my mother? My biological mother has nothing to do with me; we¡¯ve never even met."


    She wouldn¡¯t abandon her closest bond for someone she¡¯d never known.


    The Ji family had always treated her well, and she remembered that vividly.


    Ji Yu had previously made it clear how deep her feelings for the Ji family ran. She wouldn¡¯t turn her back on them because of anyone else¡¯s actions.


    "Li Yu, you¡¯ll pay for what you¡¯ve done." Any chance for reconciliation between them was utterly lost.


    She refused to let someone who harmed her loved ones continue living.


    Li Yu finally realized the gravity of the situation, though heforted himself by thinking Ji Yu wouldn¡¯t go so far, considering her biological mother.


    "And you¡¯re just going to ignore your biological mother? She should be important to you too."


    "Even if she¡¯s alive, it wouldn¡¯t stop me from seeing you dead," Ji Yu said with a smile.


    The statement stunned Li Yu.


    It was the first time he¡¯d seen Ji Yu like this¡ªso furious.


    "You¡¯re definitely different from the others. Still, do you think killing me will be that easy?"


    "Let¡¯s see, Li Yu," Ji Yu said coldly, her expression filled with icy rage.


    There was no chance of repairing their rtionship now.


    After hanging up the phone, she took a moment to calm herself.


    Gu Qixiao watched her with a pained expression, knowing she must be suffering deeply these days. But some matters required careful nning.


    "Yu, no matter what you want to do, I¡¯ll always support you and help you in any way I can," he said, showing his unwavering devotion.


    Ji Yu shook her head, signaling that she would handle this on her own.


    Just because she seemed passive before didn¡¯t mean shecked the ability to act.

 Chapter 232: Surgery Postponed

    <h4>Chapter 232: Chapter 232: Surgery Postponed</h4>


    However, she did not forget to exin the surgery situation to Jiang Yaohuan clearly.


    "Gu Qixiao, you should go and take care of your own business first. I¡¯ll go review everything again. After I handle things, the two of us can meet up."


    Gu Qixiao was somewhat uneasy about leaving her alone. After dropping her off at the hospital, he finally departed.


    Jiang Yaohuan had already been waiting for a while.


    Seeing Ji Yu¡¯s haggard appearance, Jiang Yaohuan was taken aback.


    "Doctor Ji, what¡¯s happened to you?"


    "I¡¯ve encountered some issues recently, so the surgery might need to be postponed for a while. But don¡¯t worry¡ªI will make sure your operation is sessful."


    She was very confident about this matter, but she also needed to deal with Li Yu, and many things were inconvenient for her to handle personally.


    "This..."


    "I understand this is very important to you as well, but until this matter is resolved, I cannot carry out a quality surgery." With other things weighing on her, Ji Yu knew she could not perform optimally.


    Jiang Yaohuan understood this logic and could only nod, indicating his willingness to ept the dy.


    "Doctor Ji, if there¡¯s anything I can help with, feel free to let me know¡ªI might be able to assist."


    "Thank you for your concern, but this isn¡¯t something you should look into," Ji Yu replied with a smile.


    Though her expression showed a smile, her eyes betrayed no warmth.


    Jiang Yaohuan could see this was something likely very significant¡ªotherwise, she wouldn¡¯t act this way.


    Normally, Ji Yu was very reserved and reluctant to leverage her connections. But since the opposition had alreadye knocking so tantly, it was time to show them that some people should not be provoked.


    She dialed a highly unfamiliar number.


    The person on the other end of the line sounded thrilled to receive her call.


    "Doctor Ji, what brings you to contact me? Has something happened? Whatever you need, just say the word, and I¡¯ll handle it for you."


    "I need you to take care of someone for me," Ji Yu said bluntly, avoiding any unnecessary conversation.


    If he sought harm against her mother¡¯s life, then she would ensure his own demise first.


    "That¡¯s an easy task. Doctor Ji, just send me his details in a bit."


    The person was incredibly confident in handling such matters and promised to resolve everything thoroughly.


    Ji Yu wasted no time and had Hong send all the information on Li Yu to her phone.


    The recipient confirmed receipt with an "OK" gesture.


    "Doctor Ji, if you have time, we should hang out together sometime."


    "If the chance arises, sure." Over the years, Ji Yu had interacted with all sorts of people¡ªLi Yu wasn¡¯t the only one from this line of work she had crossed paths with.


    When Gu Qixiao came to pick her up, he immediately noticed her cold demeanor.


    He wasn¡¯t quite used to seeing Ji Yu like this.


    After all, while Ji Yu usually carried a detached air, she wouldn¡¯t treat him with such frosty indifference.


    "Gu Qixiao, I¡¯m sorry. My current state might not be very favorable. If you feel my attitude right now is off, perhaps we should avoid seeing each other for the next few days."


    Ji Yu was fully aware that her state of mind was not quite right.


    A situation like this could easily lead to misunderstandings by others.


    "Why would I misunderstand you? I know you¡¯re unhappy inside right now, but I understand it¡¯s not directed at me."


    Recently, he had deployed people to surround Li Yu¡¯s base.


    Some people act heedlessly without thinking things through, but they eventually need to pay the price.


    Leaning against his shoulder, Ji Yu felt a faint sense of peace atst.


    "Gu Qixiao, thank you for understanding me." Honestly, she had already braced herself for the possibility of not being understood. After all, not everyone could ept such matters.


    "Yu, you need to trust that the bond between us isn¡¯t that shallow. And I know you¡¯re feeling miserable inside¡ªhow could I possibly demand that you smile at me?"


    What he wanted was not just a smiling Ji Yu but someone who could share a lifetime with him.


    Only in hispany could Ji Yu find any semnce of tranquility.


    Over this period, she had been pondering their rtionship, and now it seemed evident that they were indeed a perfect match.


    "Once Mom is discharged, we should meet each other¡¯s families." Honestly, even if the past hadn¡¯t been ideal, there was no need to feel awkward about it now.


    Gu Qixiao would find out about it sooner orter¡ªit was better to initiate the conversation and resolve everything upfront.


    Before Gu Qixiao could respond, someone suddenly stopped them.


    Ling Xia¡¯s gaze toward the two of them was brimming with jealousy.


    "Xiao, how could you be with someone like her? Didn¡¯t you say you only liked me? How can you be with someone else?" She was acting hysterically.


    Sincest time when she was taken to the hospital, Ji Yu had left her matter alone. But seeing her like this today only made the situation more startling.


    "How could you..."


    "Answer me! Why are you holding another woman¡¯s hand? Didn¡¯t you say you only liked me?" Ling Xia continued pressing Gu Qixiao relentlessly.


    Gu Qixiao frowned, confused as to why she was saying such things¡ªthey barely exchanged words, so where did this delusion evene from?


    Protecting Ji Yu at his side, he immediately called Assistant Li toe and settle the situation.


    Unfortunately, it seemed Ling Xia had lost controlpletely. Out of nowhere, she brandished a knife and dashed toward them.


    Already looking manic, she was now armed with a weapon, which naturally increased the danger significantly.


    Ji Yu had no idea why such an incident would ur.


    "Calm down first. If there¡¯s something you want to talk about, let¡¯s discuss it. I don¡¯t understand why you would imagine such things, but there really is nothing between us," Gu Qixiao tried reasoning with her.


    At the same time, he was worried that Ji Yu might get hurt.


    Ji Yu stood, bewildered, staring at the escting chaos.


    "You¡¯ve already gone behind my back and held another woman¡¯s hand. How can I possibly forgive you? And you say there¡¯s nothing between you? Do you believe I¡¯ll kill her right now?"


    Not only was Ling Xia out of her mind, but it was clear she couldn¡¯t be talked down.


    This reminded Ji Yu of the words Song Xuan had mentioned before.


    "Looks like Song Xuan was right¡ªshe does seem to have a mental illness, often fantasizing about a rtionship between you two and even imagining you harboring feelings for her."


    Once imagined often enough, such thoughts might start feeling real.


    To Ling Xia, this was reality.


    "Xiao, how could you abandon me? You once said you¡¯d care for me forever, but now you¡¯ve fallen in love with someone else."

 Chapter 233: Mental Illness

    <h4>Chapter 233: Chapter 233: Mental Illness</h4>


    Ji Yu had no idea what was going on with this person.


    Gu Qixiao felt a splitting headache,pletely clueless as to when something like this could have happened, and he was afraid Ji Yu might misunderstand.


    "What Yu said isn¡¯t true at all. There¡¯s nothing between us. Back when we were in school, we only exchanged a few words, that¡¯s all."


    "Watch out!" Ji Yu didn¡¯t have time to care about whether his words were true or false. She only knew that the person opposite them was holding a knife, and the two of them were in danger.


    Gu Qixiao also knew that the knife in the person¡¯s hand was extremely dangerous, so he stepped forward, intending to take it away.


    Out of nowhere, she found the strength to act, yet shockingly, the knife ended up stabbing into Gu Qixiao¡¯s arm.


    Blood flowed down his arm, snapping Ling Xia into a brief moment of rity.


    Ling Xia stared at the scene before her in utter disbelief.


    "Xiao..." How could this happen? How could she possibly hurt Gu Qixiao?


    She seemed unable to ept the reality in front of her.


    Ji Yu was also worried about Gu Qixiao¡¯s condition, but thankfully Assistant Li arrived just in time.


    Seeing the bodyguards subdue the person, Ji Yu hurriedly went over to tend to his wound.


    "Gu Qixiao, are you out of your mind? In such a dangerous situation, how could you step forward to grab the knife?" What if something really happened to him? What would she do then?


    Looking at her red-rimmed, worried eyes, Gu Qixiao felt a strange pang of joy in his heart.


    "If I didn¡¯t step forward to grab the knife, she might¡¯ve hurt you. How could I just stand there and watch you get injured?"


    To him, it actually didn¡¯t hurt that much.


    But the sight of Ji Yu¡¯s tears made the pain inexplicably sharper.


    "Yu, don¡¯t cry. I¡¯m really fine." To him, injuries like this were nothing. As long as he could protect Ji Yu, it was all worth it.


    "When did I cry? I just hate seeing wounds like this on you. Let me bandage it up first before we talk."


    Even now, she maintained her stubborn facade.


    Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t mind letting her take care of him.


    However, the equipment here was quite basic. Ji Yu was worried that the wound might get infectedter, so she decided to take him to the hospital for a proper checkup.


    "It¡¯s really no big deal. You don¡¯t have to worry so much about me." He tried to appear rxed.


    But for Ji Yu, this was not something she could just let go of.


    "How could I not worry about you? When you got hurt for me earlier, I didn¡¯t even know what to say. You really shouldn¡¯t have tried to grab her knife."


    In Ji Yu¡¯s eyes, such actions were uneptable.


    Even though they both cared deeply about each other, this was not the right way to show it.


    "Are you really so reckless that you¡¯d risk your life for love?"


    "Because I believe, if it were you, you¡¯d do the same. Besides, at that moment, protecting you was all that mattered to me."


    If he couldn¡¯t even protect the woman he loved, what right did he have to im he loved her?


    "The fact that I like you is something I¡¯ll never deny. I also want my actions to prove it. To me, what happened earlier was the only right thing to do, so you don¡¯t need to feel guilty." What he did was never in search of a reward; all he wanted was for her to be happy.


    "Gu Qixiao, you put me on such a high pedestal that you¡¯re bound to encounter all kinds of trouble. When someone uses me to threaten you, what will you do then?"


    It wasn¡¯t as if such things hadn¡¯t happened before. Thest time something like this urred, he was already threatened because of her.


    "Even if I¡¯m threatened, so what? To me, these are simply things I should bear." He didn¡¯t see anything wrong with it. Now that they were together, he was willing to give her everything; it was just a natural response to how he felt.


    Ji Yu couldn¡¯t understand how someone like him could still have such a "love-struck fool" mentality. Didn¡¯t this suggest that he had never fallen in love with anyone before?


    "Gu Qixiao, have you always been like this in past rtionships? Weren¡¯t you ever horribly taken advantage of for being so wholehearted in love?" Wouldn¡¯t someone like this end up getting hurt terribly?


    At the mention of his first love, Gu Qixiao¡¯s expression turned a bit red.


    "You¡¯re the only person I¡¯ve ever liked." He had never felt this way about anyone else before, and he didn¡¯t even have any female friends before meeting her.


    "Don¡¯t tell me... I¡¯m your first love?" Ji Yu looked at him and couldn¡¯t help butugh.


    "Yes, you¡¯re my first love. What I feel for you ispletely different from anything else. I¡¯ve never felt this kind of attraction toward anyone else before."


    This feeling made him helplessly fall for her and want to do anything for her.


    "No wonder you¡¯re such a love-struck fool." Even though Ji Yu hadn¡¯t been in a rtionship before, she knew that feelings like this required a lot of courage.


    Judging from their current situation, the two of them didn¡¯t seem to be doing too badly together.


    At the very least, neither had ever betrayed the other¡¯s feelings, and it was clear that they were incredibly important to each other.


    "Yu, sometimes you overthink things. These are matters you really don¡¯t need to overanalyze. To me, you¡¯re the one and only. And I can already tell what¡¯s in your heart."


    These things were often made evident by her actions.


    Perhaps Ji Yu thought she hid it well, but everything she did made it clear to him that she liked him too.


    Ji Yu felt a little embarrassed. She had intended to tease him, but instead, she became the one being teased.


    Still, this feeling wasn¡¯t bad. At the very least, it brought them closer together.


    "Let¡¯s talk more in the future. There¡¯s no need to keep everything bottled up. Just because I know you like me doesn¡¯t mean I won¡¯t cherish you as much."


    There really was no need for such worry.


    Gu Qixiao had always been crystal clear about Ji Yu¡¯s ce in his heart.


    As they talked, they arrived at the hospital.


    After a checkup, the doctor found that Gu Qixiao¡¯s arm was in much worse condition than they initially thought.


    "Given the current situation, he¡¯ll need to be hospitalized for a few days of observation before being discharged."


    Ji Yu naturally insisted on staying with him.


    "Yu, if you have other things to handle, go take care of them. If there¡¯s anything you need help with, just ask Assistant Li."


    He knew Ji Yu had been worried about Madam Ji recently and that she also wanted to deal with Li Yu. Handling someone like Li Yu would undoubtedly take a great deal of time and effort.


    "I¡¯ve already arranged everything on my end. There¡¯s no need for me to take care of anything else. Also, this matter is nowhere near asplicated as you think."


    There was no way she would let the man who hurt her mother get away with it.


    "He¡¯ll soon realize just how foolish his actions were."


    Her attitude about this matter was resolute.

 Chapter 234 Resolute

    <h4>Chapter 234: Chapter 234 Resolute</h4>


    Gu Qixiao initially didn¡¯t understand why she held such a belief, but when he saw Li Yu¡¯s devastating condition, he realized it was because she had already arranged everything beforehand.


    "He was far too confident, assuming I had no connections and that the people around me were all upright and principled."


    Sometimes, arrogancees with its own retribution.


    Just like now¡ªhe probably never expected her to hire an assassin to kill him, did he?


    But Li Yu¡¯s life was stubbornly resilient. Even in such a grave condition, he still managed to be saved.


    Ji Yu walked into the hospital room and couldn¡¯t help but sneer coldly as she saw his body wrapped entirely in bandages.


    "Li Yu, did you really think I was some easy target you could crush underfoot? Is that why you dared to harm my mother? Look at you now¡ªdo you finally understand what I¡¯m capable of?"


    She smiled with an expression that seemed gentle and kind, yet all he felt was bone-chilling coldness.


    His current state was indeed wretched, and he could barely utter aplete sentence.


    "There¡¯s no need for you to voice your thoughts. I already know you must be utterly miserable right now. Look at yourself¡ªdo you honestly think you¡¯ll ever be able to walk again?"


    This was, in truth, the most pitiful state someone could be in.


    After all, his current condition was even worse than dying outright.


    His eyes were swollen red with fury.


    "What, do you want to call me vicious? Why don¡¯t you think about your own actions? If you hadn¡¯t gone after my mother, would I have ever gone after you? This is the price of your own doing."


    Ji Yu had always abided by the principle: "If others don¡¯t harm me, I won¡¯t harm them."


    But since he had already gone to such lengths, wouldn¡¯t it be impolite not to strike back?


    "Ji Yu..." He finally managed to squeeze out his first words, though every syble carried seething hatred.


    It was in to see that even speaking was excruciatingly difficult for him.


    "Oh, so you can still talk? But you seem to be in a great deal of pain. Why not just end it yourself? That might make things easier for you¡ªa merciful relief from this torment."


    In his current state, there was virtually no hope of recovery.


    When the doctor walked in, they were met with this scene and couldn¡¯t help but feel worried.


    "Are you this patient¡¯s family member? Since he was admitted, no one has been here to care for him."


    How could someone like him possibly have family? And his so-called subordinates¡ªwell, they only cared about profit. There was no way they¡¯d look after a cripple like him.


