Chapter 651 That Little Brat From the Lu family!
"First Affiliated Hospital?"
Fang Qingyun was a little surprised.
The news of Mei Yanqing's illness had long spread. How long had it been? By right, he should have almost fully recovered. Why did Second Master suddenly want to go over at this time?
The corners of Lu Huaiyu's lips curled up slightly.
"Yes. Coincidentally, Elder Mei's youngest disciple is also free today. So, it would be most suitable for us to go over together."
Fang Qingyun did not quite understand what he had said.
"Elder Mei's youngest disciple?"
Was that not Yu Pingchuan?
Lu Huaiyu crossed his long legs. His slender and fair fingers tapped lightly on his knees as he spoke in an unhurried tone.
"Well, the person is... right here."
Right here?
Right here?!
A sudden realization came to Fang Qingyun and his eyes instantly widened.
"A-Ah Li?!"
Ning Li subconsciously sat up straight, her whole body tensed up.
When she had been in the gallery, she had been so busy dealing with the matter of the painting that she had not felt anything. Now that she was in this enclosed space with Lu Huaiyu, she finally perceived the danger.
When Fang Qingyun saw her reaction, what else was there for him not to understand?
Due to his shock, his voice had raised an octave.
"Ah Li, you're Elder Mei's disciple?!"
Ning Li was silent.
"... Yes."
This news had come too suddenly, and it was so shocking that Fang Qingyun was completely dumbfounded.
Everyone knew that Mei Yanqing had only taken in three disciples in his lifetime, and Yu Pingchuan was the youngest. Now... how had Ning Li suddenly made an appearance?!
Mei Yanqing was already 80 years old this year! Even Yu Pingchuan was already 54 years old!
Ning Li actually-
After a long while, Fang Qingyun could not help but mutter involuntarily, "Then with your seniority, wouldn't you have already leveled at least half of the art world?"
Ning Li, "..."
This was why she had always addressed Yu Pingchuan as Teacher Yu.
Calling him "Senior Brother" was extremely awkward.
It was as awkward as Wang Yan calling her Junior Master Aunt.
Of course, there were probably others that were even more awkward.
For example, today's Sheng Ruxue.
People with the titles of Senior Sister and Senior Brother were both highly experienced seniors in the art world and would likely have taken in disciples.
Most of these people were middle-aged and had taken in disciples one after another.
By her estimates, Sheng Ruxue was the youngest among them.
However, she was even one year younger than Sheng Ruxue.
However, she was two generations older than Sheng Ruxue in terms of rank.
In the entire sect, she was the only one there. It was really...
Tiring.
Lu Huaiyu tilted his head to look at her, obviously waiting for her to take the initiative to give him an explanation.
Ning Li sighed and sorted out her thoughts before speaking.
"Three years ago, when Master went to Lincheng to take a break, we had encountered each other."
At that time, she would go to the park every Saturday and Sunday to draw sketches for people. Mei Yanqing had unintentionally seen one of her drawings in someone else's hands and had specially set out to search for her.
However, when he arrived that day, Ning Li had already packed up and left.
Thus, for the next few days after that, Mei Yanqing went to that spot early in the morning to wait for her.
It was not until the next Saturday that he had finally found her.
That day, he sat by Ning Li's side and watched her draw the whole day.
In the evening, when Ning Li had decided to pack up and leave, he asked her a question.
"Would you like to learn to draw with me?"
And just like that, Ning Li had become Mei Yanqing's disciple. After becoming his disciple, she had discovered that she had three other senior sisters and brothers, and the youngest one was more than thirty years older than her. It had been too late for regrets.
Fang Qingyun recalled what had happened before and finally, it dawned on him.
"No wonder Teacher Yu is so close to you!"
How could his junior sister not have a good relationship with him?
Lu Huaiyu raised his eyebrows.
That's right.
No wonder Yu Pingchuan took such great care of Ning Li.
No wonder he had been so angry when he had found out that Ning Li and he were together.
No wonder...
He suddenly thought of something and let out a soft "Ah".
Some time ago, his grandfather mentioned that Elder Mei's temper had become especially bad these past few months, especially towards him.
At that time, he had even given him a little advice, but now that he thought about it...
Lu Huaiyu's fingers paused.
Ning Li looked over.
"Second Brother."
She looked at him and said seriously, "Master's temper is actually... quite good. It's just that he's a little too straightforward when he speaks. When we get to the hospital later, just listen to what he says and don't take any of it to heart."
Lu Huaiyu, "..."
The corners of his eyes twitched slightly when he remembered the chopped steamed chicken that Yu Pingchuan had dismembered previously.
Half an hour later, they arrived at the First Affiliated Hospital of Xijing University.
Ning Li and Lu Huaiyu got out of the car and walked in together.
Ning Li went straight to the inpatient department. It was obvious that she was very familiar with this place and this was not her first time here.
Lu Huaiyu was deep in thought.
"So, when Elder Mei suddenly went for a physical examination that day..."
Ning Li nodded.
"So, during the New Year, when you bought so many New Year gifts..."
Ning Li nodded again. Lu Huaiyu pressed the tip of his tongue against his upper palate. After a moment of silence, he smiled.
He had long thought that Ning Li and Yu Pingchuan's relationship was not ordinary. However, he had never expected that they were actually senior and junior.
Ning Li squeezed his hand and whispered, "Second Brother, I didn't lie to you. You asked me If I was Teacher Yu's student, but I denied
it."
Lu Huaiyu stopped in his tracks and let out an angry laugh.
How could this young lady be so self-righteous when she had done something wrong?
"If it wasn't for the fake painting, when were you going to tell me?" He lowered his head slightly. "I asked you if you wanted to come and see Elder Mei and what did you say? Hmm?"
Ning Li blinked. "I said, when the time is right..."
Lu Huaiyu merely looked at her.
Ning Li gently stroked the palm of his hand with her fingers and softened her voice. "Second Brother..."
Lu Huaiyu raised his eyebrows slightly.
"Is this your attitude when admitting your mistake?"
Ning Li stared at him with her sparkling peach blossom eyes.
Lu Huaiyu's Adam's apple rolled and lowered his head to kiss her.
Almost at the same time, a furious voice came from a short distance away.
"That little brat from the Lu family! What are you doing?!"
Chapter 652 Grandpa and Grandson Debt
Ning Li's heart skipped a beat and she immediately pushed Lu Huaiyu away.
Sensing something, Lu Huaiyu turned his head to look.
On the left side of the small flower bed, Mei Yanqing, who was dressed in a hospital gown, was looking their way. His face was as black as the bottom of a pot.
Yu Pingchuan stood beside him, looking over with a gaze that was difficult to describe.
Ning Li's breathing stopped.
The inpatient department was so big. How could it have been so coincidental that they would happen to see this scene?
Mei Yanqing raised his hand and pointed at Lu Huaiyu with his trembling hand. "Pingchuan! Pingchuan, you saw it, right?! Ah! That little brat, that little brat! He's crazy!"
Yu Pingchuan said hesitantly, "... Master, it's not like you don't know that he's Ah Li's boyfriend..."
"What's wrong with a boyfriend?! Is that how a boyfriend should behave?!"
With a pained heart, Mei Yanqing looked around.
"Where's my walking stick?!"
Yu Pingchuan calmly reminded him.
"Oh, you kept saying that your body was feeling better this morning. You said that you didn't need that thing and said to throw it away."
Mei Yan choked.
He clenched his teeth. Since he could not find anything useful, he could only shout at Ning Li.
"Ah Li! Come here!"
Ning Li's eyelids twitched.
Lu Huaiyu laughed, turned his head to look at Ning Li, and asked in a low voice, "Is this what you consider as Elder Mei having a good temper?" Ning Li, "..."
She looked up and said seriously, "Don't take the first part seriously. You just have to remember the last part."
Seeing the two of them behaving in this manner, Mei Yanqing's temples began to throb.
He could not help but raise his voice.
"Ah Li!"
Ning Li was shocked.
She now felt that her master actually did have a point With the current state of his body, he could indeed be discharged from the hospital.
Lu Huaiyu held Ning Li's hand and walked forward. He smiled and said, "Let's go. Elder Mei is calling for you."
Ning Li followed obediently. Sensing the terrifying aura around Mei Yanqing, Yu Pingchuan whispered, "Master, please control yourself. Everyone is watching..."
"Me? Did that little b*stard control himself?!"
He even knew that there were people around! Just like that, just like that...
"Pingchuan, are you just going to watch Ah Li get bullied? How did you become a senior brother?!"
Yu Pingchuan opened his mouth but did not say anything. He snuck a glance at Lu Huaiyu. If not for this kid, would he have been implicated?
Back then, when he had asked Ning Li to report the situation to Jinse Bay, Ning Li had only told their master that she was now in a relationship with Lu Huaiyu.
Yu Pingchuan had been so angry that he had told Mei Yanqing about how they had confirmed their relationship on the eve of Ning Li's 18th birthday.
Because of this, Mei Yanqing had scolded Lu Qishan for several months.
Now, just witnessing this scene, his master was already so upset. If he had seen the way Ah Li had looked when she had come over for dinner on her 18th birthday, would he not go crazy from anger?
Yu Pingchuan could not think about this matter without getting angry every time.
As they were speaking, Ning Li and Lu Huaiyu had arrived before them.
"Master, Senior Brother."
The situation was special, so Ning Li stood up straight and addressed them obediently.
Lu Huaiyu had a smile on his lips as he greeted them politely.
"Elder Mei, Teacher Yu."
Mei Yanqing's icy gaze fell on the pair's hands which were still clasped together.
Ning Li tried to struggle free, but she could not. All she could do was squeeze his hand again. Only then did he let go, although his fingers accidentally brushed past the inside of her wrist.
Ning Li pursed her lips. This man was really bold!
However, at this moment, she could not care about anything else.
"Master, why did you come outside? Didn't the doctor say that you would be under observation in the hospital for a period of time?"
Mei Yan smiled coldly.
"I'm all better now!"
He was so angry that he was now full of energy!
He looked at Ning Li.
"Ah Li, go and tell them to hurry up and get me discharged from the hospital! I can't stay in this place another day!"
Yu Pingchuan gave Ning Li a helpless look.
Ning Li went forward and took hold of his arm.
"Didn't you promise me before? You said that you would listen to the doctor and try your best to cooperate."
"I've already cooperated enough! Was it Pingchuan who called you again?".
As he spoke, he finally cast Lu Huaiyu a look of disdain,
"You should have just come alone. It makes me so angry when I see some other things!"
Ning Li began to have a headache.
"I went to an art gallery this morning and bumped into Second Brother. We came together after receiving a call from Senior Brother." Lu Huaiyu said, "Elder Mei, we have been missing you ever since you fell ill, especially my grandfather. He would be very happy if he knew that you are in good health now."
Mei Yanqing snorted coldly.
What was there to be concerned about in the Lu family!
Moreover, if Lu Qishan was really that free, he should have taken care of his grandson more!
How old was Ah Li? Lu Huiayu and this kid...
Ning Li supported him and was about to help him back to his room.
"It's windy outside, let me accompany you back first."
Mei Yanqing was very insistent.
"No, I want to be discharged today!"
Ning Li looked at him quietly.
Mei Yanqing's imposing manner was suddenly reduced by half.
Ning Li said, "I'll discuss it with your doctor later. If there's really no problem, then it won't be too late to be discharged."
Mei Yanqing did not move.
Ning Li's tone was calm. "Master."
Mei Yanqing's lips twitched. "... Got it."
Ning Li nodded in satisfaction.
After returning to the ward, Ning Li went to look for the doctor. Only Mei Yanqing, Yu Pingchuan, and Lu Huaihe were left in the room.
Mei Yanqing and Yu Pingchuan merely looked at Lu Huaiyu.
The entire room was silent.
Lu Huaiyu did not seem to notice the subtle atmosphere. "Elder Mei, how have you been resting recently? Have you been sleeping well?"
Mei Yanqing sneered.
"I was fine before, but not today."
Lu Huaiyu was silent for a moment. He raised his eyes slightly and smiled gently.
"You must have been bored out of your mind while you've been in the hospital. It just so happens that my grandpa misses you very much. Why don't I call him now and ask him to come over to play chess with you?"
Chapter 653 Talent in Physics and Art
Mei Yan chuckled.
"There's no need to go through so much trouble. When I get out of the hospital, I'll have plenty of time to spar with him."
Lu Huaiyu paused for a moment, his smile unchanged.
"Grandfather has always said that playing chess with you is what he enjoys doing the most. I think he would be very happy if he heard what your plan was."
Just then, Ning Li walked in.
Her gaze swept over the few of them.
"Master, Second Brother, what are you talking about?"
Lu Huaiyu smiled. "I was talking about chess with Elder Mei."
Ning Li understood and did not ask any more questions. She then said to Mei Yanqing, "Master, the Doctor said that it'd be better for you to remain under observation for a few more days."
The hope that had just appeared on Mei Yanqing's face was instantly extinguished.
"A few more days?"
Ning Li walked over and helped him adjust his pillow.
"Yes, so you need to persevere a little longer. I'll come back to pick you up in a few days."
The tone of her voice brooked no argument.
Mei Yanqing opened his mouth.
"... You really can't persuade them otherwise?"
Ning Li replied with a "hmm".
"You've already endured it for so long. What's the difference if it's for a few more days?"
Yu Pingchuan also echoed.
"That's right, Master. The doctor and Ah Li are also doing this for your health, aren't they?"
When Mei Yanqing heard what Ning Li said, he knew that he would definitely not be able to leave the hospital today.
He sat on the hospital bed without speaking.
Ning Li said, "Would you like me to stay and chat with you?"
Mei Yanqing wanted to say "Yes", but Yu Pingchuan suddenly spoke up.
"Oh right, Ah Li, your class schedule today seems to be quite full, right?"
Mei Yanqing swallowed back his words.
Ning Li smiled.
"These are all professional classes at the Institute of Physics. The teachers are quite lenient towards me, so I just need to take a leave of absence."
"That won't do."
How could Mei Yanqing bear to let her give up her class time to accompany him?
He waved his hand.
"Just go and do what you need to do!" Ning Li was skeptical.
"Didn't you say earlier that you're feeling very bored here?"
Mei Yanqing waved his hand.
"It's fine! Since Ah Li has said so, then I'll just leave in a few days' time! You don't have to worry about Master. Master can persevere for a little while longer!"
Hearing what he said, Ning Li felt much more at ease.
"That's good."
She sat in the ward for a while longer before preparing to leave.
Before she left, she carefully repeated the doctor's advice.
"So, you must take good care of yourself for the next few days."
Mei Yanqing nodded repeatedly. "Alright, I'll listen to Ah Li!"
Lu Huaiyu was standing next to Ning Li.
When Mei Yanqing looked up, their eyes met.
Lu Huaiyu smiled.
"Ah Li, I also believe that Elder Mei will follow the Doctor's advice and take good care of his body for the next few days. Don't worry."
Mei Yanqinq said clearly, "That's right. It's like what Huaiyu just said."
Ning Li's gaze shifted between the two of them. She did not know what they had been talking about earlier, but her master's attitude had changed so quickly...
Lu Huaiyu did not seem to notice anything.
"Then should we go back now?"
Ning Li collected her thoughts. "Okay."
After leaving the First Affiliated Hospital, Lu Huaiyu sent Ning Li back to school. As he watched her figure gradually disappear from his sight, he picked up his phone.
"Hello, Grandpa."
He smiled and said, "I have something to tell
you."
Old Master Lu rarely received a call from his grandson at this time of day, so he was a little curious.
"What is it?"
Lu Huaiyu spoke slowly and methodically.
"Ah Li is Teacher Yu's junior sister. In other words, she is Elder Mei's last disciple."
Old Master Lu was shocked. "What?!"
All he had known was that Ning Li and Yu Pingchuan were close, but he had never thought that they would have such a relationship!
Mei Yanqing-
Lu Huaiyu said gently, "Ah Li has been under Elder Mei's tutelage since three years ago. Elder Mei has more or less watched her grow up. Today, I accompanied Ah Li to visit Elder Mei at the First Affiliated Hospital. Elder Mei treats Ah Li as if she were his junior, and they are very close."