    "We¡¯re not particrly close. Honestly, there¡¯s some bad blood between us. Why, is there something you need?"


    This situation truly put the medical staff in a difficult position.


    "This patient¡¯s medical expenses haven¡¯t been settled yet. Moreover, his condition is dire¡ªhe needs a family member¡¯s signature for a skin graft."


    He had suffered severe burns. Without a graft, his body would never recover properly, and his current state meant constant agony¡ªunceasing torment.


    He hadn¡¯t imagined that no one woulde to care for him. His eyes grew hollow and numb, his expression utterly despondent and bereft of hope.


    "In that case, why not just throw him out? I doubt he has any family willing to sign for him anyway."


    Ji Yu showed no sympathy for such a person. Considering the heinous acts he¡¯dmitted before, even a thousand cuts wouldn¡¯t suffice for his crimes.


    He suddenly withdrew his previously hateful gaze and looked at Ji Yu with pleading desperation, as if begging her for help.


    Ji Yu looked at him coldly, a mocking smile on her face.


    "Now you know how to beg me? What about before? Think about all the things you¡¯ve done. Why should I save you? After what you did to my mother, did you really think you¡¯d have the chance to keep living?"


    Between them existed nothing but profound hatred¡ªthere was no possibility of kindness.


    These words seemed too much for him to bear. His emotions spiraled into copse, and his physical condition deteriorated sharply as a result.


    The doctor had no choice but to initiate emergency treatment.


    Ji Yu paid them no attention, turning to leave. This man no longer had anything to do with her. Letting him live in pain like this was an even more fitting end.


    Instead of granting him a clean death, she thought it better to let him endure this wretched existence.


    Surely, this life of his was far more agonizing than death itself.


    When she returned, she happened to see Ji Yuanzhou sitting in the hospital room.


    "Yu, was that whole thing your doing?"


    "Mm." Ji Yu nodded lightly. Though she typically seemed gentle, once someone crossed her boundaries, she couldn¡¯t harbor even a shred of kindness.


    "Brother, there¡¯s no need to overthink it. He dared to touch Mom, so there¡¯s no way I could ever forgive him."


    To her, this was her final act of tenderness. And even if her biological mother were still alive, she had no desire to confront such people.


    "Yu, I just think it¡¯s not worth dirtying your hands with blood for a person like that. Even if he were to die, it wouldn¡¯t bring any benefit."


    "That¡¯s why I didn¡¯t kill him. I just had someone turn him into a cripple. Don¡¯t worry, he won¡¯t die¡ªbut what he bes afterward, I can¡¯t guarantee." Ji Yu¡¯s eyes gleamed with a trace of icy malice as she spoke.


    This punishment was enough to leave an indelible mark on him for life.


    Still, Ji Yu hadn¡¯t forgotten to express her gratitude to the one who carried out the deed.


    The man¡¯s face lit up with excitement when he saw Ji Yu.


    "Doctor Ji, there¡¯s no need for you to thank me so politely."


    Given their rtionship, he¡¯d willingly do anything for her, no matter how much.


    Ji Yu looked at him somewhat helplessly, knowing full well he¡¯d likely been waiting all this time for her toe to him for help.


    "Regardless, I¡¯m deeply grateful. I despise him, and I¡¯m thankful for your assistance. Honestly, performing surgery for you was something I should¡¯ve done¡ªit wasn¡¯t some grand favor. You don¡¯t need to remember it for so long."


    In her perspective, such favors didn¡¯t require repayment. Still, this time, she supposed she owed him one.


    The man smiled bitterly.


    "I remember that situation vividly. I went to so many people, but no one was willing to operate on me¡ªonly you epted. At the time, I truly thought I¡¯d seen an angel, so this is a debt I¡¯ll never forget."


    Whenever he recalled those moments, he couldn¡¯t help but feel a surge of gratitude toward Ji Yu.


    To him, she was like a luminous moon amid darkness, an unwavering presence that could never be extinguished.

 Chapter 235: White Moonlight

    <h4>Chapter 235: Chapter 235: White Moonlight</h4>


    "You really don¡¯t need to be so polite with me. I¡¯ve always kept what happened before in mind, and regardless of your motives for saving me, I¡¯m deeply grateful to you."


    Such things only made him happy.


    "Qin Fan, actually, there¡¯s no need for you to act this way. Didn¡¯t you already return the favor this time? There¡¯s no reason to keep behaving as if you owe me something."


    "This favor, I¡¯ll never be able to repay in my lifetime. To me, you saved my life." Qin Fan smiled helplessly.


    And deep in his heart, he¡¯d already considered Ji Yu as his own. How could he possibly let go?


    "Qin Fan, since that¡¯s the case, let me treat you to dinner someday." Ji Yu wasn¡¯t keen on using these connections; she mostly felt it would be awkward. Under such circumstances, it seemed better to maintain some distance.


    Qin Fan quickly agreed, setting the time and promising they¡¯d discuss more when they met.


    Meanwhile, Ji Yu still needed to take care of Gu Qixiao¡¯s recovery.


    "I¡¯m almost fully recovered. There¡¯s no need for me to continue staying in the hospital. Besides, the wound on my arm isn¡¯t as bad as the doctors made it sound. You don¡¯t need to worry so much about me." He knew Ji Yu had been preupied with these matterstely.


    "How could I not worry about you? The wounds on your body were all because of me. If I didn¡¯t care for you, wouldn¡¯t that make me a thankless, cold-hearted ingrate?"


    "I¡¯d much prefer you worry about me because I¡¯m your boyfriend." He smiled warmly at Ji Yu, showing no hint of anger even now.


    Ji Yu sighed, exasperated. "Gu Qixiao, your romance-obsessed brain needs treatment. Look at yourself¡ªanyone who didn¡¯t know better would think you¡¯re some kind of foolish ruler."


    But Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t see anything wrong with it. At least in his heart, this dynamic between the two of them seemed just perfect.


    "I really enjoy interacting with you this way. Doesn¡¯t it make the both of us happy?"


    Ji Yu chuckled along. "Alright then, I¡¯ll go handle your discharge paperwork in a bit. By the way, what¡¯s happening with Ling Xia? If she really does have mental health issues, she should hurry up and seek psychiatric treatment."


    Whenever she recalled what happened that day, Ji Yu couldn¡¯t help but frown. The two of them had been walking along just fine, when suddenly they¡¯d encountered such a lunatic. Truly bad luck.


    "Her situation is still unclear." Speaking of this, Gu Qixiao looked vexed too.


    "Our families are deeply intertwined in business. That¡¯s why we attended the same school and had some asional interactions. But I never imagined she had this sort of mental illness. Her family has already arrived, and it seems likely they¡¯ll take her back."


    It turned out Ling Xia only disyed this kind of psychotic possessiveness in matters rted to Gu Qixiao.


    So when the Ling family arrived, their first assumption was that Gu Qixiao had wronged their daughter.


    "Gu, given how close our families are, if you like our Xiaxia, then the two of you should be together. But Xiaxia says you¡¯ve got another woman now, and that¡¯s where you¡¯re clearly in the wrong."


    The other party spoke with great confidence, convinced that the two were a perfect match.


    Ji Yu was seated nearby. She doubted the person hadn¡¯t seen her.


    "President Ling, I think there¡¯s been some misunderstanding. It¡¯s impossible for the two of us to have the kind of rtionship you¡¯re imagining. From the beginning, we¡¯ve only been regr friends."


    Out of consideration for their business coboration, Gu Qixiao still remained fairly polite in his tone.


    "Are you saying Xiaxia would lie? I¡¯m not forcing you to remain celibate in matters of love, but don¡¯t expect anyone to interfere in the rtionship between you and Xiaxiater."


    As he spoke, he specifically nced at Ji Yu.


    Ji Yu was all too familiar with that kind of look. No wonder the two were father and daughter¡ªthey both suspected the same things.


    "There¡¯s truly a major misunderstanding here. I don¡¯t even know why Ling Xia believes we¡¯re a couple. We¡¯ve barely met before, and there¡¯s no connection of the kind you¡¯re imagining. I have only one person I love."


    Even though the other party kept pressing aggressively, Gu Qixiao was resolute on this matter, never backing down.


    Ling Baiqian couldn¡¯t hold back upon hearing this.


    "So you¡¯re saying you dare to treat our Xiaxia like this? I don¡¯t care who you like, but if you dare to hurt our Xiaxia, there¡¯ll be no end to this."


    He exuded an arrogant demeanor, looking ready to make a move against them.


    For the first time, Ji Yu realized that a father and his daughter can be so alike in character.


    Their shared trait was probably their utter disregard for reason. The words they spoke clearly hadn¡¯t been thought through, as though everything in the world must unfold ording to their wishes.


    "President Ling, could you please show some respect when you speak about me and my girlfriend? We¡¯ve been together for quite a while, and there¡¯s no need to report our matters to you."


    The two of them were enjoying their rtionship just fine now. Why would they need to answer to these people? Besides, the ims made were utterly baseless, likely stemming from the ravings of a madwoman.


    No one could ept such unfounded usations.


    "Gu Qixiao, what do you mean? Are you saying our Xiaxia is lying? Let me tell you, our Xiaxia would never lie. She spoke with conviction. How could she be ndering you?"


    Initially, Ji Yu had nned to sit back and wait for him to finish his rant, but hearing thisst statement pushed her to interject.


    "Dear sir, I don¡¯t know where you¡¯re getting this conclusion¡ªthat everything your daughter says is true while everything we say is false. We¡¯ve been together for so long; wouldn¡¯t it make sense to investigate the situation a little?"


    Their rtionship could easily be verified with a little digging.


    At that time, Ling Xia hadn¡¯t even appeared on the scene yet, proving that their rtionship predated hers.


    "Who do you think you are to speak to me? Let me tell you, I don¡¯t want anyone touching anything my daughter likes. If you continue showing up in front of me, don¡¯t me me for being rude."


    Hearing this, Ji Yu almost couldn¡¯t help butugh in anger.


    "Looks like you and your daughter truly are cut from the same cloth."

 Chapter 236 Going Mad

    <h4>Chapter 236: Chapter 236 Going Mad</h4>


    "The two of us are, of course, father and daughter. Whatever happens between you and him has nothing to do with me. Besides, what good does it do for you to have stayed by his side before? As long as your status doesn¡¯t allow you to enter the Gu family¡¯s doors, then you will never be one of them."


    Sure enough, even the double standards are consistent.


    When Gu Qixiao saw that he was making a bigger and bigger scene, he immediately became very displeased.


    "Uncle Ling, I respect you as an elder, which is why I¡¯ve been polite to you. But if you continue treating my girlfriend this way, then don¡¯t me me for not showing any courtesy."


    His attitude toward everyone was the same, but Ji Yu was an exception.


    "What do you mean by that, boy? Are you telling me that you¡¯re rejecting our Xiaxia and want to be with this woman instead? Look at her¡ªdoes someone like her even have the status to step through the Gu family¡¯s doors?"


    His stance on the matter was firm: Ji Yu¡¯s family background wasn¡¯t good enough to allow her into the Gu family.


    "You don¡¯t need to worry about this."


    The two of them would eventually inform their families, and they would also let their families know about their future ns.


    Gu Qixiao believed his family would give them their blessing. Besides, the past was in the past; there was no need to dwell on it.


    Even if things didn¡¯t work out, they had a child. For the sake of the child, the family wouldn¡¯t go too far in making things difficult for them.


    "Uncle Ling, I¡¯ve said this many times already: your attitude greatly displeases me. And I won¡¯t tolerate you using the cooperation between our families as leverage."


    If there were no feelings, there were no feelings¡ªit was that simple. If someone insane insisted on saying otherwise, there was no need to continue the conversation any further.


    The situation had escted significantly. After Ling Baiqian left, Gu Qixiao was soon called back home by his family.


    "Gu Qixiao, how about I go back with you? I¡¯m worried something unexpected might happen."


    Initially, Ji Yu hadn¡¯t nned on meeting his family so suddenly. But seeing how he stood up for her and was ready to confront them head-on, how could she just stay out of it?


    "Don¡¯t worry, Yu. Right now isn¡¯t the right time for you to meet my parents. And besides, I know that if you meet them now, it could easily lead to unnecessary misunderstandings. Leave this to me."


    If it were in the past, he would¡¯ve eagerly taken Ji Yu to meet his family. But this time, the situation was clearly different¡ªthe opposition was aggressive. It was better to resolve this first before discussing anything else.


    "Gu Qixiao, I¡¯m not at ease with you going back alone. After all, there¡¯s still a partnership between our two families. If something really happens, what am I supposed to do?"


    Seeing Ji Yu so concerned for him, Gu Qixiao suddenly felt that no matter what he had to go through, it was all worth it. At the very least, they could feel each other¡¯s love and understand that they were in this together.


    "Yu, as long as you treat me this way, it¡¯s enough. In my heart, as long as you¡¯re willing to be with me for a long time, nothing else really matters."


    Just like now, being able to stay together was already a precious gift. The other troubles seemed trivial inparison.


    "When I return, we¡¯ll have a good discussion about how to meet my family. After all, things have blown up like this¡ªthere¡¯s no way my parents won¡¯t find out about our rtionship."


    Not bringing her back now was to protect her. When he brought her backter, it would be to ensure she felt secure, so everyone would know her importance.


    "Gu Qixiao, if there¡¯s anything you need me to do, just message or call me. I¡¯ll be waiting for you anytime."


    As Gu Qixiao left, he couldn¡¯t resist nting a kiss on her forehead.


    "Yu, wait for my return."


    As long as he came back, the two of them could continue being together without further trouble.


    When Ji Yuanzhou arrived home, he saw Ji Yu looking utterly dejected. He figured something had happened with Gu Qixiao¡¯s situation, but it didn¡¯t seem to be a huge issue.


    "You¡¯ve got to believe he can handle this. This is just one of the hurdles in your love story. Once he removes the obstacle, the road ahead will be much smoother for you two."


    "I know he can handle it. It¡¯s just that I can¡¯t help but worry about him. After all, this matter is so important to both of us." How could she not worry?


    She had thought she wasn¡¯t that deeply in love before. But now she realized¡ªlove can be so overwhelming, unstoppable once it takes root.


    "Yu, you¡¯ve changed so much. I can hardly believe you¡¯ve be like this."


    It turns out that beautiful love really can transform a person.


    Ji Yu also realized that she had be more dependent and gentletely.


    "This isn¡¯t so bad, though. I have someone to rely on for now. And when he disappears one day, I¡¯ll rely on myself."


    Since they were together now, why not open up to each other? There was nothing wrong with enjoying the happiness of the present, just as they were now.


    "Yu, I wish I had your courage. At the very beginning, I didn¡¯t even know how to approach my feelings."


    When it came to love, he always seemed timid and hesitant.


    Sometimes he wondered, if he¡¯d been bolder at the start, would the oue have been different?


    "Brother, there¡¯s no need to overthink it. Given how things are now, you only need to follow your heart, and you¡¯ll see how simple everything bes."


    Ji Yu looked at him helplessly. The feelings were there between them, so whyplicate matters?


    If the feelings exist, then many challenges can be ovee easily. Even harsh words said in the past no longer held any weight now.


    "I just hope both you and Qinqin end up happy."


    Feng Qinqin had been deeply hurt in love before, making her particrly in need of a sense of security.


    Previously, Ji Yuanzhou hadn¡¯t provided her with that sense of security, so now he needed to double his efforts to make up for it.


    "All Qinqin needs is for you to show her that you¡¯re absolutely willing to spend your life with her and to prove your love for her."


    This sounded simple, but in practice, it seemed increasingly difficult.


    "I understand. Lately, I¡¯ve been doing my best to make amends for my past mistakes. I know I failed to give her the security she needed, but from now on, I¡¯ll use my love to make up for it."


    Ji Yuanzhou firmly believed that things would get better between the two of them in the future.


    "Finally, you¡¯vee to your senses." Ji Yu looked at him with a mix of exasperation and relief, knowing full well that he¡¯d still likely face quite a few challenges ahead.

 Chapter 237: Enlightenment

    <h4>Chapter 237: Chapter 237: Enlightenment</h4>


    To think that the only reason they could be together before was entirely because Feng Qinqin was insistent.


    Now, the rtionship between the two was truly exasperating.


    "I just don¡¯t know how to express the feelings of affection in my heart,"


    he said, his confusion evident. This kind of situation left one feeling deeply at a loss.


    Looking at how things had turned out, his past actions could only be seen as that of a scumbag.


    "Let¡¯s stop discussing my issues. What about things between you and Gu Qixiao? It hasn¡¯t exactly been smooth sailing. Are you sure you¡¯ve thought it through?"


    Some things could still be reconsidered, but if it came to marriage, one had to be prepared to take on familial responsibilities.


    These matters were difficult for everyone involved.


    Ji Yu nodded. "I understand. That¡¯s why I¡¯ve been seriously thinking about it during this time."


    At least for now, judging by the current situation, things appeared to be progressing sessfully.


    Her only worry was whether Gu Qixiao would face criticism when he returned this time.


    In reality, Gu Qixiao did exin everything once he got back.


    Mr. Gu furrowed his brows upon learning about Ling Xia¡¯s situation.


    "Even so, you should have given them some respect. When confronted with such matters, feeling helpless is inevitable¡ªfor them as a family, too."


    But for Gu Qixiao, such things were like climbing a mountain. "Dad, if I didn¡¯t have someone I liked, I could ept anything¡ªand even amodate others¡ªbut now I do have someone I care about."


    This kind of situation would definitely cause Ji Yu to misunderstand, and such an oue had to be avoided at all costs.


    Hearing his son confess he had feelings for someone, Mr. Gu was slightly surprised, although reflecting on Gu Qixiao¡¯s prior behavior, it wasn¡¯t entirely unexpected.


    "Since you have someone you like, why haven¡¯t you brought her back for me to see? The ones I suggested before you didn¡¯t like, but surely you approve of this one, right?"


    Clearly, he was still hung up on what had happened before.


    "I had assumed you two would naturally be fond of each other, but instead, look at this mess you¡¯ve created. Fine, have it your way¡ªfigure out what you¡¯re going to do."


    Gu Qixiao himself knew that what he¡¯d done in the past was wrong, but so much time had passed that there was no need to dwell on it anymore.


    "The person I love is undoubtedly the best match for me. I admit I was wrong in the past, but at that time, I had no other choice."


    It just so happened that during that period, those particr events unfolded, and he couldn¡¯t simply abandon Song Xuan. He could only stay by her side and take care of her.


    And that was how everything got dyed afterward.


    "You really know how to make trouble," Mr. Gu said. "I¡¯m curious now about what kind of girl you¡¯re so taken with. But don¡¯t make things too awkward. Talk with Ling Xia¡¯s family properly¡ªthere¡¯s no need to start off by saying things so harshly."


    The problem was that Gu Qixiao had no patience for such matters.


    When he saw Ling Xia, his first reaction was to ask her to exin why she imed there was something between the two of them.


    "You told me yourself, so why do this to me?" Ling Xia was fixated on this matter.


    After discovering it, she spiraled emotionally.


    She couldn¡¯t understand why he would leave her.


    "Xiao, you once said you¡¯d only ever love me. So why do you love Ji Yu now? Tell me, what¡¯s so special about her that she deserves your devotion?"


    Perhaps it was her overconfidence upon first meeting Ji Yu that now made it impossible for her to ept such an oue.


    "I¡¯ve been in love with Yu for a long time now, so all these things you¡¯re saying just leave me baffled."


    As he spoke, there was a tinge of helplessness in his tone; it was obvious her family fully believed her.


    It was as if, after saying that, he¡¯d be reduced to the image of an irresponsible scumbag.


    "Since our Xiaxia has said so, it must be true. Gu, I never expected you to treat our Xiaxia this way."


    They were visibly angry about the situation.


    Clearly, in their eyes, it was catastrophic.


    Seeing her parents stand on her side, Ling Xia let out augh. "Yes, Xiao, as long as you¡¯re willing to marry me, we¡¯d be much better together than you and Ji Yu. Look at our family¡ªwe can help you."


    She truly believed this.


    But unfortunately, Gu Qixiao couldn¡¯t care less about familial advantages.


    "So that¡¯s the reason you stabbed me?" Initially, Gu Qixiao hadn¡¯t nned on bringing this up, but seeing how she spoke as if they were on the verge of marriage, how could he agree?


    "It was a misunderstanding. I never intended to hurt you. I was just so jealous of Ji Yu. You promised me we¡¯d be together, but then you went and held hands with another woman. That was something I could never ept."


    At that moment, she hadpletely lost control of herself.


    Unfortunately, Gu Qixiao had never said any of those things before.


    "So what now? Do you want to end up in jail?" He knew the wounds on his body were enough to prove her intent to kill¡ªit wouldn¡¯t be easy for her to clear her name.


    Ling Xia¡¯s parents reacted emotionally upon hearing this and softened their stance slightly. "It was certainly an ident. Xiaxia loves you so much¡ªhow could she possibly harm you? But you¡¯re also at fault. Why did you entangle yourself with that vixen?"


    When they spoke about it, their emotions visibly red.


    But Gu Qixiao¡¯s stance on this matter had never wavered.


    "I won¡¯t press charges, but I also hope you¡¯ll take her to a hospital for evaluation. That¡¯s all I¡¯m asking. Don¡¯t you realize there¡¯s something off with how she¡¯s been actingtely?"


    Her bizarrements, meant to destroy their rtionship while fantasizing about a past that never existed¡ªanyone would find it awkward to witness such behavior.


    Gu Qixiao was not about to silently endure such a grievance.


    Hearing this, their expressions darkened, clearly uneasy and guilty.


    And this made Gu Qixiao realize instantly¡ªthey had known the truth all along but chose not to reveal it.


    He let out a coldugh. "So, it seems you two knew something all along but just didn¡¯t want to admit it. Did you think I¡¯d clean up after this mess for you?"


    Originally, he hadn¡¯t even wanted to deal with Ling Xia¡¯s issues. Suggesting they consult a doctor had been his way of genuinely helping, but their attitude made him deeply suspicious.

 Chapter 238 The Truth of the Matter

    <h4>Chapter 238: Chapter 238 The Truth of the Matter</h4>


    They were indeed aware of Ling Xia¡¯s situation, but they didn¡¯t think it was a big deal.


    "I will get to the bottom of this." Gu Qixiao wasn¡¯t someone to be trifled with. Upon discovering they had long known the truth, he didn¡¯t hold back in the slightest.


    "Wait, we can still discuss this matter further." Ling Baiqian grew anxious, realizing that if Gu Qixiao persisted in being unreasonable, the truth about his daughter would inevitably spread far and wide.


    "Even if you don¡¯t consider the friendship between the two of you as former ssmates, you should at least take into ount how long our two families have been working together. This matter absolutely cannot escte like this!" He appeared desperate, but his words wereced with threats aimed at Gu Qixiao.


    Seeing the expression on his face, Gu Qixiao immediately understood¡ªthey were starting to throw a tantrum.


    "So what you mean is, if I continue to pursue this matter, you¡¯re nning to end your coboration with the Gu family?"


    That was indeed Ling Baiqian¡¯s implication, though these words would never be openly admitted, as they could cause significant losses to his own family.


    "If that¡¯s the case, then we might as well terminate our cooperation here and now." Gu Qixiao showed no intention of humoring them.


    At the beginning, the Ling family had indeed been a decent partner, but in recent years their performance had deteriorated year after year. Who knew what issues might arise if this continued?


    For this reason, Gu Qixiao was particrly decisive in handling the matter.


    "If you don¡¯t want this partnership, then canceling it is just fine." His eyes held only frost as he spoke those words.


    Ling Baiqian was flustered upon hearing this. "What do you mean by this? After all these years of partnership between our families, is this your way of using us and discarding us once we¡¯re no longer of value?"


    He felt utterly humiliated, convinced that Gu Qixiao was doing this on purpose.


    "When you were being so aggressive back then, why didn¡¯t you tell me that you knew she had this type of illness?" Gu Qixiao wasn¡¯t particrly bothered by other matters, but forcing a marriage while hiding the truth about her condition was something unforgivable.


    Sure enough, upon hearing Gu Qixiao¡¯s words, their expressions grew increasingly guilty.


    Only Ling Xia still clung to the belief that Gu Qixiao would never treat her this way. "Xiao, I know the things you¡¯re saying now are just words spoken in anger. I don¡¯t care about any of it, but please don¡¯t act so rashly, alright?"


    She seemed to be speaking with Gu Qixiao¡¯s best interests at heart, but her past actions were far from kind.


    Gu Qixiao looked at her coldly. "What do you think?"


    The only person he ever had feelings for was one¡ªLing Xia was no one to him, just a woman lost in her own delusions.


    "Think over what I¡¯ve said. I don¡¯t have the time to argue with you all about this. I¡¯m leaving for now. Whether to pursue this matter further will depend entirely on your attitude moving forward."


    As he departed, he didn¡¯t spare Ling Xia even a nce, making it clear that he truly didn¡¯t care about her.


    Ling Xia stood in stunned silence, watching his retreating figure, still struggling to process what had just happened.


    On the other hand, Gu Qixiao couldn¡¯t be bothered to entangle himself further with these people. Instead, he headed straight to the Ji family.


    When Ji Yu saw that he appeared unscathed, she finally breathed a sigh of relief. "Gu Qixiao, I¡¯m so d you¡¯re okay."


    "What could possibly happen to me? My dad is very supportive of my decisions, and besides, what the Ling family did waspletely hical." His expression was full of disdain as he spoke about it.


    He simply couldn¡¯t wrap his mind around the Ling family.


    How could anyone do something like that and still act so self-righteous about it?


    "Yu, if youe across anyone from their family in the future, you¡¯d better be careful. If they try anything..."


    Then again, after some thought, it seemed unlikely that Ji Yu would let herself be easily bullied.


    Even so, out of habit, he still reminded Ji Yu to stay vignt and not let her guard down.


    Ji Yu had long since grown used to such reminders.


    "Still, given her situation, she might be better off seeking medical help."


    Her attitude toward the matter remained kind and forgiving.


    After all, you couldn¡¯t handle someone battling mental illness with extreme measures.


    "That¡¯s their family¡¯s issue. I don¡¯t know if they¡¯re nning to take her to a hospital or not."


    Frankly, people like that were indeed frightening.


    However, Ji Yu hadn¡¯t expected that this woman would appear before her so soon once again.


    This time, she seemed far less intense than before, almost normal on the surface. But Ji Yu, still haunted by the memory of her previous actions, instinctively tried to keep her distance.


    "You don¡¯t need to be afraid of me. I¡¯m very clear-headed now. I just want to ask¡ªwhat would it take for you to leave Gu Qixiao?"


    There seemed to be an obsessive determination about her on this issue.


    Ji Yu found her behavior inexplicable, almost absurd. "We¡¯re a legitimate couple. Who are you supposed to be?"


    "I..."


    Thinking of Gu Qixiao¡¯s icy expression, she suddenly didn¡¯t know what to call the rtionship between them. How could it havee to this?


    She had tried so hard to fight for Gu Qixiao, yet in the end, it had all turned out so terribly.


    "If you truly like him, then pursue him openly. Why resort to these kinds of tactics? Do you really think this is appropriate?"


    In the end, it only made things awkward for everyone, leaving no one¡¯s heart unscathed.


    Her eyes reddened, and she looked at Ji Yu with a mixture of envy and resentment. "You don¡¯t understand. You and the person you love are together, but I¡¯m not. I¡¯ve always been chasing after him, and yet this is how it ends for me."


    She had poured her all into trying to win his love, only for things to spiral into such a mess. How could she not feel heartbroken?


    "You have no idea how much I¡¯ve sacrificed." She cried, appearing genuinely grief-stricken.


    At least, her current mental state seemed rtively stable.


    Ji Yu really couldn¡¯t grasp what was going on with this woman.


    "So, what exactly are you jealous of? Do you think I didn¡¯t struggle step by step to get to where I am? If I let love drag me down, who knows what I¡¯d have be?"


    If the trials she and Gu Qixiao went through in their marriage had been ced on her, she might have died from frustration.


    Ji Yu never understood why some people allowed love to consume them sopletely.


    "The things you¡¯ve done really make people exasperated. I just don¡¯t get it."


    She hadn¡¯t expected Ji Yu to say such things, and her expression froze. "It¡¯s not like that. I¡¯m not fixated on love¡ªjust on one person."


    No one else made her feel that way. Only he did.

 Chapter 239: What is Liking

    <h4>Chapter 239: Chapter 239: What is Liking</h4>


    "I don¡¯t know why you¡¯re so hung up on this matter, buting to me won¡¯t do you any good. If you really want to win him over, you should try to move his heart."


    Isn¡¯t that just how things are?


    "What do you mean?" She seemed somewhat incredulous.


    In her impression, Ji Yu should stubbornly love Gu Qixiao, otherwise it would be easy for others to take him away. But now, Ji Yu said she could let herpete as she wished.


    "I knew you don¡¯t like Gu Qixiao at all. You¡¯re just pretending to."


    "Suit yourself." Ji Yu wasn¡¯t in the mood to refute these things anymore. There were some words that were better left unsaid.


    "You..."


    Her casual attitude did arouse envy. She didn¡¯t know what to say to Ji Yu, but judging from Ji Yu¡¯s expression, it was indeed difficult to discern what she truly thought.


    "I¡¯ve said before, what¡¯s mine will never run away. The person I like won¡¯t betray me either. So, what you¡¯re saying holds no meaning for me." She had that confidence and wasn¡¯t afraid of what mighte. No matter how much they said, they wouldn¡¯t be able to take Gu Qixiao.


    "I have other matters to deal with, and I don¡¯t have the patience to keep talking to you about this. If there¡¯s a simr issue in the future, don¡¯te to me again." She didn¡¯t want to keep getting tangled up with these people.


    After finishing, Ji Yu turned and left, but didn¡¯t notice the malice in the other¡¯s eyes.


    However, it was evident that even if this matter continued in such a direction, there wouldn¡¯t be a good oue.


    When she told Gu Qixiao about it, Gu Qixiao noticeably didn¡¯t believe her. But on second thought, such words did sound like something Ji Yu would say.


    "Yu¡¯s meaning is obvious, isn¡¯t it? She doesn¡¯t want to keep entangled with you over this matter. I don¡¯t like you, and she¡¯s not afraid of youing to me."


    His feelings for Ji Yu were solid enough that none of these matters would be an issue.


    He looked at the person before him, calm and unwavering. "The rtionship between Yu and me doesn¡¯t need anyone else meddling. I love her, and there¡¯s no doubt about that."


    He had made himself clear from the start and had no fear of anyone questioning it.


    "That¡¯s not what I meant. Xiao, listen to me. I¡¯ve never intended topete with anyone for you. I just hope you understand that my feelings for you have never changed. Even if I have certain mental issues, in my memories I have always loved you."


    She spoke with a certain confidence.


    Gu Qixiao sighed, "You¡¯re too obsessive. Things between us shouldn¡¯t havee to this. Besides, the things you¡¯ve done before were all fantasies. There¡¯s a chance that the one you love isn¡¯t even me."


    The memories she mentioned had never happened for him, so he couldn¡¯t understand how she could fall in love with someone through mere imagination. Didn¡¯t such feelings drive her crazy?


    "I won¡¯t say more about what you¡¯ve done. I just hope that you¡¯ll calm down in the future. The coboration between our families isn¡¯t something that can be arbitrarily dissolved."


    Overthinking just drags the family down¡ªso went the lesson Gu Qixiao imparted to her.


    Whether or not she truly heeded his words remained unclear, but the next day she indeed didn¡¯te looking for him.


    When Gu Qixiao went to find Ji Yu, he deliberately brought up this matter. "I don¡¯t believe her ims that you don¡¯t like me."


    His confidence regarding this matter remained intact.


    Ji Yu couldn¡¯t help but chuckle. "You really are something."


    She had always known this wasn¡¯t an easy problem to resolve, but seeing Gu Qixiao like this, it seemed as if none of it mattered anymore.


    "I don¡¯t want you to feel burdened by this." She sighed, deciding not to involve herself in matters concerning Ling Xia anymore.


    The two of them were deep in affection on their side, while Ling Xia, on the other hand, was consumed by fear. "Dad, I don¡¯t know why Gu Qixiao is behaving this way. Do you think I did something wrong?"


    "What nonsense are you saying?" Ling Baiqian cherished his only daughter dearly, so there was no way he¡¯d watch her wallow in misery.


    Thus, he came up with an idea.


    When Gu Qixiao saw him, he showed some surprise. "You¡¯re inviting me to dinner?"


    To be honest, Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t believe it at all and even thought the other party most definitely had ulterior motives.


    "You¡¯re inviting me to dinner now, and you think I¡¯ll believe you have no other agenda?"


    The matter clearly held issues, so Gu Qixiao trusted none of his words.


    Moreover, given their prior extreme behavior, even Zhan Yezhou doubted they¡¯d have any good strategies this time.


    As expected, these things indeed carried ulterior motives.


    Ling Baiqian¡¯s expression grew a bit awkward. "How could I possibly have any vile intentions?"


    Although he did harbor such thoughts, now was certainly not the time to admit it. If he confessed, how could the other party agree toe?


    "Gu, you don¡¯t need to see me as such a bad person. We¡¯ve known each other for so long, and I don¡¯t want our families¡¯ rtionship to turn sour. That¡¯s why I came up with this opportunity to reconcile. Don¡¯t take it too far¡ªyou agree, don¡¯t you?"


    His gaze clearly carried undertones of other intent.


    But Gu Qixiao feigned indifference. "I have other things to attend to this afternoon; let¡¯s discuss dinner another time. Or, you can talk to my dad about it¡ªI¡¯m sure he¡¯d be more than willing to have a proper conversation with you."