Old Master Lu was immediately energized.
"So, Mei Yanqing is still in the hospital?"
Lu Huaiyu looked out of the window.
"Yes. It's just that Elder Mei feels that it's too boring to stay there..."
Old Master Lu's hurried footsteps could be heard over the phone.
"Chunlan, where's my coat? I'm going to the First Affiliated Hospital!"
Lu Huaiyu paused.
"Grandpa, are you heading to the First Affiliated Hospital right now?"
"That's right!"
Old Master Lu was full of energy.
Mei Yanqing was actually Ning Li's master!
Would that not make him a proper in-law?
If he did not try to pull some strings now, how long would he have to wait?
"Huaiyu, I'm a little busy right now. I'll hang up first!"
With that, Old Master Lu hung up the phone without waiting for Lu Huaiyu's reply. He hurriedly packed his things up and rushed to the First Affiliated Hospital.
Lu Huaiyu took his phone and called Yi Bin again.
"Please send a new chess set to the First Affiliated Hospital for me."
In the afternoon, Ning Li went to class as usual. She found that many extra people had come to attend the class. Many people had also gathered outside the classroom to catch a glimpse of her.
She quickly realized that these people had come from the Xijing Art School.
The incident at a gallery had spread completely in just a few hours.
Ning Li was Tree's Shadow!
At the same time, she was also Mei Yanqing's youngest closed-door disciple! The revelation of this identity had shocked countless people.
Two years ago, Tree's Shadow had begun to rise to fame in the art world and now had countless fans. Each new work that she released would definitely fetch an increasingly higher price.
It was a pity that the outside world did not know much about this person.
Who would have guessed that it was actually Ning Li!
Other people did not mention it, but the West Capital Fine Arts Academy was the first to be unable to sit still.
Many of the students had specially come here, some of them had even asked for an autograph.
By the time Ning Li finally finished dealing with these things, it was already seven o'clock in the evening.
She had a simple meal and went to the laboratory
Just as she walked in, Tang Yi rushed over with a laptop in his arms. He pointed at a painting on the screen and asked excitedly, "Junior sister, they all said that you're Tree's Shadow. This painting was painted by you, wasn't it?"
Ning Li could only nod.
Tang Yi looked at the screen again and could not help but say, "This is too awesome... We're both humans, but why is the gap between us so
big?"
He did not know much about the fashion and entertainment industry, but he happened to be interested in painting and would occasionally go to art exhibitions. Therefore, he had been even more shocked by the fact that Ning Li was Tree's Shadow. What's more, she was the disciple of Mei Yanqing.
Ning Li could not help but laugh. Just as she was about to speak, a familiar sound of footsteps suddenly came from the corridor.
Shen Zhijin had just arrived at the door of the laboratory when he heard Tang Yi's voice.
"How is it possible that there's such a person like Little Junior Sister who is talented both in physics and in art? Little Junior Sister, you're... amazing!"
Chapter 654 Soberness
Shen Zhijin stopped in his tracks.
Almost at the same time, Ning Li turned around and looked at him.
"Teacher Shen."
Shen Zhijin looked up.
Ning Li was standing there with a faint smile on her lips. Her dimples were faintly discernible.
Tang Yi was standing beside her, holding a laptop. Displayed on the screen was an oil painting.
Shen Zhijin thought of what Tang Yi had just said.
"Is this... your painting?" Ning Li nodded slightly Shen Zhijin's gaze landed on the painting.
Tang Yi could not help but say, "Teacher Shen, do you still not know yet? Little Junior Sister is Tree's Shadow! She's even Elder Mei's disciple! Look at Little Junior Sister's painting. Isn't it exceptionally good?"
Shen Zhijin looked at the painting.
ev
Although he had never stepped into this field before, due to certain reasons, he knew quite a bit about it.
He had heard of Tree's Shadow before, not to mention Mei Yanqing. The fact that he was willing to accept her as his last disciple was enough to be seen as proof of Ning Li's talent in this field.
It was no wonder that Tang Yi would say something like that.
It was true. How was it possible that someone who had both a talent in physics and painting could exist?
One was rational and strict, while the other was emotional and romantic.
They were so incompatible with each other.
However, Ning Li did all of these very well.
These two talents were displayed so vividly within her body as if she had been born with this perfect blend.
Seeing that Shen Zhijin had not replied, Tang Yi called out again, "Teacher Shen?"
Shen Zhijin's fingers trembled slightly.
"Yes," he said. "It's beautiful."
He paused for a moment and looked at Ning Li.
"No wonder you went to Xijing Art School to attend the art exhibition that day." He knew that Ning Li was Ning. Art and aesthetics were the same, so it was not unusual for her to go attend an art exhibition.
Besides, she was young and was entitled to have some fun.
He had not expected her to be so knowledgeable.
Ning Li's eyes in a smile.
"I saw a painting that I liked very much that day. It had been worth the trip."
She was talking about "Mountain Tea".
Shen Zhijin pursed his lips slightly. His gaze stopped at the corner of her lips for a moment.
Ning Li saw that he was holding a piece of paper in his hand and asked, "Teacher Shen, is there something you would like me to do?"
Shen Zhijin collected his thoughts and handed over the piece of paper in his hand.
"Hua University has invited us to participate in a physics academic exchange meeting. There are a total of three professors and four student representatives from the Institute of Physics. You are one of them. This is your invitation letter."
Ning Li took it.
It was obvious that this spot was very precious.
Aside from the professors, there were so many students at the Institute of Physics. To only choose four meant that the chances were extremely small.
However, Ning Li was special.
She had published an article in "Universe". It had been more than enough for her to get this invitation.
"Thank you, Teacher Shen," said Ning Li as she carefully looked at the invitation. She was then momentarily stunned.
"It's tomorrow?"
"Yes. It will be two days long. Everyone will follow the same schedule. The flight will be tomorrow morning, and we'll be back in the afternoon the day after tomorrow," Shen Zhijin said, "Do you have any problems on your end?"
Ning Li shook her head.
"No."
This was a rare opportunity, so she had to go.
Shen Zhijin replied.
"Then we'll gather at the Institute at eight o'clock tomorrow morning and go to the airport together."
"Thank you, Teacher Shen. I understand."
Shen Zhijin turned around and left after having informed her of this matter.
Tang Yi poked his head forward.
"Wow, it's an invitation letter from Hua University!"
Both of these universities were the top institutions of higher learning in the country. There had been a fierce rivalry between them for many years, both openly and secretly.
Tang Yi clenched his fist as his temper suddenly surged.
"Junior Sister, when we get there, don't hold back. Just crush them mercilessly! Let them experience the boldness of Xijing University!"
Ning Li laughed.
"Senior Brother, do you have a grudge against Hua University?"
Tang Yi gritted his teeth.
"In the past, during the National University Student Debate competition, the school debate team that I led had been stopped at the semi-finals by them!"
This matter had already passed several years ago. Every time Tang Yi mentioned it, he was still filled with resentment.
"So, Junior Sister, you must remember to avenge Senior Brother!"
Tang Yi's expression was solemn. Ning Li blinked.
"Alright, I'll try my best."
Shen Zhijin walked out of the laboratory. Behind him, Ning Li and Tang Yi's voices gradually faded away.
He suddenly stopped.
As if he was unable to control himself, he turned his head to take a look.
The bright lights of the laboratory shone down, clearly reflecting Ning Li's face. She was leaning to the side as she talked to Tang Yi. Her peach blossom eyes curved, and the corners of her lips curved into a beautiful and familiar arc.
For a moment, Shen Zhijin fell into a trance.
What if-
Suddenly, Ning Li seemed to sense his gaze and turned around to look at him.
There was a smile on her young and clear face that had yet to fade away. "Teacher Shen, what's wrong?"
She asked casually. Her voice was clear and pleasant to the ear, and her eyes were clear and clean, containing a feeling of curiosity in them.
Shen Zhijin felt as if he had just woken up from a dream, and his fingertips were ice-cold.
He looked away.
"It's nothing."
Then, he turned around and left.
This time, he did not look back.
Ning Li looked at his back, a little puzzled. The gaze that Shen Zhijin had looked at her with just now... had been very complicated.
It was difficult to describe it with words, because it seemed to contain too many thoughts and emotions. However, he hid them very well.
For some reason, when he had turned around and left, she had actually felt a trace of embarrassment from him.
"Junior Sister."
Tang Yi called out to her. "Please help me check this value. Is there any problem?"
Ning Li put away her thoughts and looked to where Tang Yi's finger was pointing.
Shen Zhijin left the laboratory, walked through the corridor, and went downstairs.
Along the way, he met a few students who greeted him. As usual, he nodded to them.
When he came to the first floor, he walked out of the door of the Institute's laboratory building.
Just as he pushed the door open, a chilly night wind blew in his face.
He closed his eyes, feeling completely awake.
Chapter 655 Sister Ah Li
The next morning, Ning Li went to the Institute of Physics.
Besides Shen Zhijin, the deputy dean of the Institute of Physics, Tang Yu, and the Head of the department, Jian Shishi, were also present.
Among the four students, there were two doctorates and one graduate student. Ning Li was the only undergraduate student. The group took the school bus to the Capital Airport.
The Capital was less than an hour's flight away from Haicheng. Two teachers from Hua University were responsible for picking them up. First, they took them to a hotel that was next to Hua University.
The three teachers were given their own rooms, while the students had shared rooms.
However, since Ning Li was the only girl among the four students, she was also given her own room.
At noon, they had a meal before taking a rest at the hotel. At three o'clock in the afternoon, they officially headed to Hua University.
Hua University was as famous as Xijing University. It was also a famous university with a hundred-year history.
Under the guidance of the teacher from Hua University, Ning Li and the others entered the Hua University campus through the main east
gate.
"Junior, have you been to Hua University before?"
A senior who was walking with them asked curiously.
Ning Li shook her head. "No."
The architectural style of the entire campus of Hua University was very different from that of Xijing University. Here, one could clearly feel a very different cultural atmosphere.
One of the teachers who was walking in front suddenly turned around and said with a smile, "Then this time, you should take a good look around."
He had addressed this to Ning Li.
The corners of Ning Li's lips curved.
"Teacher Wu is right."
The other people who were walking with them looked over.
Tang Yu asked, "Wu Xi, do you and Ning Li... know each other?"
Wu Xi was from Hua University. Why did she seem to be quite familiar with him when she had never been here before?
Wu Xi smiled. "Back in the National Physics Competition, I was Hua University's student recruitment representative."
Tang Yu was momentarily stunned.
"Oh, that's right. At that time, Ning Li took first place in the National Physics Competition. I seem to remember that she got full marks?"
Only then did everyone come to a realization.
According to tradition, students who obtained outstanding results in the National Physics Competition Finals could sign a contract with a top-tier University.
Ning Li had achieved first place, so she had obviously been the target of the rivalry between Xijing University and Hua University.
Wu Xi recalled the situation at that time and could not help but laugh.
"Exactly. At that time, Zhu Nan and I had fought over her, but in the end, she didn't choose anyone! Haha!"
No one had expected Ning Li to actually voluntarily give up the guaranteed acceptance.
Wu Xi clicked his tongue.
"We have to accept that she had given up the offer. Anyway, her grades were good, so it didn't make any difference whether she took the offer or not. As expected, she became the top scorer in M province in science. I had thought that there would be a chance for us this time, but who knew that she would still choose your school in the end?"
At this point, he was still a little jealous.
"Ning Li, if you had visited Hua University before, do you think you might have wanted to choose this place instead?"
Xijing University had really picked up a great deal!
Tang Yu did not like to hear this.
He raised his chin.
"Sigh, that's not what I said. Ning Li applied to the astronomy department where Zhijin is. If she didn't apply to our university, where else would she apply to?"
Was there a more convincing reason than this?
Hearing this, Wu Xi was at a loss for words. He could not think of anything else to refute.
After all, in the field of astrophysics research, Shen Zhijin was indeed at the top.
Hearing this, Shen Zhijin's eyes seemed to light up with a faint smile.
"By the way, I heard that Ning Li is now working on a project with Professor Shen?" Wu Xi asked.
Shen Zhijin nodded slightly.
"Yes."
Wu Xi sighed.
If it had been anything else, he might have been able to fight for it.
However, Ning Li wanted to learn astronomy. Thus, Xijing University, Shen Zhijin, really had been her best choice.
Ning Li walked behind them. As she listened to their conversation, s the surrounding scenery.
Just then, they reached an intersection. On the left side of the road, a group of children who looked like primary school students came down the road.
All the boys were wearing suits and bow ties while the girls were wearing knee-length skirts and small leather boots.
There were about twenty of them. They looked to be around eleven or twelve years old, and more than half of them looked like foreigners.
They were exquisite, beautiful, and elegant.
There were around four or five adults with them. They were led by a woman in her thirties, holding a small red flag in her hand. She seemed to be the teacher in charge.
As she walked, she introduced the history of the university to the students in English.
Ning Li looked over there.
With just a glance, she could tell that these children had to be from an aristocratic school and came from wealthy backgrounds.
They must have come here on a school trip.
It was probably not a common scene on the campus of the university. Many people around them looked over there, and from time to time, they could hear some comments that expressed their curiosity and surprise. "These children are all so beautiful! Sigh, there's even a pair of twins!"
"I think they're from Bai City? I heard someone speak German when they were talking to their teacher."
"It's obvious that these children have been raised under an elite education... They're really different..."
Ning Li withdrew her gaze.
However, at that moment, a childish boy's voice sounded.
"Sister Ah Li?"
Ning Li was stunned.
This voice... was it meant for her?
She looked over hesitantly and saw a boy in the queue looking over.
He looked to be about 11 or 12 years old. His tailored suit made him look tall and straight, clean and handsome.
When he saw Ning Li turn around, his eyes lit up and his face revealed a look of pleasant surprise.
"Sister Ah Li!"
Ning Li was a little lost.
She did not know this child, but why did he seem to know her?
Just then, another boy standing next to the boy also looked up.
Two identical little faces- twins.
When he saw Ning Li's face clearly, his eyes widened slightly and he asked his brother next to him, "Is it really Sister Ah Li?" "Of course it's true. She looks the same as in the photo!" Gu Siqi nodded affirmatively.
Gu Sicheng felt that what he said made sense, but...
"But isn't Sister Ah Li in the Capital?"
Gu Siqi frowned. He had almost forgotten about this.
Just in case, it was better to go and confirm it.
"Then I'll go and ask."
As he spoke, he took a few steps forward and came to the side of the teacher in charge who was holding the little red flag.
Gu Sicheng also hurriedly followed.
we
Ning Li was still wondering who these two kids were when she saw them whispering something to the teacher and even pointing at her.
The teacher in charge looked over and nodded with a smile.
are
Then, the two little boys walked directly toward her. "Sister, are you Ning Li?" Gu Siqi asked, becoming more certain as he approached her. Ning Li looked at the two children in front of her and nodded. "I'm Ning Li. And you are-" "Hello, Sister Ah Li!" Hearing her say this, Gu Siqi felt relieved. A smile appeared on his face. "Hello, Sister Ah Li. I'm Gu Siqi." Gu Sicheng also obediently called out. "I'm Gu Sicheng."
Hearing these names, a guess instantly flashed through Ning Li's mind.
"Is your father... the Second Master Gu?"
The two little boys nodded at the same time.
"Yes!"
Chapter 656 Greetings to Fourth Uncle
Ning Li had heard someone mention before that the second master of the Gu family had a pair of twin sons. It must be these two who were in front of her.
She had never seen these two children before, but they had actually recognized her.
"How did you recognize me?" Ning Li asked.
Ire
Gu Siqi smiled until his eyes curved. "Sister Ah Li looks the same as in the photo!"
"Photo?"
Ning Li was surprised.
How could they have seen her photo-
Gu Sicheng nodded.
"Yes! Dad-"
Gu Siqi pulled him back and continued. "Dad said that Grandma has a few photos of Sister Ah Li!" Gu Sicheng coughed.