    If these matters could have been resolved easily, they wouldn¡¯t have turned out this way.


    Ling Baiqian¡¯s expression grew even more embarrassed, yet he had no way to exin himself.


    He could only watch as the other left with no intention of staying.


    But he still had other approaches. Although Mr. Gu didn¡¯t fully understand these matters, he didn¡¯t want his child to be burdened by them either.


    "Your birthday banquet ising up soon. I¡¯ll bring him along to apologize to you. We were indeed at fault in this matter." He smiled and said.


    This finally prompted Ling Baiqian to nod in agreement. "Alright, then it¡¯s settled. Don¡¯t back out at thest moment."


    The arrangement was temporarily decided, but what Ling Baiqian didn¡¯t expect was that Gu Qixiao would bring Ji Yu along with him. His face darkened immediately upon seeing them.


    "And this youngdy is?"


    "My future wife." Gu Qixiao introduced her without the slightest hesitation, making it clear how serious he was.


    Ling Baiqian wanted to throw them out, but ultimately refrained due to the situation at hand. "So, she¡¯s your fianc¨¦e. Gu, are you hiding things a bit too well?"

 Chapter 240: Drama at the Birthday Party

    <h4>Chapter 240: Chapter 240: Drama at the Birthday Party</h4>


    Ji Yu had long anticipated the other person¡¯s attitude. Besides, who would enjoy hearing such unpleasant words?


    She merely stood aside, yet Gu Qixiao understood her thoughts immediately. He decisively took her hand and moved to a corner, intending to discuss other matterster.


    The people around began specting about Ji Yu¡¯s identity when they saw her.


    Today, Ji Yu was dressed rather loosely, making it hard to tell that she was pregnant. Even though many were curious, no one dared to approach and ask.


    Subconsciously, they assumed it was impossible for Gu Qixiao to have someone he liked.


    But watching how gentle Gu Qixiao was with Ji Yu, they couldn¡¯t suppress their itching curiosity about the nature of their rtionship.


    Ji Yu¡¯s attitude towards this matter was calm andposed, "There¡¯s no need to waste time on this. Though, I¡¯m quite curious about what tactics they¡¯ll use to win you over."


    The people on the other side were indeed anxious and approached Ji Yu immediately after hearing her words.


    Being one of the hosts tonight, Ling Xia was dressed extravagantly, resembling a noble little princess. While she carried herself with pride, the look in her eyes when she faced Ji Yu betrayed her unease.


    "Why are you here too? If I¡¯m not mistaken, our household doesn¡¯t invite just any Tom, Dick, or Harry," she mocked.


    "Oh, really?" Ji Yu didn¡¯t want to attend in the first ce, but Gu Qixiao was adamantly persistent. That¡¯s the only reason she came, only to find the current situation extremely tiresome.


    "Well, since you¡¯ve already made it inside, there¡¯s no need to discuss further. I can¡¯t exactly throw you out." As she spoke, she nced at Gu Qixiao¡¯s expression and, seeing no signs of anger, breathed a small sigh of relief.


    Ji Yu couldn¡¯t help but feel exasperated at Ling Xia¡¯s servile posture. Clearly, whatever she saidst time had fallen on deaf ears. This woman seemed deeply fixated and showed no signs of letting go¡ªher behavior likely wouldn¡¯t change in the future either.


    Gu Qixiao, on the other hand, remained indifferent, treating Ling Xia as if she were invisible. And yet, she still tried to approach him.


    Is this what people mean by being "hopelessly infatuated"?


    "Xiaxia, I heard you and Gu Qixiao are getting engaged. Howe there¡¯s another woman by his side?"


    Someone next to Ling Xia asked, sounding puzzled. They clearly suspected that Ji Yu and Gu Qixiao shared an unusual bond and seemed to want to remind Ling Xia. Unfortunately, they had no idea all of this was purely Ling Xia¡¯s fantasy. There was absolutely no possibility between the two of them.


    When Gu Qixiao heard this, he too was curious about how many people had bought into Ling Xia¡¯s delusions and taken them as truth. Did no one even wonder about what was really going on?


    "There¡¯s nothing between me and Ling Xia. The woman standing before you is my fianc¨¦e," Gu Qixiao said matter-of-factly.


    Originally, Mr. Gu was supposed to attend today¡¯s event as well, but Gu Qixiao worried that such an abrupt encounter would make Ji Yu ufortable, so he outright rejected the suggestion.


    "This..." The young woman seemed bewildered, unable toprehend their rtionship or why the situation had escted so unexpectedly.


    "Regarding what Ling Xia has mentioned before, I hope you all can discern the facts. Whatever she ims about the two of us is simply impossible," he added.


    He refrained from outright saying Ling Xia had mental issues¡ªafter all, her behavior was somewhat pitiful in its own way.


    "Huh?" The people around suddenly exchanged odd nces, clearly uncertain about the true nature of their rtionship. On the one hand, iming they had nothing was hard to believe entirely.


    "Xiao, do you really have to go this far?" Ling Xia desperately wished he would ept her proposal, but matters had already spiraled out of control, leaving no room for defense.


    Seeing how things had escted, Ling Xia found herself at a loss for words, unsure of what to say next.


    She could only fix Gu Qixiao with a pleading look, silently imploring him not to reveal what had happened before.


    "Gu Qixiao, let¡¯s go somewhere else. These matters don¡¯t need to be exined too thoroughly¡ªnot everyone needs to know every detail," Ji Yu said.


    Exining too much would leave Ling Xia humiliated.


    Not exining, however, would make it seem like there was something between them.


    So it was better to step aside and avoid answering these questions for now.


    Since the statement hade out of Ling Xia¡¯s mouth, it was only fitting that she rified it herself.


    Gu Qixiao, naturally, had no objections and maintained his detached stance on the matter.


    "Alright," he replied simply. His heart and mind were entirely filled with only one person.


    Everyone else meant absolutely nothing to him.


    He had barely spent a moment with Ji Yu before someone called out to him.


    "Yu, I¡¯ll go check what¡¯s going on. Wait for me here," he said.


    He was worried about leaving Ji Yu alone in such a setting.


    "I¡¯m not a child. Why would anything happen to me, anyway? Hurry up and go see what¡¯s going on," Ji Yu responded, feeling exasperated at his overly cautious attitude.


    Still, the attention she garnered from apanying Gu Qixiao exined his concern.


    Gu Qixiao hadn¡¯t gone far when someone approached Ji Yu for conversation.


    "What¡¯s your rtionship with Gu Qixiao?" asked a mysterious woman, seemingly fixated on the matter.


    Looking at the stranger, Ji Yu suddenly wondered whether her earlierments had been intentionally provocative.


    "Whatever my rtionship with him is, it¡¯s none of your business. What exactly are you trying to imply with your behavior?" Ji Yu inquired directly.


    Some things needed to be rified.


    This woman had just announced in front of everyone that Gu Qixiao and Ling Xia were getting engaged, humiliating Ling Xia in the process. And now, she had approached Ji Yu herself¡ªclearly, there was something suspicious going on.


    "I was just curious. No need to be so nervous. Don¡¯t worry, I wouldn¡¯t dream ofpeting with you for him," the woman replied with unnerving nonchnce, as if her inquiry was purely casual.


    Unfortunately for her, Ji Yu was far too experienced with situations like this.


    "How about you answer me first: was your announcement about their engagement at the party just now deliberate?" Ji Yu countered coldly.


    The woman seemed caught off guard by the question, her confident smile faltering slightly.


    "Oh, so you¡¯re talking about that? Yes, those words were hers. I only asked out of curiosity when I saw the two of you together. I wasn¡¯t expecting it to create such an awkward situation," she exined, maintaining her calm demeanor and deflecting responsibility.


    "Oh?" Ji Yu clearly didn¡¯t buy her answer. The ambition in the woman¡¯s eyes was overwhelmingly apparent.


    "Next time you makements like that, I suggest you rein in your greed," Ji Yu warned, her tone sharp and unwavering.

 Chapter 241 Ambition

    <h4>Chapter 241: Chapter 241 Ambition</h4>


    "Since you¡¯ve noticed it, I¡¯ll just make it clear¡ªI have feelings for Gu Qixiao. I hope you can step aside as soon as possible."


    She exuded an air of great confidence, looking as though she was well-prepared for this conversation.


    "So you¡¯re here just to tell me this? Don¡¯t you already know what kind of rtionship the two of us have? Why bother asking further?" Ji Yu had long be numb to situations like this. The nature of their rtionship was already so obvious¡ªcouldn¡¯t they see it?


    "Yu?"


    Mr. Gu had only intended to sneak over to take a look at the person his son liked, curious about what kind of girl she might be. To his surprise, he unexpectedly ran into Ji Yu.


    Ji Yu looked at him with some surprise as well.


    "Uncle Gu, didn¡¯t you say you had something preventing you froming today? Why show up all of a sudden?" She was initially puzzled, as Gu Qixiao had gone out of his way to exin earlier.


    "It¡¯s nothing. That son of mine didn¡¯t want me meeting the girl he likes. I figured today was a rare opportunity and thought to myself that I had toe see what¡¯s going on, no matter what." He felt deeply apologetic toward Ji Yu.


    After all, he had gone through so much effort to bring the two of them together back then, yet he hadn¡¯t even gotten the chance to meet her. This always weighed on his mind.


    "I never expected to bump into you here like this." Mr. Gu still hoped she could be his daughter-inw, but since things hade to this, there was no need to force it further.


    Ji Yu felt incredibly awkward inside but still managed to keep a smile on her face.


    How could she exin it? That girl¡ªwas her.


    She couldn¡¯t possibly tell him the details of the situation between her and his son.


    Anyone would feel incredibly ufortable in such a scenario.


    "Yu, don¡¯t stress about it. If you still like him, I can talk to him for you. Let him see how amazing you are¡ªit¡¯ll drive him crazy with regret."


    "That won¡¯t be necessary. There¡¯s nothing between us anymore. And since we never met each other back then, there¡¯s no need for it now either." Thinking about the past made Ji Yu want to curl her toes in embarrassment.


    How could something so mortifying happen?


    Mu Yurou, observing the situation unfolding before her, began to doubt whether Ji Yu had always been familiar with the Gu family.


    Otherwise, how could she appear so close with the head of the Gu family?


    "Yu, Uncle Gu will always see you as a daughter. If you ever need anything,e to me."


    Ji Yu knew very well that he was a kind-hearted person. Back when she was starting her own business, it was his financial support that got her on her feet, and she was deeply grateful to him.


    "Uncle Gu, there¡¯s really no need for you to be so insistent. All of that was a long time ago, and I¡¯ve already forgotten about it."


    But there were some things she didn¡¯t quite know how to say.


    After everything, she and Gu Qixiao had ended up back together again. Perhaps they had met the right person at the wrong time back then, but this time, fate had brought them back together.


    Exining it all clearly to their families, however, had be particrly difficult, especially after her divorce. The Ji family had been staunchly opposed to it at the time.


    "Alright then, I¡¯d better go find that troublemaker and see where he ran off to." Mr. Gu had been here for a while yet hadn¡¯t seen his son.


    But Gu Qixiao had, in fact, been called up to a room on the second floor.


    Faced with the current situation, he felt utterly exasperated. "You don¡¯t seriously think locking the two of us in the same room is going to make something happen, do you?"


    Really, who would think that such a setup could achieve anything?


    The more he considered it, the more impossible it seemed.


    "Xiao, I just wanted to have a proper talk with you. I¡¯m very happy my father was able to invite you here today." Ling Xia gave him a slight smile¡ªit seemed her mental state had improved quite a bit.


    "As long as you¡¯re happy. If there¡¯s nothing else, can I leave now?" He didn¡¯t want to keep getting tangled up with her. Their rtionship had already been made crystal clear.


    "I get it, Xiao. You don¡¯t like me and don¡¯t want to be with me. But I need to ask for your help with something." Without hesitation, she started taking off her clothes.


    Beneath them, she was only wearing a silk nightgown.


    The expression on her face was one of desperation, as if she had no other options left.


    "Xiao, I really like you." She wanted to experience that exhrating joy with him, hoping that maybe, just maybe, it could win back his heart.


    Looking at the scene before him, Gu Qixiao felt a headacheing on. He couldn¡¯t fathom where she had learned such tactics, but it was clear such moves wouldn¡¯t work on him.


    "Ling Xia, look at what you¡¯re doing right now. How can you disrespect yourself like this? Can you really live with it? What if, in the future, you meet someone you truly like? You¡¯ll regret this."


    She could have walked away from this unscathed, without any harm, but she had chosen the most disastrous path instead.


    "Put your clothes back on, and let¡¯s have a proper conversation. I know you¡¯re probably feeling emotional right now, but don¡¯t make rash decisions about something like this."


    Once certain things were done, there was no going back.


    Ling Xia looked at Gu Qixiao, her gaze resolute. "Xiao, you don¡¯t like me because you haven¡¯t tried being with others. I refuse to believe you don¡¯t feel anything for me."


    She was brimming with confidence in her looks and figure, hoping he would finally see her intentions.


    Gu Qixiao massaged his temples. "Don¡¯t you think what you¡¯re doing now is testing the limits of my morality? If I really did something with you, would I still be Gu Qixiao?"


    He firmly believed his heart only belonged to one person, and at this point, there was no need to continue this pointless discussion.


    "Xiao, are you in there?" Mr. Gu, tipped off by a server, had tracked down the room.


    Hearing no response, he quickly knocked on the door, asking if Gu Qixiao was inside.


    Recognizing his father¡¯s voice and ncing at the scene before him, Gu Qixiao¡¯s headache worsened. If Mr. Gu saw all this, it would certainly lead to misunderstandings.


    "Dad, just hold on a second, or maybe unlock the door from the outside."


    He had already tried opening it himself, only to find it locked. He couldn¡¯t get out.


    Were it not for the locked door, he would have left long ago.


    After all, the situation unfolding before him was far too sudden. He wasn¡¯t ready for it and had no intention of engaging in anything with Ling Xia.


    Mr. Gu¡¯s expression darkened as he realized something must have happened inside¡ªotherwise, his son wouldn¡¯t say such things.


    "Wait here, I¡¯ll find out what¡¯s going on." He wouldn¡¯t let his son suffer quietly in that room.


    Gu Qixiao, utterly exasperated, simply wanted to push the woman before him as far away as possible.


    "Ling Xia, we¡¯re just not right for each other. You should try liking someone else."

 Chapter 242 Inappropriate

    <h4>Chapter 242: Chapter 242 Inappropriate</h4>


    "You haven¡¯t even tried yet, so how do you know it¡¯s not suitable?" Ling Xia had thought of countless ways¡ªthis was her only chance.


    She didn¡¯t know what more she could do to be with him.


    "Xiao, I¡¯ve already used every possible method to find you, but you still reject me like this. Is it because of Ji Yu?" She gazed at Gu Qixiao with questioning eyes. She couldn¡¯t understand what was so special about Ji Yu that made him care so much.


    "I always thought you and I were the perfect match, but you¡¯re telling me you like someone else, that you¡¯re ready to give up on me. Do you know how much it hurts me right now?"


    Every time she persisted, it seemed to him like a kind of torment.


    Gu Qixiao couldn¡¯tprehend why she insisted on behaving this way.


    "There¡¯s nothing between us. I¡¯ve told you this many times, but you insist on acting like this. What am I supposed to do?" He had said it countless times, but she refused to listen. Was this really their issue?


    "The things you¡¯ve done¡ªyou don¡¯t reflect on them; instead, you try to find fault with us. What right do you have to make me love you? I¡¯ve said it before¡ªI have someone I love."


    From beginning to end, his stance had remained firm. He hadn¡¯t shown her even the slightest ambiguous behavior, yet she took everything as if it were to be expected. That was in wrong.


    "Ask yourself honestly¡ªhave I ever shown you any signs of affection? If I have, I¡¯ll change."


    They had spoken to each other only on rare asions.


    Yet she insisted on pinning such usations on him. What else could he do?


    Ling Xia was left speechless.


    At this moment, Mr. Gu, with a darkened expression, ordered the door to be opened. When he saw the scene before him, he instantly understood what had happened.


    "Ling Baiqian, shouldn¡¯t you give me an exnation? Why is my son trapped here, and why is your daughter dressed so inappropriately?"


    Initially, he had no grudge against their family. But if they resorted to such methods against the Gu family, then he wouldn¡¯t tolerate it.


    Ling Baiqian immediately understood the situation when he saw this, but as his daughter, she had to be indulged.


    "Now, that¡¯s where you¡¯re wrong. Clearly, my daughter is the one at a disadvantage here. How can you use her of having ulterior motives?"


    "So Uncle Ling does acknowledge this as having ulterior motives, huh."


    Gu Qixiao said coldly, his face icy.


    At first, he had intended to ignore baseless rumors, considering the rtionship between the two families. But since they insisted on using such a tactic to coerce him, he had no choice but to set things straight, ensuring they harbored no further illusions.