"Yes, yes!"
Old Madam Gu?
Ning Li's heart skipped a beat.
Gu Siqi continued.
"I think Brother Siyang sent it to Grandma."
Ning Li understood.
It had to be the photo that she had taken with the three of them the last time she had gone to Gu Siyang's family home for dinner.
"I see..."
Gu Sicheng asked curiously.
"Sister Ah Li, don't you go to school in the Capital? Why did you come to Haicheng?"
Ning Li explained with a smile.
"I came here for a meeting. I'll go back in two days."
The two boys nodded in unison to show their understanding
"Our school organized a study trip. We'll return to Hong Kong City when it's over."
A shout came from behind. "Ning Li?"
Ning Li turned around.
A few of her fellow seniors had walked for some distance before realizing that Ning Li was not following them. They turned around and called out to her.
"It's time for us to go!"
"I'll be right there."
Ning Li replied before turning back to the two boys in front of her again.
"It was nice to meet you guys today, but I need to go. You guys should go back too. Have fun."
Gu Siqi and Gu Sicheng were a little reluctant to leave.
Just then, Shen Zhijin, who was walking in front, also heard something and turned around.
He saw Gu Siqi and Gu Sicheng.
Gu Sicheng unintentionally raised his head and saw him too. He could not help but say, "Eh, isn't that Fourth Aunt-"
Then, something came to his mind and he swallowed the rest of his words.
Gu Siqi also looked over but did not say anything At that moment, their teacher seemed to be calling them back.
Ning Li bent down slightly.
"Alright, you guys should go back too. We'll see each other again another time."
Gu Siqi and Gu Siyang said in unison, "Goodbye, Sister Ah Li."
Ning Li nodded.
The two boys turned around and left.
However, Gu Sicheng ran back after only taking just a few steps.
"Sister Ah Li."
He looked at Ning Li hesitantly. He then turned back to look at Shen Zhijin before pulling Ning Li's sleeve gently and saying in a low voice, "Please help me and my brother say hello to Fourth Uncle."
Ning Li was stunned.
Gu Sicheng did not wait for her to answer. After saying that, he went back.
He ran to Gu Siqi's side. The two little heads leaned together and said something. Gu Siqi nodded.
They returned to the team and soon turned down another path.
Ning Li pursed her lips and turned around to follow.
The teachers had also noticed the situation and began to joke with each other.
"Ning Li, do you know those two children?"
Ning Li's gaze could not help but sweep across Shen Zhijin's face.
His expression was as calm as ever.
She nodded.
"They are... a friend's children."
Everyone understood, but they did not pay too much attention and continued to move forward.
Ning Li looked at Shen Zhijin's back and softly sighed in her heart.
That afternoon's meeting was held at the Institute of Physics at Hua University. The teachers and students who were participating in the meeting were all outstanding representatives of the two universities' academies.
Other than Shen Zhijin, the most eye-catching person from Xijing University was Ning Li.
After the meeting, it was already past six o'clock in the evening.
During the two-day meeting, everyone's food and accommodation had been arranged uniformly.
Ning Li and the others followed Shen Zhijin to the staff canteen of Hua University.
A few teachers recognized Shen Zhijin and came over to greet him.
After eating, Tang Yu allowed Ning Li and the others to have some free time.
"It's rare for you to come to Hua University. You may go around to explore, but don't be too late. Please pay attention to your safety."
Ning Li thought for a moment before going to buy a bottle of yogurt. She quietly drank it in a corner of the canteen, as she occasionally swiped her phone.
After a while, someone walked over.
"Why didn't you go back to the hotel?"
Ning Li looked up and saw Shen Zhijin standing in front of her.
She looked behind him, but Tang Yu and the others were not there. Shen Zhijin seemed to have guessed her question, and he said lightly, "They have already gone downstairs."
Ning Li stood up.
"Teacher Shen."
Her gaze swept across Shen Zhijin's face.
"Gu Siqi and Gu Sicheng asked me to say hello to you."
That night, Gu Siqi and his brother followed the teacher back to the hotel.
wn
The two of them were staying in the same room, but they did not go back to their own room. Instead, they knocked on the door next door.
"Dad! Mom! We're back!"
The school had organized the school trip for the students. Their parents were not required to accompany them. However, Gu Tingchuan had not seen them in a long time, so he had come with Yun Jingrou to accompany them. Yun Jingrou was not in the room, but Gu Tingchuan was on the phone.
"Not a single painting? How can there not be a single one?!"
"There were so many paintings at the auction before, yet you guys couldn't buy a single one?"
"Lu Huaiyu? He bought the "Seventeenth Night" painting, right? What about the others?" "Then go talk to Lu Huaiyu's assistant! Double! No, Triple!"
"What do you mean? Of course I know that kid from the Lu family doesn't lack money! What? You want me to talk to him? If I could talk to him personally, why would I need you guys?!" "Go and look again! If you manage to find one, just buy it, no matter what!"
Gu Tingchuan hung up the phone angrily.
He really did not know how these people did things!
"Dad?"
Gu Siqi had seen that he had finished his call, so he spoke up.
Gu Tingchuan turned around, and the expression on his face eased up a little.
"You're back? How was your day at Hua University today?"
"It was great!" Gu Siqi said, "I even bumped into Sister Ah Li!"
Gu Tingchuan was stunned.
"Who?"
Gu Sicheng also smiled, and his eyes curved.
"Sister Ah Li! It's the Sister Ah Li from the photos that you've saved on your phone!"
Gu Tingchuan's face instantly darkened.
These two brats had taken the opportunity to look at his phone when he had not been paying attention and had seen the two photos. Why were they still thinking about it now?!
"This is the only thing you remember clearly!"
He held himself back but asked, "Why was she at Hua University?"
"It seems she was there for a meeting. There were quite a few teachers with her, and a few of them were probably Sister Ah Li's classmates."
Gu Siqi said, "She said that she would return to the Capital in two days."
Gu Tingchuan acknowledged him with a "hmm".
The room then quieted down.
The sons stared at the father with wide eyes.
Gu Tingchuan's brows slowly furrowed.
"And then?" Gu Siqi shrugged. "And then... that's it."
What else could there have been?
Gu Sicheng's mouth moved, but he did not mention that he had met his fourth uncle. Gu Tingchuan frowned even more. "You didn't invite her over for dinner?"
Chapter 657 Came Out
Gu Siqi, "..."
Gu Sicheng asked, "Dad, did you want to invite Sister Ah Li over for dinner?"
Gu Tingchuan raised his voice. "When did I say that?"
Gu Sicheng nodded seriously. "Just... just now."
"Well, you heard wrong!"
"Dad, I heard it too. That's what you said," Gu Siqi added.
Gu Tingchuan choked. Gu Siqi spread his hands. "Dad, you should have mentioned this earlier. Then we could have invited her when we met Sister Ah Li today."
If he had not said it, how could they have thought of it?
After all, the two of them were here on a school trip, while Ning Li had come here to attend a meeting. It had just been a coincidence that they had met.
Soon, they would return to where they had come from. Who would have thought of having a meal together?
Gu Sicheng considered it seriously. "But this was the first time that we ever met Sister Ah Li. If we were the ones to invite her, would she agree?"
"This..." Gu Siqi looked at his father with uncertainty. "It's hard to say. Would she not like Dad?"
Gu Tingchuan was furious. "Gu Siqi, what are you talking about?!" Gu Siqi rested his chin on his hand. "After all, Sister Ah Li has already had dinner with Eldest Uncle's family and Third Uncle. If she skips over you, then this..." "That's your Eldest Uncle and Third Uncle..."
Gu Tingchuan did not want to talk about this at
all!
Those two people were extremely cunning, one more than the other. He was different from them!
Gu Sicheng sighed.
"Sigh, but isn't it too late to talk about this now?"
"What's too late?"
Yun Jingrou had just returned from the hotel gym when she heard the father talking about something with his sons. So she had casually asked this question.
The two brothers turned around at the same time.
"Mom!"
Yun Jingrou was already over forty this year, but because she exercised all year round, she took good care of herself. She looked very young, and her short hairstyle gave a bold and beautiful appearance.
Gu Sicheng summarized what had happened earlier.
"My brother and I bumped into Sister Ah Li at Hua University today. Father complained that we didn't invite her over for dinner."
Gu Tingchuan, "..."
Yun Jingrou was a little surprised.
"She came to Hua University?"
"Yes, she said that she was here for a meeting. Unfortunately, she will be leaving in two days, so we said it was too late."
"I see."
Yun Jingrou looked at Gu Tingchuan.
"Then why don't you just call her directly?"
Gu Tingchuan, "... I'm not calling her! Why should I call her for no reason?" "I think you're the one who's being ridiculous. Aren't you the one who wants to invite her over for dinner?"
Yun Jingrou was completely speechless,
"If you don't want to call her, I'll call her!"
As she spoke, she moved to take her phone out.
Gu Tingchuan was slack-jawed for a long while.
"Well, you're the one who's insisting on calling her! I don't care!"
Yun Jingrou could not be bothered with him. She walked to the side to make the call and waved at the two brothers.
Gu Siqi and Gu Sicheng followed her and squeezed in close on either side of her. Yun Jingrou looked at her phone and suddenly remembered that she did not have Ning Li's phone number.
She called out, "Give me her phone number."
Gu Tingchuan grunted before smoothly spitting out a series of numbers.
Yun Jingrou dialed.
Du-
Gu Sicheng asked in a low voice, "Mom, Dad even knows Sister Ah Li's phone number by heart. Why didn't he just call her himself?"
Yun Jingrou looked over at her husband and pursed her lips.
"Ignore him, he's being pretentious!"
Gu Sicheng replied with an "OH".
Gu Siqi nodded in agreement.
The call was quickly picked up. "Miss Ning?"
Upon hearing this, Ning Li briefly took her phone away and looked at it strangely.
"You are..."
Yun Jingrou was a straightforward person.
"Hello, I'm Yun Jingrou. I'm also Siqi and Sicheng's mother."
Ning Li was even more surprised.
The Gu family's second master's wife?
"Hello, you-"
"Sister Ah Li!"
Before Ning Li could finish her sentence, the brothers' voices were heard.
Ning Li's lips curved into a smile.
"It's like this. Siqi and Sicheng saw the video of you riding a horse and admired you greatly. When they saw you today, they wanted to invite you over for dinner..."
Gu Tingchuan stayed in his seat without moving, but his attention was already focused on the other side of the room.
Yun Jingrou and the two brothers were huddled together as they talked on the phone for quite a while. The conversation seemed to be very lively.
Gu Tingchuan was a little tempted.
Since they were a family of four and three of them were already making a phone call together, wouldn't it be inappropriate for him not to go over and say a few words?
He pretended to nonchalantly get up.
However, just as he took half a step forward, he heard Yun Jingrou say with a smile, "Okay, then it's a deal. Goodbye, Ah Li."
The two brothers shouted together, "Goodbye, Sister Ah Li!"
Yun Jingrou cleanly ended the phone call.
Gu Tingchuan sat back down.
Yun Jingrou looked over. "Alright, I've already arranged for her to go to Xi Rong for dinner tomorrow night." Gu Tingchuan was stunned. "Xi Rong?"
The Gu family had many properties in Haicheng. He had not expected Yun Jingrou to choose that place. "Yes. It looks like she has a very full schedule these two days. I guess she doesn't have much time to have fun. Xi Rong is near the river, so I can show her the night view."
Haicheng's economy was prosperous. The Hengjiang River ran through the city center and the night view was superb. Gu Tingchuan thought about it and felt that this was a pretty good decision. "Okay."
In the hotel, Ning Li hung up the call and saved Yun Jingrou's number.
She had never met the wife of the second master of the Gu family before, but from this phone call, it was not hard to tell that she had a straightforward and free personality.
She thought of the second master of the Gu family's temper and could not help but laugh.
She did not know who Gu Siqi and Gu Sicheng resembled more in terms of their personalities.
She held her phone and continued to look at her computer, as she made preparations to speak at the meeting tomorrow.
She only turned off her computer after she had tidied everything up.
She casually picked up her phone and scrolled through Weibo, only to see a piece of gossip. [ Lord Fifth of Entertainment: A mistress is beaten up in the middle of the street! The mistress was stripped naked on the spot. How wonderful! Gossip. JPG! ]
Chapter 658 Torture
A short video was attached to the Weibo post which started to play automatically.
The location seemed to be a shopping mall. A young girl had been pressed to the ground by several people, her clothes not covering her body.
She struggled desperately and cried, but she was no match for these people.
The person standing in front of her repeatedly slapped her face, and soon her hair was disheveled and she was in a sorry state.
A well-dressed middle-aged woman wearing sunglasses stood to the side with her arms crossed as she coldly watched.
There were many people watching at the side. Many of them were taking pictures with their cell phones, looking excited and ready to gossip.
From time to time, whispers could be heard.
"Aiyo! Some young ladies nowadays really don't care about their dignity at all! They don't care about being a mistress at such a young age even though it will destroy someone's family?"
"You look like an attractive girl. Why aren't you doing something decent?"
"Bah! Serves you right!"
The girl obviously knew that many people around were filming her. She was desperately trying to put on her clothes while keeping her head lowered to try and cover her face.
However, the other party was here to teach her a lesson today, so why would she give her this opportunity?
The woman standing next to her sneered.
"What are you trying to hide? When you climbed into someone else's husband's bed, your face was smiling so smugly. Why don't you let everyone enjoy it seeing it as well?"
As soon as she finished speaking, someone grabbed the girl's hair and yanked it back!
She cried out in pain as she was forced to raise her head. Her face, which was already red and swollen, was exposed in front of everyone's eyes.
The camera was very clear.
Ye Ci.
The video stopped abruptly at this point.
The final freeze-frame was of her half-naked body lying on the ground, with tears all over her face.
Even though the image in the video had been pixelated, it was not difficult to see that she had been stripped almost completely naked. The comments section was in an uproar.
( Front row waiting for gossip. Junior biss! ]
[ How exciting! She was practically stripped naked in public. This mistress won't have the face to live anymore, right? ]
[ When the husband cheats, do the women only know how to find trouble with women? Seeing how fierce she is, I can't blame her husband for cheating. Besides, it's not appropriate to do this in front of so many people, right? ]
[ The person above is truly laughing stock material. How do you know that she didn't take care of her husband? Could it be that you were under the bed? I hope that when your husband cheats, you can also calmly call the mistress your sister. ]
[ I'm dying of laughter. Do you know why there are so many people watching around, yet not even one of them came forward to help? This shopping mall is owned by this person. Surely anyone knows that if a mistress is coming to their territory to act atrociously, they would not be able to bear it, right? ]
[ That's right. I advise the person with a Holy Mother's heart to stay away from a fire in the future. Don't accidentally burn a few relics. ]
[ Crooked message: Has anyone here made a code? A good person has a peaceful life. ]
Such news was common, but it always attracted a lot of attention and stirred up public opinion.
Because the scene of the naked woman was so exciting, the popularity of the news increased rapidly.
The comments section was filled with fierce curses, and some people had even started to pick up on Ye Ci's identity. [ Speaking of which, doesn't this mistress's face seem a little familiar? ]
[ Ye Ci is the daughter of the developer of Qinghe Bridge. This person is really amazing. I remember that she was also the one who cheated in the National Physics Competition, right? This character, tsk tsk, I really don't dare to compliment her. ]
[ There is something even more interesting. Many people have probably forgotten that she once caused her father's mistress to have a miscarriage. In the blink of an eye, she has now become someone else's mistress. What is this? Tit for tat? ]
Ning Li casually looked for a while and raised her eyebrows slightly.
Tao Siwen's wife was also from a prestigious family. Her family was even slightly more prestigious than the Tao family, and her personality was especially strong.
Therefore, this marriage consisted of a strong woman and a weaker man.
Tao Siwen secretly had affairs with both men and women. He did a lot of dirty things, but he was usually very careful and never dared to let his wife know.
After this incident, Tao Siwen was bound to be skinned alive.
As for Ye Ci, that was even more so.
Today's video was the best proof.