    "I don¡¯t know why you think this way, but I¡¯ve said it many times: I have someone I care about. I hope you can respect my feelings and stop using such tricks to approach me."


    If they had even a shred of dignity, they wouldn¡¯t continue down this path.


    "I¡¯ve said it so many times, and yet you stubbornly persist. Now, our families¡¯ coboration will have to end. My father is right here, and I¡¯m sure he understands exactly what I mean."


    Mr. Gu did indeed grasp the gravity of the situation.


    Besides, since his son already had someone he liked, continuing this would only breed misunderstandings.


    "It¡¯s time we reconsidered the cooperation between our families. If you¡¯re always scheming to tie your daughter to my son, then it¡¯s better we forego any further coboration."


    Coboration would necessitate continued interaction.


    And such meetings would inevitably lead the other party to indulge in unwee fantasies¡ªa situation nobody wanted to deal with.


    Their expressions turned visibly grim.


    It was clear that terminating the cooperation would be a major blow to their family. They had fought hard to maintain this coboration up until now, hoping to solidify it through marriage between the two families.


    "Apologize." In the end, Ling Baiqian told his daughter to apologize.


    Ling Xia looked utterly incredulous. She couldn¡¯t believe her father was the first to utter these words.


    "Dad, what did I do wrong? Didn¡¯t you also agree to let me do this?"


    With that one sentence, the oue of the matter was essentially sealed.


    Gu Qixiao had no interest in continuing the conversation with them.


    His thoughts were on Ji Yu.


    At this moment, Ji Yu had already left, mainly to avoid running into Mr. Gu, which would have been awkward.


    When she received Gu Qixiao¡¯s call, she thought everything had already been resolved.


    "Yu, where are you? I just ran into some trouble and couldn¡¯t make it down to be with you."


    "I¡¯m sitting by the flower bed outside." She wasn¡¯t in the mood to socialize with those people, and she hadn¡¯t had much of an appetitetely.


    Sitting here alone was a rare moment of rest.


    The tension inside earlier had been palpable, though she had no idea what had transpired. She guessed it was rted to Gu Qixiao.


    When Gu Qixiao came out, he saw her sitting by the flower bed.


    "Yu, something happened just now that might cause you some misunderstanding, but there¡¯s really nothing between me and that person."


    He spoke with grave seriousness, his tone demonstrating clear disdain for the situation.


    "I figured something must have happened to dy you, but I still want to know what exactly went on." As his girlfriend, she felt she had the right to know.


    Gu Qixiao sighed, rubbing his temples in frustration. "I didn¡¯t expect them to lock us in the same room, and they even had Ling Xia dress like that. If my dad hadn¡¯t arrived in time, who knows what might¡¯ve happened."


    Ji Yu thought back to the earliermotion¡ªit turned out this was the reason.


    "It seems our President Gu is quite sought after." Otherwise, why else would such a situation arise?


    "Sought after? Hardly. My heart has always been set on you, and you should know that better than anyone." Deep inside, he was steadfast¡ªit had always only been her. Everything that had happened recently only reinforced his conviction.


    In matters of the heart, he was exceedingly cautious, fearful of any mishap.


    "Haven¡¯t I made my feelings for you obvious enough? Why are you always so cautious? You don¡¯t need to be this careful." Ji Yu had always trusted in their love and felt his level of guardedness was excessive.


    Love, after all, required both people to nurture it for it to thrive.

 Chapter 243 Emotional Issues

    <h4>Chapter 243: Chapter 243 Emotional Issues</h4>


    "Yu, I¡¯ve always believed that our rtionship couldst until the end, but because of some incredibly foolish things I did in the past, now it¡¯s on me to make amends."


    He hadn¡¯t forgotten how suspicious he had been when they first met.


    Moreover, during that time, he truly had made no shortage of mistakes because of Song Xuan.


    Thankfully, things were much better now.


    "Yu, honestly, I¡¯m really happy that you were willing to let go of past grievances and be with me. You probably still remember what happened back then, right? Even I couldn¡¯t stand the things I did at that time."


    Looking back now, he really was a bastard.


    "I know you were very anxious back then, and maybe helping Song Xuan with her face was your way of repaying her onest time."


    Although Song Xuan hadn¡¯t appeared recently, there was plenty of news about her.


    "Lately, I¡¯m not sure what¡¯s gotten into her, but she¡¯s been pretty active online."


    Gu Qixiao had no idea what Song Xuan was trying to do.


    But since there was no significant connection between them, he didn¡¯t bother to look into it either.


    "If she dares to do anything to harm you, of course, I¡¯ll stop her. But she¡¯s been fairly well-behavedtely, without doing anything out of line."


    "I see," Ji Yu replied, without implying any intent to hold anything against her. Whether or not the favor had been repaid, connections like this could never truly disappear.


    So, it was indeed time to properly resolve the matter between the two of them.


    "I know what you¡¯re worried about, and I promise I won¡¯t have any contact with her. I understand that if there¡¯s any lingering entanglement between us, it would definitely upset you."


    Ji Yu sighed, "It¡¯s not to that extent. I¡¯ve always believed that what¡¯s mine will always be mine, and what¡¯s not mine will never be obtainable. So, there¡¯s really no need for us to nitpick over these things."


    Some matters linger in the heart of the other person, even if you don¡¯t dwell on them yourself.


    So, no matter what happened thereafter, she hadn¡¯t focused on such things.


    "I¡¯m feeling a bit tired. Why don¡¯t we head back?" Mostly, she was worried that lingering here might lead to running into Mr. Gu, which would result in misunderstandings they couldn¡¯t easily exin away.


    "Actually, my original n for today was to introduce you to my father. But on second thought, I figured you probably weren¡¯t ready to meet him in this capacity just yet."


    What was between them needed careful consideration, and he could sense that Ji Yu wasn¡¯t too eager to meet his family at the moment.


    Since that was the case, there was no need to force her into epting this situation.


    "Actually, meeting him wouldn¡¯t be an issue," Ji Yu said, suddenly feeling a pang of heartache seeing him like this. After everything he¡¯d done for her, what harm could there be in meeting his father?


    But things didn¡¯t go quite as they¡¯d imagined. By the time they got back, the banquet had already ended, and Mr. Gu had simply gone home.


    Gu Qixiao looked a bit disappointed. "Looks like we¡¯ll have to wait until next time."


    Still, he wasn¡¯t too bothered. After all, she was already his. How would she even have the chance to run away?


    He initially nned to take Ji Yu home, but a sudden phone call demanded his immediate return to the office to handle some urgent matters.


    "It¡¯s fine. I can go back by myself," Ji Yu said. "Work is more important. If they¡¯re calling you thiste, it must be something urgent. I can¡¯t take up your time."


    Ji Yu wasn¡¯t a child and didn¡¯t need to be chauffeured everywhere all the time.


    But Gu Qixiao, recalling what had happenedst time, felt uneasy. So, no matter what she said, he insisted the driver take her home first before anything else.


    Ji Yu could sense what was on his mind at this moment. "I don¡¯t n to go home yet. I was thinking of heading to the hospital to check on things. After all, my mom still hasn¡¯t woken up, and I don¡¯t feel at ease."


    Since thest car ident, Madam Ji had been in aa, and everyone knew the chances of her waking up were slim.


    Over this period, Ji Yu had been visiting former ssmates, hoping to find ways to try alternative treatments.


    Gu Qixiao knew about this but didn¡¯t know how to offer her any realfort.


    "Yu, no matter what happens, I¡¯ll always be here for you."


    "I know." Ji Yu hadn¡¯t broken down emotionally over these past few months,rgely thanks to him.


    Every time she thought about the situation, it filled her with despair. But fortunately, she had someone by her side to console her.


    "Yu, honestly, your mother wouldn¡¯t want to see you so upset. None of this is your fault, and you¡¯ve already made the person responsible pay, haven¡¯t you?"


    Li Yu had never been a good person. Even without this incident, he likely would¡¯ve caused trouble eventually.


    On that note, Ji Yu had intentionally arranged for him to stay in the room next to Madam Ji¡¯s.


    She wanted to make him see just how futile all his actions had been.


    "Go handle your work," she said. "I¡¯ll manage things here, and I feel a lot better already. Thank you for staying with me today."


    She understood how busy he usually was, yet he¡¯d been by her side all this time.


    Only after watching Ji Yu enter the ward did he leave for thepany.


    Mr. Ji wasn¡¯t surprised to see her arrive. "Yu, there¡¯s no need toe every day. You¡¯re still carrying a child. Don¡¯t get too emotional. Your mom¡¯s condition has already been improving."


    Though his words were reassuring, the exhaustion on his face was far more convincing.


    Ji Yu felt an ache in her heart. How could she just stay home and turn a blind eye when the two people who treated her so kindly had ended up like this?


    "I just came to check in. How could I feel at ease if I don¡¯t? Dad, you should also rest well. Look at yourplexion; it¡¯s obvious you haven¡¯t been sleeping."


    Staying by the bedside day and night was a truly exhausting ordeal.


    "How could I sleep well? Seeing your mom like this is really tormenting for me." He was willing to spend the rest of his life taking care of her. They¡¯d spent half their lives together¡ªhow could he think of giving up now?


    "Dad, you need to take care of yourself too. If you fall ill, how will my brother and I not feel guilty? We can hire a caregiver to watch over her. You should get some proper rest."


    She felt a sting in her heart every time she saw him so worn out.


    "I¡¯m fine."

 Chapter 244: Heartache

    <h4>Chapter 244: Chapter 244: Heartache</h4>


    "Dad, even if you¡¯re not thinking about us siblings, you should at least think about Mom. If she knew how much you were struggling for her, she¡¯d definitely feel heartbroken."


    Upon hearing this, Mr. Ji¡¯s eyes reddened slightly, deeply moved by the words.


    "It just hurts so much inside. I can¡¯t understand why your mom ended up like this. All we ever wanted was to live a simple and peaceful life."


    But this incident shattered their illusionpletely.


    He wasn¡¯t sure if he¡¯d be able to hold on much longer.


    "Every day, I think that if your mom never wakes up, then I¡¯ll just stay here with her. That way, the two of us can at least spend the rest of our lives together."


    Ji Yu felt heartbroken when she heard this.


    "Dad, no matter what, I hope you¡¯ll make sure to rest well." She sat nearby, observing Madam Ji¡¯s condition. How she wished her mother could be here, just like before, telling her not to cry anymore.


    But such longings felt like nothing more than a dream.


    "Yu, you¡¯re still pregnant. Considering your situation, you need rest more than anyone else. You can¡¯t keeping here every day. If you get too emotional, something could go wrong."


    The Ji family was deeply bonded, and yet, why did such an ordeal have to befall them? Perhaps some people envied their happiness.


    Ji Yu stayed a while longer to keep her fatherpany before finally preparing to leave.


    On her way home, she received a call from the senior she¡¯d previously consulted.


    "Yu, what you mentioned before, I¡¯ve encountered simr cases. Unfortunately, I can¡¯t fly back immediately. Let¡¯s talk about it after I return to the country."


    Hearing that her mother¡¯s situation might hold a glimmer of hope, Ji Yu felt she couldn¡¯t just let it go.


    "Really? That¡¯s so kind of you, Senior Xia. But, do you know when you¡¯ll be able toe back? I can pick you up when you arrive."


    The other party chuckled, seemingly aware of her anxiety, and offered a nearby date.


    "I n to fly back the day after tomorrow, but if it¡¯s urgent, I can fly back tomorrow night. You don¡¯t need to pick me up. Just wait for me toe to you."


    He was genuinely interested in her situation and didn¡¯t want to miss the opportunity to help.


    Despite his reassurance, Ji Yu still went to pick him up.


    Seeing the familiar figure before her eased some of the tension in her heart.


    "I¡¯m so sorry, Senior Xia, for making you take such a detour."


    "Not at all. Your mother¡¯s ident is something I naturally want to help with. Besides, if what I¡¯ve learned can be of use to you, I¡¯d be truly happy."


    His gaze toward Ji Yu was warm and gentle.


    When Ji Yu thought about what he had said previously, she couldn¡¯t help but feel emotional.


    "ording to the doctors, my mom¡¯s condition isn¡¯t terrible. But for some reason¡ªperhaps due to a blood clot pressing down¡ªshe just hasn¡¯t woken up."


    "I¡¯ll need to assess her condition before we can be sure," Xia Chuanhe said calmly without rushing or making any definitive promises. After all, cases like this were rarely guaranteed.


    Ji Yu understood that they needed to first determine the specifics before they could make an urate decision.


    "Since you¡¯ll need some time to observe, why not stay in the country a bit longer?"


    "Don¡¯t worry, Yu. As long as it¡¯s about you, I¡¯ll be here," he said sincerely.


    This matter was incredibly important to Ji Yu.


    He was well aware of this fact.


    Moreover, this presented an opportunity to strengthen their connection.


    Ji Yu was deeply grateful to him. After agreeing to meet at the hospital the following day to assess the situation, she finally returned home.


    When Ji Yuanzhou learned of the matter, he was somewhat surprised.


    "You have a senior who specializes in this field?"


    "Of course, it¡¯s not just limited to this discipline. But whether he can help remains uncertain." Ji Yu was fairly confident about this development.


    However, it was always wise to prepare for the worst-case scenario. High hopes often led to deeper disappointment, particrly in situations like this.


    Thus, she contemted every potentialplication. If Senior Xia could indeed improve her mother¡¯s condition, they would naturally be deeply grateful.


    Hearing this, Ji Yuanzhou grew anxious as well.


    He could only wait until the next day for more rity.


    Unwilling to let Ji Yu go alone, the two siblings decided to bring Xia Chuanhe to the hospital together.


    Xia Chuanhe seemed curious about Ji Yuanzhou¡¯s presence. "Yu, who is this?"


    "This is my brother."


    Ji Yu rarely talked about her family while at school. This unexpected scenario had now introduced him to her family.


    A cheerful smile spread across his face. "Ah, so this is Yu¡¯s older brother. Rest assured, I¡¯ll do everything I can. Even if I can¡¯t, my mentor surely can."


    Seeing this expression, and as a fellow man, Ji Yuanzhou could easily guess what he was thinking.


    "Thank you."


    For now, they had no choice but to keep things amicable, especially since they needed his help. Avoidingplications was key.


    The group arrived at the hospital to find Mr. Ji still sitting vigil by Madam Ji¡¯s side, looking utterly exhausted. Ji Yu felt a pang of guilt as she watched him.


    "Dad, we brought someone to assess Mom¡¯s condition. Why don¡¯t you rest for a while? We¡¯ll call you as soon as there¡¯s an update."


    Over the past few weeks, they had sought help from numerous people, but none of the results had been promising. Mr. Ji was nearing despair. So upon hearing this, his first instinct was to stay and apany them.


    "Let me stay too. I want to see if she has any chance of waking up."


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t know how to respond and dared not agitate her father. She feared that excessive emotion might lead to something worse.


    Although Xia Chuanhe appeared young, he had some expertise in this area.


    After examining Madam Ji, his expression grew solemn. "Your mom¡¯s condition is indeed severe. From what I see, she¡¯ll likely need a craniotomy. But as you know, the sess rate for such a procedure is only fifty percent. Whether or not to proceed will be up to you."


    Heid things out clearly. A craniotomy might not necessarily improve her condition, but not proceeding with it left an 80% probability that she wouldn¡¯t wake up.


    "Isn¡¯t there any other option?" Ji Yu knew that all surgeries carried risks, especially a procedure as invasive as a craniotomy.


    "I can try to bring my mentor over to assess the situation, but his schedule is very tight. We¡¯ll have to see if he¡¯s avable."

 Chapter 245 Decision

    <h4>Chapter 245: Chapter 245 Decision</h4>


    Ji Yu frowned but knew that this sort of matter couldn¡¯t be forced.


    "Well, then I¡¯ll trouble you, senior." She could only hope Madam Ji¡¯s condition wouldn¡¯t be too bad. If surgery really became necessary, it would indeed take a toll on her body.


    Fortunately, things went rtively smoothly. The other party happened to have a surgery scheduled in Z Country during this period, so when Xia Chuanhe extended the invitation, they agreed readily.


    Ji Yu was naturally full of gratitude toward him. "Senior, I don¡¯t even know how to thank you enough. Without you, I don¡¯t know how long it would¡¯ve taken me to gather everything."


    Her gratitude toward him was pure and simple.


    But his gaze toward Ji Yu was anything but simple. "Yu, are you still working on restorative surgeriestely?"


    "Yeah, SinceXin was founded by me, of course I have to keep persisting. Plus, I hope to see more smiles on people¡¯s faces in the future."


    Her dedication to this was especially pronounced.


    Her unwaveringmitment made Xia Chuanhe chuckle. "You really haven¡¯t changed a bit; you¡¯re exactly the same as before."


    It seemed like everyone else had undergone some sort of transformation over time, but Ji Yu remained as she always had been.


    "What¡¯s there to change? I¡¯m simply sticking to what I want to do. I¡¯m just more clear about my goals than others, that¡¯s all."


    She understood this feeling deeply.