Ye Ci had no background and could only be dealt with by others.
She had wanted to seize the opportunity to climb up and try to turn her life around, but she had kicked an iron plate[1] and ended up like this.
Ning Li put down her phone and went to take a shower.
Half an hour later, she changed into her pajamas and dried her hair. When she clicked on Weibo again, she saw that this matter had already become a hot topic.
# The Feiyang Mall in the Capital mistress was stripped in public #
# Ye Ci the mistress #
Usually, this kind of negative news, especially with the addition of a video that was quite special, would logically be removed very quickly.
However, a lot of time had already passed. Not only was it not removed, but the number of searches and discussions was also increasing rapidly.
When she clicked on the topic square, almost all of them were scolding Ye Ci.
Ning Li scrolled down and saw that someone had edited out Tao Siwen's identity. However, it had been quickly done by the public relations.
In the entire incident, only Ye Ci had been left as a target.
Other than those insults, many photos and videos of Ye Ci were spreading. Although the Weibo side had been blocking it, there were too many onlookers at the scene at that time. There was simply no way to stop them.
Ye Ci, this name, this face, became completely famous that night.
The Capital
In a dark rented house, Ye Ci sat on the bed and looked at the insults and humiliations on her phone, as well as the countless unsightly photos and videos. Her body trembled.
She then screamed and tossed her phone away!
Bang!
[1] A Chinese expression literally meaning "kick the iron plate" which metaphorically saying one gets jinxed.
Chapter 659 A Strategic Move
On the Internet, Ye Ci's scandal caused a big stir.
However, this did not affect Ning Li.
The next day, she went to Hua University with the teachers and seniors of Xijing University as usual to attend the exchange meeting.
During the afternoon meeting, she made a speech, which was appreciated by several professors from the Institute of Physics at Hua University.
Wu Xi sat next to Shen Zhijin and could not help but sigh.
He turned his head and asked in a low voice, "Professor Shen, I heard that Ning Li has become your assistant for the time being?"
Shen Zhijin nodded.
Wu Xi sighed secretly.
Shen Zhijin had always had high standards. If anyone wanted to be his assistant, they would not be able to do it without having sufficient ability.
On the other hand, Ning Li had only just entered her first year of university this year.
She was extremely talented and had a steady personality. Now that she was personally led by Shen Zhijin, her future was truly limitless.
"It's not easy to meet a student who is so in tune with you!" Wu Xi's heart was still feeling a little sour.
When Shen Zhijin heard this, his gaze swept across Ning Li's face.
She had just finished her speech with a thank you.
Everyone applauded.
Shen Zhijin also applauded.
He tilted his head slightly and smiled in agreement with Wu Xi's words. "Yes, it's indeed a rare stroke of luck."
The meeting ended at six o'clock in the evening. This had also been the last meeting. The group from Xijing University would take the plane back to the Capital at noon tomorrow.
Everyone came out of the meeting room one after another.
Ning Li carried her backpack and followed behind.
"Ning Li?"
Ning Li turned her head and saw that it was a male student from Hua University.
He was tall and upright, and very handsome. He looked like the type that would be very popular on the campus of a university. He looked at her with undisguised admiration in his eyes.
"Ning Li, I gained a lot of knowledge after listening to your speech today. Are you free tonight? Would you allow me to treat you to dinner?"
Not far away, a few students from Hua University began to jeer.
At the same time, the three seniors from Xijing University looked sympathetic.
This one was really tough.
Ning Li looked indifferent.
"I'm sorry, I already have an appointment."
The guy was stunned, but he did not give up.
"What about tomorrow? You guys are leaving at noon, right? Then I can take you in the morning-"
"I don't have time either," Ning Li interrupted him.
"This..."
The guy had not expected Ning Li to reject him so directly.
"Then, then would you add me on WeChat? If there are any academic problems in the future, we can communicate immediately."
As he said this, he took out his phone.
Ning Li frowned slightly.
Just then, a voice was heard.
"Ning Li."
Ning Li turned her head.
Shen Zhijin was standing not far in front of her with a calm expression.
"Please remember to arrange the data requested by the Sanjiang Astronomical Research Institute and send it to them before noon tomorrow."
Ning Li nodded. "Yes, Teacher Shen."
After Shen Zhijin finished speaking, he turned around and left.
Ning Li looked at the boy in front of her.
"You should be able to tell that I really don't have the time. Besides-"
The corners of her lips curved up. "My boyfriend used to work at the headquarters of Fino Laboratory, and my teacher is Shen Zhijin. So, most probably, I won't have any academic questions to discuss with you.
"If you really have questions, you can read more literature and relevant core journals. I think you'll gain more knowledge there."
After saying that, she walked past the boy and continued on straight ahead.
After a few quick steps, she caught up with Shen Zhijin.
"Teacher Shen."
Shen Zhijin turned his head.
Ning Li said, "Teacher Shen, I won't be going to the cafeteria with you, the teachers, and the seniors later. I have... I have a friend who wants to have dinner with me."
Shen Zhijin looked at her calmly.
After a while, he said, "Go ahead. Go early and come back early."
The Gu family had sent a special car to pick her up.
Ning Li walked closer and found that both the young Gu twin brothers were also in the car. "Sister Li!"
Two heads popped out of the car window and looked over.
Ning Li was surprised:
"Why are you guys here too?".
Gu Sicheng said, "We're going back to Hong Kong City tomorrow. We don't know when we'll see Sister Ah Li again, so we came together so that we could spend some time with Sister Ah Li for a while!"
Ning Li could not help but laugh.
She really did not know how the second master of the Gu family had produced such a sweet-talking son. She got into the passenger seat and fastened her seatbelt.
"It should be pretty soon. I'll go to Hong Kong City when I have some time later."
Gu Siqi's eyes lit up.
"Sister Ali, you'll definitely be riding Qingfeng when you go, right? Can you teach me?"
"Sure."
Ning Li agreed without hesitation.
The driver started the car.
The lights lit up.
The car continued to drive along the bank of the Hengjiang River.
On the left was the surging river water, and on the right were all kinds of buildings.
A cruise ship slowly sailed over the river, interweaving with the bright lights on the shore to form a beautiful scenery.
Twenty minutes later, they arrived at Xirong Residence.
This was a villa that stood on the bank of the Hengjiang River.
Every inch of land in Haicheng was precious, and the border of the bank of the Hengjiang River was even more so.
At a glance, the area was filled with top-notch office buildings.
In a place like this, owning a single villa was no longer just measured by money.
The Gu twin brothers got out of the car first and led Ning Li inside. "Dad! Mom! Sister Ah Li is here!"
A neatly dressed short-haired woman walked out. When she saw Ning Li, she laughed heartily.
"Ah Li! Come quickly! We've been waiting for you!"
This had to be Yun Jingrou.
Ning Li walked over.
"Aunt Jing."
Yun Jingrou had a straightforward personality. While they were on the phone the other day, this was what she had asked her to address her
as.
"Come, come!" Yun Jingrou called out as she led her inside.
Ning Li soon saw Gu Tingchuan. Gu Tingchuan coughed. "She's here."
There was a subtle awkwardness in the air.
Yun Jingrou had to silently remind herself three times that this was her husband, so she still had to save him.
She said to Ning Li, "Ah Li, your Second Uncle Gu has been waiting for you."
Gu Tingchuan frowned.
What was the point of telling the children all this?!
Ning Li blinked.
"Second Uncle Gu, I'm sorry to have kept you and Aunt Jing waiting for so long."
Gu Tingchuan turned his head away.
"Ahem! It hasn't been long! Then... Let's Eat!"
Ning Li followed them to the dining room and saw two small cakes on the table.
She was stunned.
Yun Jingrou explained, "The twins and the others have finished their study tour. Every child was given a cake as a souvenir."
Ning Li understood.
They all took their seats one by one.
Gu Tingchuan suddenly said, "Since their study tour has ended, it's time to take a photo as a memento."
As soon as he said that, Gu Siqi and Gu Sicheng immediately moved over.
Gu Siqi waved at Ning Li.
"Sister Ah Li, come quickly!"
Ning Li, "... I don't think it's appropriate, right?"