    Even if issues arose, she would never regret it.


    This was precisely what Xia Chuanhe had initially admired about Ji Yu. Seeing her like this now made him reflect on that admiration.


    "Yu, after all these years, there¡¯s actually something I¡¯ve always wanted to say to you."


    "Yu, go talk to Dad and get him to rest." Ji Yuanzhou showed up at that moment, intentionally or unintentionally interrupting the conversation and calling Ji Yu away.


    Xia Chuanhe¡¯s gaze toward Ji Yuanzhou immediately took on a subtle meaning.


    But Ji Yuanzhou clearly wasn¡¯t fazed by such a look; he just wanted to resolve this matter smoothly.


    Still, the man before him was undeniably a headache. Even dealing with him would require quite a bit of effort.


    "I don¡¯t have much to say about Yu¡¯s situation. She has someone she likes, so I hope you won¡¯t make her feel awkward." Ji Yuanzhou understood Xia Chuanhe¡¯s thoughts; if it was never possible from the start, why keep dwelling on it?


    He likely wasn¡¯t surprised by this, so he epted it quite calmly. "Yu is the kind of person who has someone she likes and is also liked by others; that¡¯s only to be expected. But that doesn¡¯t affect the fact that I like her."


    These two things werepletely independent. "Not to mention, the two of them aren¡¯t even married yet. And even if they were, there¡¯s always the possibility of divorce. So my pursuit isn¡¯t a problem at all."


    Ji Yuanzhou couldn¡¯t help but admire his thick skin¡ªotherwise, how could he even say such things out loud?


    "You really are someone who leaves people speechless." He¡¯d already lost count of how many such situations he¡¯d encountered.


    "I¡¯m merely expressing my feelings appropriately. No matter the oue, since I promised to help with this matter, I have no intention of giving up."


    He said with a smile.


    But Ji Yu¡¯s attitude toward this matter was undeniably surprising.


    Ji Yu noticed that Mr. Ji¡¯s condition truly wasn¡¯t good, so she wanted to persuade him to get some rest. "Dad, you know that we now have a chance to wait for Mom to wake up. If you keep pushing yourself like this, your body won¡¯t hold out."


    She patiently tried to convince Mr. Ji, and he understood that Ji Yu was right.


    But he simply refused to leave. "Yu, I¡¯m not afraid of youughing at me, buttely, whenever I close my eyes at night, I keep thinking about your mom and me, and then her current situation. It¡¯s impossible for me to fall asleep."


    He wanted to escape this state and get some proper rest, but it was too difficult. No one could remain indifferent toward this matter.


    When Ji Yu heard those words, she naturally understood where he wasing from. But under these circumstances, his health was the most important thing.


    "Dad, you know Mom¡¯s temperament. If she wakes up to see you like this, how could she possibly be at ease?"


    Sure enough, mentioning Madam Ji was the most effective approach.


    Mr. Ji sighed and finally agreed. "Yu, you¡¯re right. I should really get some rest now. When your mom wakes up, I¡¯ll be better able to apany her and take her out to y."


    As he spoke, he settled himself onto the care bed next to them, not wanting to leave even a step away.


    It wasn¡¯t until Ji Yu saw him close his eyes that she took her leave.


    As she walked out, a sudden longing for Gu Qixiao came to her. If the two of them ever found themselves in a situation like this, would Gu Qixiao feel the same kind of deep affection for her?


    "Yu, why are you standing there daydreaming?" Xia Chuanhe noticed her dazed expression and thought she was worrying about Madam Ji¡¯s condition. "Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll definitely help you handle Auntie¡¯s situation."


    Ji Yu forced a faint smile. "I understand. Thank you, senior." She tried her best to appearposed, but he still saw through her facade.


    "Yu, if there¡¯s anything troubling you, you can talk to me. I can help you with any of these things. Please don¡¯t suppress it within yourself, it¡¯ll only make you feel worse."


    But Ji Yu¡¯s thoughts were far beyond his ability to help.


    Right now, the person she most wanted to see was Gu Qixiao.


    "Senior, really, it¡¯s nothing. I still have other matters to attend to, so I¡¯ll head off now. If you need anything, just call me."


    At this moment, she truly wanted to see Gu Qixiao.


    Xia Chuanhe didn¡¯t rush; he still had plenty of time.


    But clearly, things weren¡¯t as smooth as he¡¯d hoped.


    After leaving the hospital, Ji Yu went directly to Gu Qixiao¡¯spany.


    When Gu Qixiao saw her, his eyes lit up with joy. "Yu, why did you make time toe see me today?"


    "It¡¯s nothing. I just suddenly wanted to see you. Recently, I¡¯ve been busy with my mother¡¯s situation and haven¡¯t had much time for you, so I made a special effort toe today."


    Recently, Gu Qixiao had also been busy, so the two of them had been slightly out of sync. But there was no need to rush; they still had time to be together in the days ahead.


    Gu Qixiao rarely saw this clingy side of Ji Yu. Seeing her like this, his heart softened involuntarily. "Yu, you always act so reserved, but when you¡¯re being sweet like this, it¡¯s really hard to resist."


    Ji Yu couldn¡¯t help butugh. "This isn¡¯t me being sweet¡ªI genuinely missed you."


    She just wanted to see what he was up to.


    At this moment, Gu Qixiao finally understood how much Ji Yu truly cared for him.

 Chapter 246: The Senior’s Arrangement

    <h4>Chapter 246: Chapter 246: The Senior¡¯s Arrangement</h4>


    Ji Yu had been extremely busy recently.


    Thinking about how meeting each other today wasn¡¯t easy, they naturally needed to make the most of their time together.


    "The situationst time has been mostly resolved, right?" There shouldn¡¯t be a need to worry about the Ling family¡¯s matters anymore.


    Hearing this, Gu Qixiao felt a headacheing on.


    "I really don¡¯t understand what¡¯s going on with their family. They¡¯re always imagining everything to be as perfect as they envision it."


    The problem is, what they¡¯ve been doing is utterly terrible.


    "I don¡¯t even know what they¡¯re fantasizing about anymore. They keep trying to force some kind of rtionship between me and their daughter." The crux of the matter is that it¡¯s impossible between the two of them, yet now they¡¯re pushing things to this extent. Who knows what they¡¯re thinking.


    "Maybe, in their mind, only this would make your partnership with them more stable. After all, your coboration is already on the brink of being canceled," Ji Yu said, trying to understand the other party¡¯s perspective.


    But handling this matter in such a way could result in significant risks.


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t feel there was too much wrong with it either¡ªit was normal for them to harbor such thoughts at the moment.


    "What they¡¯re hoping for isn¡¯t even particrly grand. It¡¯s just that your partnership with them is on the edge of copse, and they¡¯re grasping for any chance to salvage it. They probably think this is the only way to solidify your rtionship with them."


    In their eyes, perhaps every major family is built on arranged marriages, but unfortunately, Gu Qixiao isn¡¯t that kind of person at all.


    "I have zero interest in their family, and their quality has been dropping, too. It makes me seriously question whether they¡¯re doing this intentionally," he said.


    Maybe this is a reason as well. Since they¡¯ve failed to ensure quality, they¡¯re attempting topensate through other means.


    But unexpectedly, this time something seems off.


    Thinking about the situation made Gu Qixiao sigh helplessly.


    "If they keep this up, I doubt the partnership has any chance of sess." They had worked together for a long time, but now their performance kept going downhill. He couldn¡¯t figure out what was going on.


    "If they can¡¯t improve their quality, we¡¯ll just have to rece them. It¡¯s not our fault. From the very beginning, they¡¯ve had ulterior motives, and it¡¯s something I find extremely repulsive."


    When dealing with these things, Gu Qixiao operated on one principle¡ªthey shouldn¡¯t try such low tactics, as it would only worsen their rtionship.


    "Let¡¯s not talk about them anymore. Just thinking about them makes me angry. How¡¯s your aunt doing?"


    He knew Ji Yu had recently found a highly skilled neurologist, but he wasn¡¯t sure if Madam Ji¡¯s condition could be treated sessfully.


    "My mother¡¯s condition has improved a lot. However, the doctor mentioned she may need surgery, but there are significant risks involved. He¡¯s decided to consult his mentor first for advice."


    Reaching such progress was already no small feat, but they still hoped to find a perfect solution, one that carried minimal risk, if any.


    "If your aunt¡¯s condition improves, there¡¯s a good chance she¡¯ll wake up. I just hope we can find a suitable method so she doesn¡¯t have to suffer so much."


    Brain surgery involves considerable risks, not to mention numerous potentialplications.


    "Yu, don¡¯t worry. I¡¯ve also reached out to several neurologists, and I hope their expertise can help your mother."


    What happened caught them all off guard, leading to the current situation, but they would never let things drag on like this. At the very least, they had to ensure Madam Ji woke up.


    Ji Yu also wished things wouldn¡¯t turn out so disastrous. However, every bad thing seemed to havee at once, piling on her, making it hard to bear.


    "I don¡¯t know what¡¯s been going ontely. It¡¯s one thing after another, and there¡¯s always someone causing trouble. We didn¡¯t even do anything."


    The most innocent person in all this was the one who had suffered the most¡ªMadam Ji. She had done nothing wrong and didn¡¯t even know the person involved, yet she had been harmed so cruelly.


    "I keep wondering, if my mom knew about this, would she me me?" From the very beginning, she had been terrified of this possibility, worried about what mighte next.


    If her own mother were to say such things to her, she mightpletely fall apart.


    "Yu, you need to trust in the love your mother has for you. Even if she knew about this, she wouldn¡¯t me you at all. In her eyes, this has nothing to do with you¡ªit¡¯s the other party¡¯s decision."


    No one had any inkling of what Li Yu was nning when he did this. It was impossible for anyone to foresee this situation.


    They rushed to the scene immediately after it happened, but they couldn¡¯t stop the tragedy from unfolding.


    They were racking their brains, trying to figure out what could be done.


    But for now, there was so little they could do¡ªthey could only try to make up for it in other ways.


    They could only hope the doctors they found this time would be helpful.


    "Gu Qixiao, why is it that the world seems to have so many unpleasant things? Wouldn¡¯t it be great if everything could go smoothly?"


    Ji Yu was about to say more when someone called out to her.


    "Miss Ji, someone outside is asking for you."


    Ji Yu was momentarily stunned. She hadn¡¯t expected anyone toe looking for her at this time. If she remembered correctly, she hadn¡¯t scheduled any meetings recently.


    When she finally met the person, she realized who it was.


    "Oh, it¡¯s you. I was wondering why I hadn¡¯t run into any familiar faces recently. What brings you here? I¡¯ve already told you¡ªI wouldn¡¯t perform another surgery for your face."


    She had always stuck to her principles. Once she made a decision, she wouldn¡¯t waver, no matter the circumstances.


    The person¡¯s face had deteriorated due to improper use of medication. She couldn¡¯t understand what he was thinking when he chose to abandon the treatment she had initially prescribed.


    "Miss Ji, I beg you, please help me. With this face, I can¡¯t go anywhere or even make a living. You must understand that you¡¯re the only one who can fix it. I really need your help," he pleaded, looking utterly defeated and pitiful in front of Ji Yu.


    But if she remembered correctly, he had initially nned to use this face to deceive others.

 Chapter 247: The Deceiver

    <h4>Chapter 247: Chapter 247: The Deceiver</h4>


    "Don¡¯t you think what you said is extremely ironic? You know exactly what you all said back then. Now youe to me wanting to fix your face¡ªdo you think I¡¯m someone without principles?"


    The events of the past had already transpired, making the situation now utterly exasperating.


    "Even if the surgery was done at my hospital, as long as you don¡¯t follow my instructions to apply the medication, what happens to your faceter has nothing to do with me."


    It was his ownck of perseverance that caused the mess, and now he was trying to pin the me on her¡ªwas that notughable?


    "Miss Ji, I know you dislike my face, and I know the troubles back then left a bitter taste. But my face is innocent. I¡¯ve been desperately trying to find work¡ªI truly have no other options, which is why I¡¯m here begging you."


    Li Yu was severely injured by the people Ji Yu had arranged, and naturally, none of them parted on good terms.


    They dared not confront Ji Yu head-on; they just hoped she could fix his face first so he could find work afterward.


    "Miss Ji, I really only need you to restore my face, and after that, I won¡¯t bother you anymore. If you refuse, I swear I won¡¯t even spare you as a ghost."


    Ji Yu had never encountered someone so absurdly unreasonable before. The malice in his eyes indicated that his threats weren¡¯t empty words.


    "You can go seek other stic surgeons to fix your face. As for my situation, you¡¯re well aware¡ªI¡¯m pregnant and can¡¯t perform surgeries."


    She had a major surgery scheduled in theing weeks.


    The issue with Jiang Yaohuan remained unresolved, and that needed to be addressed first.


    The man¡¯s face darkened significantly; he clearly hadn¡¯t expected her to reject him so decisively.


    "Ji Yu, do you think you¡¯re anything great? The words you¡¯re saying now are nothing but pretentious moralizing. You know full well that only you can fix my face."


    He knew this fact clearly, which was why he had been this agitated from the start, desperate to make her understand that this couldn¡¯t be allowed to continue, or his face would be ruined.


    "Back then, you were the ones who demanded I do this. Now you regret it¡ªso what do you want me to do?"


    Ji Yu couldn¡¯tprehend their logic. The surgery she performed back then had clearly been a great sess; it was his own poor aftercare that caused the current state. Shouldn¡¯t he bear responsibility for his own actions?


    "You ought to know your own situation better than anyone. Go ahead and use your damaged face to make a living."


    They absolutely wouldn¡¯t offer him any kind of support or follow-up.


    The man seemed deeply resentful about the situation. Upon hearing her words, he unexpectedly leapt directly from the second floor.


    Gu Qixiao and Ji Yu didn¡¯t even have time to react before he had hit the ground.


    Though the fall wasn¡¯t life-threatening, it was clear his condition wasn¡¯t good¡ªat the very least, he had likely suffered a fracture.


    Ji Yu had never seen anyone so extreme before, and this behavior appeared to be premeditated.


    "Could this guy be mentally unwell? Or is someone pulling strings behind the scenes? Otherwise, how could he jump so easily like that?"


    Though the height wouldn¡¯t kill anyone, the pain would certainly be agonizing. His behavior quickly drew a lot of attention.


    Many people were curious about what was happening over here, especially when they recognized the two individuals¡ªit sparked even more interest.


    "Aren¡¯t those the two people trending on the intetely¡ªJi Yu and Gu Qixiao?"


    With so many eyes on them¡ªand being recognized¡ªif this wasn¡¯t resolved, it was sure to cause endless troubleter. Who knew how many people woulde forward to criticize them?


    Ji Yu grew increasingly suspicious that there was someone orchestrating things behind this man. How else could they have nned it so precisely?


    "I don¡¯t know the specifics, but isn¡¯t your approach a bit excessive?"


    As Ji Yu descended to check on him, seeing his dark, twisted expression left her speechless.


    "Miss Ji, only you can treat my face. I have full faith in your skills, so please help me. I¡¯ll do anything you ask." His words sounded carefree, but there was no way Ji Yu would operate under current circumstances.


    "I¡¯ve already said I can¡¯t take on high-intensity surgeries right now. Besides, your condition wasn¡¯t caused by me¡ªyour reckless use of medication led to this. You should be responsible for your own decisions."


    Ji Yu wouldn¡¯t just help anyone; even when Gu Qixiao pleaded on behalf of Song Xuan, she firmly refused to perform a second surgery.


    If not for Gu Qixiao¡¯s subsequent good behavior, the oue wouldn¡¯t have been as it was.


    Gu Qixiao seemed to recall those past events, feeling a bit awkward.


    Soon enough, an ambnce arrived, but neither Gu Qixiao nor Ji Yu intended to follow the injured man.


    Assistant Li couldn¡¯t fail to understand their mindset by then.


    Since things hade this far, the situation would need to be handled ordingly.


    "President Gu, don¡¯t worry. I¡¯ll definitely resolve this matter. But those hidden circumstances behind it..."


    If he had to deal with hospital-rted issues, it would inevitably take some time. If the other party escaped in the meantime, things could get tricky.


    "You don¡¯t need to worry about anything else. I¡¯ve already mentally prepared for this situation."


    He had people investigating the matter already. Besides, their opponent¡¯s actions were undoubtedly too outrageous.


    How could someone be so shameless, constantly trying to crush them with the weight of public opinion?


    "Yu, you head back for now and leave this matter to me. But during this period, you should also be careful. If they¡¯ve sent someone now, they¡¯ll surely send others."


    Ji Yu was convinced there had to be a motive behind this incident.


    "If they dare to employ such tactics, it means they¡¯re very familiar with our movements. I¡¯m really curious who betrayed us."


    Only a handful of people had ess to such detailed knowledge of their whereabouts, yet they had no suspects. Most of their inner circle were trusted confidants.


    Such insiders wouldn¡¯t betray them, so someone must be secretly stirring trouble, trying to sow mistrust among them.


    "Whoever it is must be truly despicable."

 Chapter 248: Meeting

    <h4>Chapter 248: Chapter 248: Meeting</h4>


    Isn¡¯t this just pure wickedness? What decent person would use something like this to threaten others?


    "Yu, don¡¯t get so worked up just yet. There must be another way to handle this situation."


    Ji Yu wasn¡¯t exactly agitated¡ªshe just felt that whoever was behind this had truly gone overboard.


    "Forget it. I don¡¯t want to meddle too much in this. I just hope the oue won¡¯t be too terrible."


    She trusted that Gu Qixiao would definitely take care of the matter.


    Besides, she had other matters to attend to herself. Otherwise, she would have surely stayed by his side to handle these things together.


    "I¡¯ll go check on Mom first. I¡¯ll leave this situation in your hands."


    "Go check on Madam Ji without worry. I know this matter has you very anxious, but don¡¯t stress¡ªit¡¯ll work out."


    As long as none of them gave up, the culprits behind this were, in reality, just a handful of people.


    "Afterward, you should also be more cautious around the people around you. If they¡¯re unreliable, you should keep your distance."


    Ji Yu nodded to show she understood.


    When she returned home, she happened to see Xia Chuanhe visiting.


    She actually had some understanding of Xia Chuanhe¡¯s situation.


    "Senior, how is it that you have time to visit my house today?"


    After all, he usually had other patients to attend to.


    But today, he had time toe to her home, which indicated he didn¡¯t have much going on.


    "I came to see you and ask if you had time to have dinner with me tonight."


    His demeanor in this matter was calm and collected, devoid of any awkwardness, which made it hard for her to refuse.


    Ji Yu took dinner ns seriously. After all, their rtionship wasn¡¯t particrly close, but this time, he did agree to her request.


    So inviting him to dinner seemed necessary.


    "Of course."


    Ji Yuanzhou, seeing this unfold, could easily guess what was on Xia Chuanhe¡¯s mind, even without having to think too hard.


    "How about I tag along with you?" He figured that having a third person present would prevent Xia Chuanhe from doing anything inappropriate.


    But Xia Chuanhe appeared quite rxed about the situation.


    No matter what happened, it seemed he wouldn¡¯t give up so easily.


    "I just want to have dinner with Yu. If you want to join us, let¡¯s save that for next time."


    With thingsid out like this, Ji Yu naturally couldn¡¯t bring anyone else along¡ªshe could only agree.


    Still, Ji Yuanzhou felt uneasy about the two of them going out alone. After all, Xia Chuanhe clearly had ulterior motives, and if he did something beyond bounds, Ji Yu would be the one to suffer.


    "Brother, don¡¯t worry. Nothing will happen between us. Besides, he¡¯s been so obvious¡ªhow could I not see through it? I just want him to treat Mom¡¯s condition and that¡¯s all."


    There was no possibility between the two of them. Besides, she had already told him she had a boyfriend¡ªdid he not know?


    "Regardless, it¡¯s better to stay cautious. I¡¯m just afraid that if he does cross the line, you won¡¯t have time to say no."


    She chose the restaurant herself this time.


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t think this was much of a problem¡ªit was merely an attempt to figure things out. There surely wouldn¡¯t be any trouble this time.


    "Brother, trust me. I¡¯ll handle this¡ªI promise. Besides, this matter isn¡¯t a big deal to me." She had great confidence in her ability to deal with it.


    Ji Yuanzhou had no choice but to relent. He told her to call if anything happened and, if Xia Chuanhe disyed any improper behavior, to report him immediately.


    "Aren¡¯t you worried that if he gets detained, no one will be around to help Mom¡¯s condition?"


    "Sure, Mom¡¯s condition is important, but so are you. You¡¯re my sister¡ªyou¡¯re family¡ªit goes without saying I care about you." Ji Yuanzhou spoke with conviction.


    In their family, they all cared deeply for one another. The idea of letting such a situation escte was unthinkable. If saving Madam Ji meant sacrificing his sister, he simply wouldn¡¯t allow it.


    "If Mom found out I ¡¯sent you off¡¯ just to secure her health, she would probably beat me up."


    Ji Yu couldn¡¯t help butugh at his remark. It reminded her of the yful times they used to share, which feltforting.


    But time had rushed by, and with everything unfolding now, those carefree moments seemed out of reach.


    When she headed to the restaurant that evening, she didn¡¯t go out of her way to dress up.


    Xia Chuanhe seemed genuinely serious about the matter, and it was evident from the clear affection in his gaze.


    "Senior, if I¡¯m not mistaken, I believe I¡¯ve already told you that I have a boyfriend. The way you¡¯re looking at me makes me ufortable."


    Agreeing to have dinner didn¡¯t mean she was agreeing to his pursuit.


    "Yu, I know you have a boyfriend, but you two are still just dating. Why can¡¯t I spend time with you and get closer?"


    In his view, nothing was absolute. If he cared about someone, why shouldn¡¯t he boldly express it? What was wrong with that?


    "But I already have someone I love. If you keep trying to approach me like this, it¡¯s going to start repelling me. I understand you can help with Mom¡¯s illness, but I don¡¯t want you to engage in actions that make me ufortable."


    There was no need for them to develop that kind of rtionship, especially since her heart was already set on someone else. How could there be any connection between the two?


    "Yu, you don¡¯t have to jump to conclusions. This matter is very important to me. Honestly, I¡¯ve noticed you for a long time, but back then you didn¡¯t see me."


    This optimal opportunity now warranted getting closer to her.


    "Yu, I¡¯ve always seen us as the mostpatible match. Besides, I can save your mom this time."


    He wasn¡¯t threatening¡ªjust stating the facts.


    "In my eyes, these two matters aren¡¯t mutually exclusive. If we stop at this stage, that might actually be for the best."


    Some stars are meant to shine in the sky, not stay close at hand¡ªlike the rtionship between them.


    "Yu, that¡¯s where you¡¯re wrong. You might think I¡¯m just having fun when ites to you, but I¡¯ve been serious about this from the start."


    He believed in Ji Yu¡¯s sincerity toward rtionships, and he wasn¡¯t going to give up so easily.

 Chapter 249: I Believe in You

    <h4>Chapter 249: Chapter 249: I Believe in You</h4>


    Ji Yu couldn¡¯t understand what was going on with this person. Why must he be so persistent about this matter? Do their rtionship need to develop to this extent to be satisfactory for him?


    "Senior, you actually should be very aware of my character. I would rather break than bend in this matter."


    "I know." He was well aware of this, which is why he didn¡¯t use forceful means to take her away.


    But their rtionship could maintain like this, and perhaps then she would realize that he was actually the most suitable person for her.


    "I don¡¯t think there¡¯s anything significant about this rtionship. Besides, someone else has already upied a ce in my heart, and that¡¯s something I cannot change."


    They had been together for so long and have gone through so much, how could they just casually like someone else? Also, their rtionship wasn¡¯t that strong either.


    "Senior, your affection seems somewhat inexplicable, making it difficult for me to understand, so we really need to have a good talk."


    If it were anyone else, she would probably be angry at this moment. But because he could treat her mother, she could only endure for the time being.


    Seeing Ji Yu struggling to hold back her anger, he couldn¡¯t help butugh aloud.


    "You are really as adorable as ever. Don¡¯t worry, I definitely won¡¯t force you. And in my heart, I have already decided that our rtionship will never develop to the extent you imagine."


    He did not want to use such forceful means to make Ji Yu dislike him.


    He just wanted to prove that they were actually suitable for each other.


    Ji Yu suddenly didn¡¯t know what to say, maybe because his current behavior indeed left her a little helpless.


    "Senior, in my impression, you never seemed to care much about these things. Why are you suddenly bringing this up today?" He usually seemed indifferent, never appearing to be interested in matters of the heart.


    "When I saw you, I had a very good impression of you. Meeting you again this time, I¡¯m hoping we could be together." How could he make such efforts with no purpose? Was it really just to save her mother?


    Ji Yu suddenly felt at a loss, perhaps because his sudden confession caught her off guard.


    "Senior, I hope you understand that we can be veryfortable as friends, but if the rtionship develops further, it will turn very sour."


    Some people are meant to be just friends, as developing any further would lead to awkwardness.


    "I understand what you mean, so I¡¯m not forcing anything. I¡¯m just probing."


    Their conversation turned normal after that.


    He was always good at finding topics, so when talking about Madam Ji, he wondered if he should use different methods.


    "I believe you also see your aunt¡¯s condition. Perhaps stimting her in another way could wake her up."


    But the chances of such things were slim.


    It was too difficult to handle this matter well.


    They discussed a strategy for a while, but still couldn¡¯te up with a solution.


    Unexpectedly, while their discussion yielded no results, photos of the two of them had already been sent to Gu Qixiao¡¯s phone.


    "Song Xuan, I don¡¯t understand what you¡¯re implying, but I trust Yupletely. She¡¯s definitely not that kind of person."


    "Xiao, do you have no doubts at all? She wasughing and joking with another man so openly, which clearly shows she is not being faithful to you."


    She was extremely angry about this and wanted Gu Qixiao to understand that there was already a problem between them.


    "What happens between us is none of your business, and I believe she has her reasons for anything she does. Betraying me is definitely not something she would do."


    From the beginning, Gu Qixiao didn¡¯t believe these words, and how could such things be taken seriously?


    "What we¡¯ve gone through together is something you will never understand." The experiences they had together brought them closer and made both understand each other¡¯s character clearly.


    Moreover, he knew very well what Ji Yu was doing recently, and it might even have something to do with Madam Ji¡¯s condition.


    "Xiao, why are you so stubborn about this? In your rtionship, you¡¯re always the one giving."


    Every time she saw this, she was insanely jealous and desperately wanted Gu Qixiao back by her side. Only then could they be together.


    "Song Xuan, haven¡¯t you caused enough trouble? In my eyes, everything Yu does has a reason. She¡¯ll tell me the situation, and I don¡¯t need you to discuss this."


    If they didn¡¯t have this trust between them, there would be no reason to continue.


    There¡¯s no rationale in always being suspicious about these things.


    "Xiao, why do you trust her so much? This photo already looks intimate to me. Who knows, they might do more intimate things."


    Song Xuan was so anxious that she was almost in tears.


    It¡¯s not clear what led to such trust between them.


    "If you don¡¯t have anything else to say, I¡¯ll hang up. I¡¯m not at all interested in your affairs, and this is purely baseless. How could this be pinned on Ji Yu?"


    "Xiao, I¡¯m sick. Can youe see me? I know you probably hate me a lot right now, but I really miss you. I want you toe see me."


    She had only ever liked one person from the beginning, but his attitude gradually made her feel cold.


    "You don¡¯t need to worry about these things. If you¡¯re sick, go see a doctor, or Assistant Li can help you resolve it."


    But that person would never be him.


    Their rtionship was not as close as she imagined.


    "If nothing else happens, don¡¯t call again. I know you might still be jealous of Yu, but everything Yu does has its own reasons."


    He spoke with determination at this point.


    How can you doubt when you truly like someone?

 Chapter 250 Reasonable

    <h4>Chapter 250: Chapter 250 Reasonable</h4>


    In Gu Qixiao¡¯s heart, no matter what Ji Yu did, she was always the person he loved most.


    Ji Yu hadn¡¯t expected that simply having a meal with Xia Chuanhe would lead to intimate photos being taken.


    But for her, this wasn¡¯t a big deal.


    When she saw Gu Qixiao¡¯spletely trusting gaze without a hint of suspicion, she suddenly felt that the matter between them truly needed a resolution.


    "Gu Qixiao, why don¡¯t we meet the parents tomorrow?"


    Even if it gets awkward, the two of them could face it together.


    Gu Qixiao was a little surprised when he heard her suggestion.


    "Yu, I don¡¯t mean to pressure you into meeting the parents. If you feel ufortable, we can wait and do itter."


    Originally, these matters weren¡¯t anything serious.


    But Ji Yu was very earnest.


    "I trust in the feelings between us and believe we can make it to the end, so let¡¯s meet the parents this time."


    Truth be told, they were no longer the same as before.


    "Gu Qixiao, I sincerely appreciate how you¡¯ve treated me. You¡¯ve made me realize that genuine love still exists in the world. That¡¯s why I¡¯m willing to meet the parents now. It¡¯s something I truly want to do myself."


    She didn¡¯t feel forced at all.


    "At first, I thought you¡¯d surely misunderstand when you saw the photo, but now, your reactions havepletely surprised me. They made me realize how well we already understand each other."


    The two of them understood each other¡¯s thoughts better than anyone.


    Song Xuan probably never imagined that her photo would actually strengthen their rtionship, making them realize each other¡¯s importance.


    Ji Yu was, in fact, quite picky when it came to matters of love, but for some reason, after meeting Gu Qixiao, it seemed like those concerns became insignificant.


    "Our meeting was an ident, being together now is an ident, but the oue between us will not be an ident."


    This was a result they had both carefully prepared for over a long time.


    Gu Qixiao was deeply moved in his heart.


    It was rare for him to show such an emotional reaction.


    "Yu, I really don¡¯t know what to say."


    Perhaps when one is overwhelmed, it bes hard to put feelings into words.


    Ji Yu, on the other hand, felt that such matters were perfectly natural, and there was no need to dwell on irrelevant things.


    "Anyway, we¡¯ve been together for quite some time now. There¡¯s really no need to worry about too many other factors."


    It¡¯s enough to know they are a perfect match for each other.


    But Ji Yu still needed to prepare properly, so they decided to meet the parents three dayster.


    When Gu Qixiao returned home, his smile was so wide it seemed like it could stretch to the back of his head.


    "What¡¯s the matter? Did something happen to make you so happy?" Mr. Gu was seeing such an expression on his son¡¯s face for the first time. Even though his son wasn¡¯t someone whopletely hid his emotions, he had never seen him this delighted.


    "Dad, three days from now, I hope you¡¯ll meet the person I love and also ept our rtionship."


    He said this with eyes full of light.


    Mr. Gu rarely encountered such moments, but seeing his son this joyful had unexpectedly brought him some happiness too.


    "You¡¯re quite something, doing all this. Still, I¡¯m d you¡¯ve found someone you love." He wasn¡¯t resistant to the idea of his son having someone special in his life and even hoped they would truly make it together.


    "I know you didn¡¯t approve of the match I arranged for you before. This time, I¡¯ll see how good your chosen partner really is." He couldn¡¯t help wanting topare, though in his heart, he genuinely hoped Ji Yu could be his daughter-inw.


    "Dad, trust me. She¡¯s an amazing person¡ªso incredible that you¡¯ll understand when you meet her."


    Even though Ji Yu asionally seemed somewhat hot-tempered, deep down, she was the gentlest person.


    "Alright, alright. You know, every time you mention this girl you love, your eyes light up. Seeing the confidence in your words, how could I not trust you?" He trusted his son¡¯s judgment.


    Still, he was curious¡ªwhat kind of girl could have such an allure, enough to change his son in this way?


    "By the way, you know what she likes, don¡¯t you? So I can prepare something ahead of time and avoid any awkward situations."


    "We¡¯ve got plenty of jewelry at home, haven¡¯t we? Girls generally like those kinds of things. Yu doesn¡¯tck for anything." He still seemed to have these details in mind.


    "Looks like you¡¯ve already picked out gifts for your future wife. But I do hope you¡¯ll exin things to me clearly afterward."


    He wanted to know when they had officially started dating.


    "As for Song Xuan¡ªalthough I don¡¯t want to interfere too much in your rtionship, emotional debts are always hard to repay. Trying to resolve the matter of her life-saving act won¡¯t be easy."


    After all, that was a favor tied to the value of a life.


    Repaying that debt wouldn¡¯t be simple.


    Gu Qixiao understood this, but sometimes it wasn¡¯t possible to ept such things easily.


    "I n to handle this situation more passively. Providing her with a good life can count as repayment, but since she continues to demand more, I can only separate myself from her for now."


    Their rtionship was devoid of any romantic feelings, but forcing them together would just make both of them suffer.


    "My feelings for her aren¡¯t romantic at all¡ªwe¡¯re more like siblings."


    Or perhaps not even siblings¡ªjust remnants of gratitude for saving his life, which had once fostered a slight fondness that had now entirely disappeared.


    "I never expected the things she said then, and her actions have thoroughly crossed my boundaries. The person I love could never live together with someone like her. I won¡¯t allow her to remain in my life anymore."


    Gu Qixiao was unwavering in his stance, and once he¡¯d spoken, he wouldn¡¯t let her continue with such hopes.


    "Even though that¡¯s how you feel, she surely still harbors hopes of being with you. With those expectations, she may do increasingly inappropriate things. It¡¯s better if you rify things with her."


    Many unnecessaryplications arise from such misunderstandings.

 Chapter 251 Kidnapping

    <h4>Chapter 251: Chapter 251 Kidnapping</h4>


    Ji Yu had long sincee to terms with these kinds of situations.