Gu Sicheng's eyes were curved in a smile. "Sister Ah Li is already here, how can we not take a photo together? Come, come!"
Ning Li hesitated for a moment, but still walked over.
Gu Tingchuan and his wife sat side by side, while the brothers stood behind them.
Ning Li was then pulled to stand between the two brothers.
She looked around and fell into deep thought. All five of them were here. Who would be in charge of taking the photos?
Gu Tingchuan quickly gave an answer.
"Lau Yu, you can take the photos now."
As soon as he finished speaking, Ning Li saw a man carrying a tripod and lighting equipment walk in.
Ning Li, "???"
Chapter 660 Birthday, June 26th
Lao Yu was obviously a professional. He quickly set up the tripod and set up the lens.
Snap...
The light was turned on, and the bright light shone.
Ning Li blinked her eyes.
II
11
Subconsciously, she looked around, but saw that everyone else was behaving normally, as if there was nothing unusual about this.
As if sensing her gaze, Gu Sicheng blinked and asked, "Sister Li, what's wrong?"
Ning Li asked hesitantly, "Is your family... always so... grand when taking photos?"
Gu Siqi adjusted his small black bow tie and said in seriousness, "Not really, Sister Li. It's just that the school trip is over, so it's appropriate to commemorate the occasion with a good photo."
Ning Li was silent for a moment.
These words seemed to make sense, right?
After all, the Gu family was the number one family in Hong Kong City. It would be normal for them to be more particular about everything
Lau Yu adjusted his camera and secretly sighed in his heart.
Tsk, this new one was really different!
He said, "Everyone, look at the camera."
Hearing this, Ning Li did not continue to ask any questions. She looked up. "Everyone, smile." Ning Li's lips curved into a smile. Gu Siqi and Gu Sicheng also straightened up.
Click.
Lau Yu lowered his head to check the photo.
"Eh, this one isn't good. Let's have another one. Second Master, please smile a little."
Gu Tingchuan coughed.
"Got it."
Lau Yu pressed the shutter again.
Click.
He looked at it and was silent for a moment.
"Second Master, you don't have to smile so..."
It was a very creepy sight!
Gu Tingchuan was a little annoyed.
"Then you didn't make it clear just now!"
Old Yu, "..."
'I told you to smile, but I didn't force you to smile like this!
SE
Gu Tingchuan wanted to say something something else, but Yun Jingrou secretly stepped on him. His lips moved, and he snorted in the end.
"Let's take another one."
Gu Sicheng suddenly asked, "Sister Li, did you have fun in Haicheng this time?"
Ning Li nodded.
"Yes."
"Did you have more fun in our house?"
Gu Tingchuan turned his head slightly.
Ning Li could not help but laugh.
"Yes."
When she laughed, her peach blossom eyes were clear and bright, and the dimples on the corners of her lips were faintly discernible.
Gu Tingchuan momentarily went into a daze, and his usually cold and solemn eyes were tinged with a rare gentleness.
Gu Sicheng narrowed his eyes.
"My brother and I feel the same way!"
Lau Yu suddenly said, "Good! Maintain it like this!"
As he spoke, he quickly pressed the shutter.
Click.
After a long time, the photoshoot finally ended
Lau Yu quickly left.
Yun Jingrou held Ning Li's hand and sat down beside her.
"Ah Li, come and eat."
"Thank you, Aunt Jing."
Ning Li had been worried that since she was not very close to Second Master Gu's family, it might be a little awkward for her to come today.
However, such a situation had not happened.
Although Second Master Gu always looked serious when he was not smiling, with Yun Jingrou around, the atmosphere was very lively.
Gu Siqi and Gu Sicheng were the same. They asked her all kinds of questions and told her interesting stories about their school. After the meal, the two brothers even opened their small cakes and shared them to her.
All in all, everyone had eaten happily and contentedly.
Ning Li stayed here until eight o'clock before she took her leave. The family went out to see her off.
"Sister Li, brother and I will miss you."
Gu Sicheng said reluctantly.
Gu Siqi blinked.
"Sister Li, you will miss us too, right?"
Ning Li nodded with a smile:
"Yes. Besides, I will be going to Hong Kong City soon. I'm sure we will see each other again soon."
Hearing her words, the two brothers waved goodbye.
Ning Li looked at Gu Tingchuan and Yun Jingrou. "Then, Second Uncle Gu, Aunt Jing, I bid you goodbye."
With that, she got into the car.
The black car slowly drove away.
At noon the next day, the group from Xijing University boarded a flight back to the Capital.
At two o'clock in the afternoon, the plane arrived at the Capital airport.
Ning Li followed them to the exit and took her phone out to turn it on.
There were four WeChat friend requests on her phone- They were all from Second Master Gu's family of four.
Ning Li clicked yes.
Then, Gu Tingchuan sent her a few photos without saying anything.
These were the photos that had been taken last night.
Ning Li clicked on them. They had indeed been very well taken.
When she slid to the last photo, she was stunned.
It showed her happily talking with Gu Sicheng. On the other side, Gu Siqi was listening attentively with a curious look on his face. Gu Tingchuan and Yun Jingrou had also turned their heads slightly to look at her with smiles on their faces.
Especially Gu Tingchuan. Most of the time, he looked fierce and serious. However, at this moment, he looked at her with a rare gentleness.
She stared at the photo for a long time.
"Ning Li, it's time to get on the bus."
Tang Yu urged her from the front.
Ning Li raised her head and saw that the bus from Xijing University had already arrived.
"It's here."
As she spoke, she put away her phone and followed them. She sat down in the last row by the window.
Meanwhile, Gu Tingchuan's family had returned to Hong Kong City. They took a bus to the Gu family's old residence.
Gu Tingchuan stared at his phone with a serious expression, without moving.
Yun Jingrou finally could not help but say, "You've been staring at your phone for half an hour. Haven't you seen enough?"
Gu Tingchuan frowned.
"These photo..."
"Weren't these photo taken very well?"
Lau Yu had sent the photos to them as quickly as he could and he had looked through all of them earlier. Other than the first two questionable ones, the rest were pretty good.
"I'm not saying that these photo aren't good," Gu Tingchuan said.
He was worried about something else.
Yun Jingrou glanced at him.
"Is it so difficult to send it directly to Mom and Dad?"
Gu Tingchuan had a disapproving look on his face.
"How is that appropriate?"
Yun Jingrou, "..."
Yes, it's not appropriate. Yet, it had been appropriate to call Lao Yu to bring his equipment over.
Gu Siqi suddenly said, "Oh, Sister Ah Li doesn't seem to post often on WeChat moments."
A thought flashed through Gu Tingchuan's mind.
He slowly sat up straight.
"Exactly. Why doesn't she post on WeChat?" Yun Jingrou looked at him with difficulty. "Do you even hear what you're saying?"
Gu Tingchuan turned around and shouted. "Gu Sicheng."
It was quiet and peaceful as the bus drove along the road.
Ning Li was resting with her eyes closed as she leaned against the back of the chair when her phone suddenly rang.
She opened her eyes and realized it was a voice call from Gu Sicheng. At this time...
Ning Li picked up the call and lowered her voice. "Sicheng?"
"Sister Li."
Gu Sicheng sounded a little aggrieved, "Do you not want to see my brother and me? You didn't even post pictures of us in your WeChat moments."
Ning Li, "..."
Two minutes later, Ning Li posted an update.
Caption: A trip to Haicheng. Caption: A group photo of five people.
A senior sitting in front of her happened to turn around and look at her.
"Ning Li, it's time for us to get off the bus."
Ning Li nodded. "Okay."
That senior accidentally saw her picture and casually asked,
"Eh, Ning Li, was it your birthday yesterday?"
Ning Li was stunned. She looked down and saw that there was indeed a small cake in the picture.
She smiled.
"No. This cake belongs to someone else."
"Oh, oh. In that case, when is your birthday
again?"
At that moment, the bus had already entered the gates of Xijing University and slowly stopped. Ning Li picked up her backpack and stood up. She casually replied, "June 26th." Shen Zhijin's fingers trembled slightly as he sat in front, and he suddenly opened his eyes.