    She even wanted to meet the parents sooner rather thanter.


    Discussing their marriage then wouldn¡¯t be a bad idea either.


    But she hadn¡¯t expected an ident to ur the day before meeting the parents.


    "Doctor Ji, I think my face can¡¯t hold out anymore. Can you perform the surgery immediately?" Jiang Yaohuan had been trying hard to prepare her face for some time, but for some reason, its condition had been getting worse and worse.


    Ji Yu felt a headacheing on. She didn¡¯t understand why Jiang Yaohuan kept using those products on her face.


    "Don¡¯t you know the condition of your face? Continuing to use those things will just make it worse. Why won¡¯t you listen?"


    There were some products that simply couldn¡¯t be used casually, especially with how sensitive her face was¡ªhow could it tolerate those kinds of items?


    "Doctor Ji, I really don¡¯t know why it¡¯s turned out like this. I can¡¯t do anything about it now. Can you move my surgery up?"


    Ji Yu had already agreed to do the surgery for her. It was just that other matters had dyed the procedure. Seeing her current situation now, there was indeed an urgent need to proceed immediately.


    When she reexamined Jiang Yaohuan, Ji Yu realized her condition was far worse than she¡¯d initially imagined.


    "When ites to using these skincare products, I hope you¡¯ll be more cautious in the future. With how sensitive your face is, it simply can¡¯t handle products iming to have active effects."


    If she kept going like this, she was only harming herself.


    "From now on, you must listen to me. If you don¡¯t, I¡¯m afraid there won¡¯t be any hope left for your face."


    Jiang Yaohuan wouldn¡¯t dare to disobey; what she cared about most was her face.


    Luckily, it wasn¡¯t toote yet.


    Shu Xinrui, seeing the condition Jiang Yaohuan was in, appeared visibly startled.


    For once, she offered some rarefort, telling Jiang Yaohuan not to panic.


    "Actually, this surgery isn¡¯t very painful. Besides, given the condition of your face, the procedure really needs to be done as soon as possible. During the recovery period, remember not to use those products anymore. Just apply the ointments I prescribe."


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t want her patient to be too anxious.


    Jiang Yaohuan didn¡¯t know how she felt inside. By the time the surgery was over, she still hadn¡¯t fully processed the fact that the ordeal with her face hade to an end.


    "The surgery went extremely well. Although your facial condition wasn¡¯t very good, the results were pretty much in line with my predictions," Ji Yu remarked, her authority in this field unquestionable.


    If Ji Yu said recovery was possible, then it absolutely would be. But if Jiang Yaohuan continued to use unapproved products instead of following the prescribed treatment, things would undoubtedly worsen.


    "Does this mean I¡¯ll have to rely on this ointment for the rest of my life?" Jiang Yaohuan couldn¡¯t help but worry about the future.


    "Of course not. These ointments are only temporary. Once your wounds have healed, we won¡¯t need to use them anymore."


    They were all well aware of this.


    Some matters couldn¡¯t be forced, but it would be ideal if the patient adhered to the doctor¡¯s advice.


    "There¡¯s no need for thanks. What¡¯s important now is maintaining your current progress. Rest well, and when it¡¯s time to remove the stitches, I¡¯ll let you know."


    When Ji Yu had nned the surgery, she¡¯d already taken all these issues into ount.


    Seeing the surgery conclude sessfully gave her a sense of relief.


    "Sister Yu, I could¡¯ve taken care of this surgery myself. You didn¡¯t have to shoulder such a big risk and handle it personally," Tian said.


    Tian felt that Ji Yu should focus on her pregnancy instead. He¡¯d noticed earlier that Ji Yu had clearly started to experience nausea.


    She had barely managed to suppress it in the moment, but pushing herself like this was harmful to her health.


    Shu Xinrui chuckled softly. "I printed everything out beforehand. I couldn¡¯t refuse this case, especially because I really do admire her face."


    After all, it was Jiang Yaohuan¡¯s face.


    Still, at her age, Shu Xinrui didn¡¯t feel the need to worry so much about these matters.


    "Given her age, even if the surgery seeds, it might not be long before it starts falling apart again."


    Ji Yu didn¡¯t think it would deteriorate that quickly.


    "You should have faith in a perfect face. Heaven has its way of favoring it."


    Jiang Yaohuan should actually be considered one of the more outstanding examples of this kind of case. Besides, Ji Yu hoped to one day see her on the big screen again, radiating confidence.


    With that, this matter was more or less resolved.


    But the surgery had drained Ji Yu¡¯s energy considerably, so she nned to head home for some proper rest before tackling anything else.


    Yet, Ji Yu¡¯s car barely made it halfway before being stopped.


    "If you don¡¯t want to die, get out of the car," a voicemanded with an intimidating tone. From their demeanor, it was clear they were professional kidnappers. There was no other exnation for their behavior.


    "I don¡¯t know what you want with me, but before you take me, you might want to consider whether you¡¯re prepared to silence me for good."


    With so many people backing her, they would need to seriously think through the consequences.


    But it was evident that these kidnappers didn¡¯t fully grasp what they were getting into.


    "Doctor Ji, whatever you have to say, you can save it forter. For now, we need you toe with us."


    Ji Yu suddenly had a bad feeling in her gut. If they really nned to abduct her, what could they possibly want?


    She was already trying to discreetly send out an alert about her kidnapping, but the area seemed to have a signal jammer, leaving her unable to send any messages.


    "I don¡¯t know what your goal is, but your actions so far are making me extremely annoyed. Surely you¡¯re aware of my identity and the trouble you¡¯ll bring upon yourselves. I shouldn¡¯t need to spell it out," she said.


    She maintained an air ofposure, as if nothing they could do would affect her.


    "It can¡¯t be helped. We were hired to deal with you, and naturally, we have to see the job through." The kidnappers had clearly assessed the situation in advance.


    Ji Yu understood that if they were unafraid of her connections, they must have prepared thoroughly beforehand.


    She knew resisting wouldn¡¯t keep her from being taken, and being pregnant made the situation even more precarious.


    "Doctor Ji, there¡¯s no need to worry. We¡¯ll handle you with the utmost care," they said with mock reassurance.

 Chapter 252 Teasing

    <h4>Chapter 252: Chapter 252 Teasing</h4>


    When Ji Yu heard them say that sentence, she already knew what was going on.


    "You¡¯d better think about the price you¡¯ll pay if youy a hand on me, otherwise the consequences will be severe if you really do."


    As long as she wasn¡¯t dead, she would definitely take revenge on them.


    The expressions of a few people changed slightly, but they also knew that someone powerful had Ji Yu¡¯s back.


    But they had taken the money, so how could they possibly stop now?


    Ji Yu also knew that dragging this out wasn¡¯t a solution.


    However, there were hardly any vehicles passing by here, which was indeed dangerous.


    The driver¡¯s situation wasn¡¯t good either; it was evident she was trembling with fear.


    They saw that Ji Yu still had no intention of opening the door, so they simply smiled at the driver and said, "If you open the door for us now, we can spare you. But if you don¡¯t, once the door opens, you¡¯ll be the first to go."


    How that door would open was something only they knew.


    The driver, looking at the situation before him, was so frightened that his eyes went wide.


    He turned to look at Ji Yu in the back seat, clearly seeking her advice.


    "If you open the door now, you¡¯ll truly be dead."


    These people could not be trusted at all with their words.


    Moreover, their whole pitch was undoubtedly to tempt him and get him toe out quickly.


    "Ji Yu, you can¡¯t survive anyway, yet you still want him to go to the grave with you, how ck-hearted!"


    Clearly, they were still trying to break the driver¡¯s psychological defense, trying to make him not continue like this.


    The driver¡¯s already fragile psychological defense waspletely broken at this moment.


    But when he actually opened the car door, what greeted him was a gun.


    "Just as expected, a cowardly fool scared to death."


    Ji Yu had long anticipated such a moment, but she still made no move.


    "Doctor Ji,e on, let¡¯s see how we¡¯re going to deal with you."


    Ji Yu¡¯s expression was very calm, looking like she had full confidence in the situation before her.


    They were already a bit uneasy, and now seeing this, they couldn¡¯t help but wonder whether she had prepared in advance, which was why she was acting this way.


    "Ji Yu, did he already know we woulde for you, so he purposely set a trap and waited for us to fall into it?"


    Seeing how cautious they were, Ji Yu was speechless and wondered if they really thought a group of big men would be afraid of a woman like her.


    "What on earth is going on, shouldn¡¯t you be more aware of it than I am? Moreover, didn¡¯t you consider the ultimate consequences before doing this?"


    They should¡¯ve already investigated her background before making this choice.


    However, Ji Yu didn¡¯t know if Gu Qixiao had realized her disappearance yet.


    Although they hadn¡¯t been dyed in the car for very long, at least it might help someone realize something was wrong.


    On Hong¡¯s side, there should also be an exact location.


    "You better not y any tricks on us. If you dare, don¡¯t me us for being unkind." They appeared extremely furious, acting as if they truly no longer had her in their sights.


    "Honestly, people as timid as you shouldn¡¯t be kidnappers."


    They reallycked the guts to be kidnappers, just as the things they were wary of hadn¡¯t even happened, yet they imagined them.


    "I would also like to know who sent you. Guess the person who sent someone like you isn¡¯t particrly smart."


    Recently, it seemed she hadn¡¯t offended anyone.


    If anyone had the guts, she couldn¡¯t even guess who it would be.


    "We won¡¯t tell you who sent us, you¡¯ll find out in due time."


    In fact, this could easily be guessed; there were only a few people she might have offended, and she hadn¡¯t been in contact with many people recently.


    Just didn¡¯t know what exactly this person wanted to do.


    Very soon, Ji Yu was taken to a small dark room.


    They were probably contacting the person who instructed them.


    Ji Yu groped around the room and found no way of escaping.


    Upon careful search, she also didn¡¯t find any suitable tool.


    When they returned, although she was covered in dirt, she had no handy tool at all.


    "Doctor Ji, you¡¯re really lucky this time."


    Their smile was a bit lewd, looking as if they were already prepared to do certain things.


    Seeing their expressions, Ji Yu could roughly guess some things, but those things would surely not happen to her.


    "Do you really dare touch me? Do you know the consequences of doing so? If you let me go now, there¡¯s still time, and I won¡¯t hold this against you."


    She, herself, was someone with backing. Besides, she had been missing for quite some time now, and the other side surely knew about it. It was just unknown when they coulde find her.


    Because of her status and background, they were also hesitant at this moment, always worrying that something might go wrongter.


    "Brother, this woman is right. With her family background and fianc¨¦, we really can¡¯t deal with them. If we really do something to this woman, chances are we won¡¯t have anything gooding our way."


    They were also terrified for their lives.


    "You know Li Yu, right? His current situation was caused by people I sent. If you reallyy a hand on me, you¡¯d best kill me, or else it won¡¯t be so simple when Ie after you."


    How could they not know of Li Yu¡¯s miserable state?


    Just didn¡¯t expect such a thing to be done by a woman, and seeing her visage, she was indeed very ruthless.


    "Brother, if this woman can deal with Li Yu like that, for us, we probably won¡¯t be able to handle it even more."


    One must know that with all of Li Yu¡¯s assets, he ended up in such a state, now lying in the hospital, possibly spending the rest of his days on a hospital bed.


    For small fries like them, if anything were to happen, it would be beyond trivial for her to deal with.


    "Did you really do that? Howe I remember his situation seemed to be caused by an overseas organization?"


    "So how do you think he offended an overseas organization?" Ji Yu asked with a smile.

 Chapter 253: Foreign Organization

    <h4>Chapter 253: Chapter 253: Foreign Organization</h4>


    "I advise you all to be smarter about this. After all, I¡¯ve already shown immense patience regarding what you¡¯ve done."


    She could still reason with them now, but if anything truly happened, there might not even be room left for negotiation.


    "If you have something to say, just say it directly. I can provide you with correspondingpensation. But if you¡¯re determined to keep harming me, you¡¯d better consider the consequences carefully."


    They dared not act anymore, especially after learning that the situation with Li Yu was orchestrated by Ji Yu.


    Fear gripped their hearts. If something truly happened, wouldn¡¯t they be the first ones sacrificed?


    "Doctor Ji, we actually didn¡¯t want to treat you like this. But our employer said to destroy your reputation. We have no choice, so please just reluctantly ept this."


    Even at this moment, with such an attitude, Ji Yu couldn¡¯t help but question whether they truly had the guts.


    "So, you¡¯re dead set on opposing me?"


    Actually, it wasn¡¯t entirely urate. They were still deeply hesitant inside, but since they¡¯d already taken money from their employer, they couldn¡¯t just let her go like this.


    "I can give you a few days to think it over. After all, I¡¯m right here. You¡¯re not going to lose track of me."


    They pondered for a moment. It did seem logical, so the group dared not say much further and decided to step out and assess the situation.


    As it turned out, Ji Yu¡¯s condition was indeed dire, though there was still room for maneuver.


    As long as she remained away for an entire day, news would surely reach the others. She refused to believe that Gu Qixiao wouldn¡¯te to save her.


    Meanwhile, Gu Qixiao and Ji Yuanzhou had scoured every possible location but found no trace of Ji Yu. They did, however, discover her car abandoned in a remote corner.


    The driver inside the car had long ceased breathing.


    Faced with such a scene, their expressions turned grave.


    "Looks like Yu is indeed in trouble." Gu Qixiao couldn¡¯t ignore the situation, not when things had escted this far. Surely, the other party had further ns.


    They immediately contacted local personnel to investigate the surveince footage, but still, no results. The entire section of surveince had been cut out.


    "I know someone who might have the ability to restore the surveince footage," Gu Qixiao said, recalling Hong.


    Hong hurried over as soon as he heard Ji Yu was in trouble.


    "These surveince clips have indeed been edited, and many segments are fabricated," he said with familiarity, meticulously analyzing and searching for clues.


    "Sister Yu barely stayed peaceful for a few days, and now this happens. What¡¯s wrong with these people?"


    His heart harbored resentment toward the two for failing to protect Ji Yu.


    In truth, he didn¡¯t even need to verbalize it. The two were already ovee with guilt. After all, their sister and the woman they cared about had been abducted¡ªthey could never ept such a reality.


    Fortunately, the surveince footage could be restored. However, those behind this operation clearly knew precisely which areas had no surveince, so their movements remainedrgely hidden. There was no trace of their travel route.


    "These people are clearly professional kidnappers. They must have other gadgets at their disposal to disrupt the signal like this. As it stands, we can¡¯t gather further information."


    Even with the surveince footage recovered, the adversary¡¯s location remained a mystery.


    Ji Yu genuinely didn¡¯t want things to escte awkwardly; she simply wanted the matter resolved quickly and clearly.


    But for reasons unknown, the more she tried to exin, the messier matters became.


    "What will it take for you to let me go? I can offer you plenty." Such situations called for careful consideration.


    "We do love money, but if this operation fails, what happens to our business in the future?"


    They were in it for the long run, not short-term gains.


    "You could just tell me who ordered you to capture me. Let me take care of her then, and you¡¯ll avoid being reprimanded."


    Ji Yu urgently wanted to know who was behind all this.


    However, not many people would harbor such resentment. It was most likely someone who fancied Gu Qixiao.


    "If we tell you this, then we¡¯ll truly be left without clients. After all, this kind of information spreads far too easily."


    "The fact that someone would hire you for such work is already surprising given your skill level. It¡¯s probably because you¡¯re cheap and the one trying to target me doesn¡¯t have much money, right?" Ji Yu spected, unable to pinpoint which of her enemies might be so impoverished.


    The lead kidnapper immediately felt insulted but couldn¡¯t find words sufficient to regain their dignity.


    "We might be inexpensive, but we¡¯re reliable. Look at you¡ªyou¡¯re in our hands now, aren¡¯t you? If we decided to deal with you, it¡¯s only a matter of time."


    Despite their apparent audacity, their actions seemed contradictory¡ªtimid enough not to harm her, yet bold enough to murder the driver.


    Such people offered no easy means of categorization.


    Ji Yu couldn¡¯t even determine how best to describe them.


    "I suggest you resolve this thoroughly. Who knows, maybe this is your ticket to unimaginable wealth, and you¡¯d never have to pursue this line of work again."


    Contemting her suggestion, they seemed to momentarily agree¡ªit did make sense.


    If their boldness served them well in the future, perhaps it wouldn¡¯t be such a bad idea after all.


    "Doctor Ji, you make it sound simple. But if we lose all business afterward, we really might starve. People like us can¡¯t live normal lives."


    They remained perpetually on guard against others, mentally fixated on whether outsiders despised or judged them.


    Under such circumstances, they couldn¡¯t coexist within regr societal environments. From the beginning, they had thought this through andmitted to seeing it to the bitter end.


    "Do none of you wish to return to normalcy? Why persist with this kind of work?" Surely, they had families¡ªalbeit temporarily out of reach.


    "We can¡¯t go back. If retreat isn¡¯t an option, then we might as well follow through until the end."


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