Chapter 781: Incredible Logic (3)
The moment Jiang Yingqiu heard that, she also grew serious. "What do you mean?"
Mo Beihan said earnestly, "The Qiao family is very famous. In the past, their status in the capital was very high. Even the rich families that somehow managed to survive in China suffered heavy losses. But the Qiao family is different. They left, and they've made good progress while they were overseas. They have always moved in the best social circles.
"Now that the restrictions in China have been lifted, the status of rich families like the Qiaos will only grow. After Uncle Gu and Aunt Qiao formally marry, Yao Yao will be the legitimate granddaughter of the Qiao family. Then not only will she be the Gu family's granddaughter, but she will also have the support of the Qiao family. That way, she won't suffer in the Mo family after she marries me.
"When our children are born, they won't be bullied because Yao Yao's status will protect them. Be it Mu Mu or my future children, when I'm working away from home, Yao Yao and the children definitely won't be bullied."
Gu Qingyao's status was just too high. Even after she joined the Mo family, Jiang Hongying would not be able to do anything to her.
Jiang Yingqiu completely agreed with this explanation.
She immediately said, "You're right. You're a man, and when you're working away from home, an unprotected woman and her children will certainly suffer. Old Madam Mo is growing older, and she cannot do all that she would like. With Yao Yao around, the children won't be bullied in the future.
"You've waited for so many years, another year or two doesn't matter. You can wait until Yao Yao's parents are married before you get married."
Jiang Yingqiu's greatest hope was that her children would have a good life. The Mo family's circumstances were rather complicated. After Gu Qingyao got married, besides Mo Beihan, she would have to deal with the entire large family.
She knew very well that Mo Chengrui and the other grandchildren's fate were tied to that of Mo Beihan. Gu Qingyao's marriage to Mo Beihan was the best way of supporting him. If his wife and children were doing well, as a man, Mo Beihan would not have to worry about them.
Mo Beihan immediately sighed with relief when he saw that his mother sincerely agreed to delay their wedding. His mouth twitched a little, but Jiang Yingqiu did not see it.
He must admit that Yao Yao was the apple of his eye. She wanted her parents to be there at her wedding, so he had agreed. But his mother yearned for them to get married sooner, so after some thought, he felt that this was the only argument that would win his mother over.
When he saw that his mother was satisfied, Mo Beihan leaned closer and said, "Mother, Yao Yao and I will probably get married in the second half of the year. You can have a grandson by next year!"
Jiang Yingqiu was delighted. She slapped Mo Beihan's shoulder. "Oh well, I have so many grandsons, I am not short of grandsons at all. I would rather you give me a granddaughter."
By the time they finished their conversation, Jiang Yingqiu had completely calmed down, and she bade Mo Beihan goodbye with a smile.
"All right, goodbye! Don't keep Yao Yao waiting. We're all in the capital, just come and visit me when you have time. Remember to prepare the wedding presents. The Mo family probably won't neglect this matter, and I'll also prepare some things for you. I'll give it to you when the time comes."
"All right!"
Jiang Yingqiu was delighted. She pushed Mo Beihan towards Gu Qingyao and said, "Hurry up and go home! Remember to take good care of Yao Yao!"
When she finished speaking, she walked over to Gu Qingyao and took her hand. She said smilingly, "Yao Yao! Our Beihan is a good man. You grew up together. When you marry him in the future, he will take good care of you. If he dares to bully you, I won't let him off."
Gu Qingyao: "..."
What was going on?
Why was she suddenly so intense?
Chapter 782: Incredible Logic (4)
Gu Qingyao did not understand, but Jiang Yingqiu's expression made her shudder, so she just smiled and nodded.
Mo Beihan sized up the situation and hurriedly dragged Gu Qingyao away.
When they got into the car, Gu Qingyao was still puzzled. "What's the matter with Auntie? Why is she acting so strangely?"
"Hem hem..." Mo Beihan rubbed his nose. "Nothing, probably just happy. My mother has been waiting for a daughter-in-law for so many years, she's just happy that you've called her 'Mother'!"
"Is that so?" Gu Qingyao felt that something was amiss.
"Yes, yes, that must be the explanation!"
Mo Beihan did not dare to allow her to pursue the subject any longer, so he hurriedly changed the topic. He leaned towards Gu Qingyao and hugged her. Then he whispered in her ear, "Yao Yao, you haven't kept me company for so long. I missed you!"
Gu Qingyao blushed and immediately pushed the fellow away. She immediately forgot about Jiang Yingqiu's reaction.
Lin Dongxu was green with envy to see that his boss had such a pretty wife to keep him company!
He wondered when he could have such a good wife himself.
The car brought them to Jiang Yiru's house. The two older Jiangs were there with Qin Si. Qin Li had gone out.
When Old Master Qin opened the door and saw Gu Qingyao and the others, he immediately beamed. "You're here. Hurry up and come in!"
Lin Dongxu had always worked for Mo Beihan. It was so cold today that they could not leave him out there by himself. Anyway, this was the Jiang family. During the three years that Gu Qingyao and Mo Beihan had been away, he had often brought presents for the Jiangs.
The moment they entered, Qin Si came over to welcome them. "Yao Yao!"
They were good friends, but Gu Qingyao had been very busy recently, so they had not seen each other for a long time.
Lin Dongxu, who was following behind, was stunned when he saw Qin Si emerge and heard her sweet voice!
This... since when did the Jiang family have such a pretty girl? Why hadn't he seen her before?
When both Gu Qingyao and Mo Beihan were overseas, the latter had asked Lin Dongxu to take care of the Jiang family, so he had visited them many times.
Then Gu Qingyao and Mo Beihan came back, and he stopped visiting. So this was the first time Lin Dongxu was seeing Qin Si.
It was as if he had seen a fairy!
Qin Si grabbed Gu Qingyao's hand and went in. "Yao Yao, what have you been busy with recently? I haven't seen you for so long. And my older brother seems possessed. He's always out these days, saying he's looking for business opportunities."
Lin Dongxu, who was following behind, looked on stupidly. Mo Beihan happened to see him and he frowned then gave him a little push. "What are you looking at?"
"Ah? Oh!" Lin Dongxu snapped out of his trance and laughed foolishly in Mo Beihan's direction. "Hehehe, Boss..."
Mo Beihan: "..."
Lin Dongxu glanced at Qin Si's disappearing figure and said, "Boss, is that girl Sister-in-law's friend?"
Mo Beihan raised his brows. "Taken a fancy to her?"
Lin Dongxu continued to laugh foolishly and reached out to scratch his head.
Mo Beihan patted his shoulder. "If you want to court her, you'll have to work hard. That one's a rich girl, and she has a nice personality. She comes from a good family and is well educated!"
Lin Dongxu was shocked. "A rich girl? Then... then I have to work hard. Th-then... Boss, how hard do I have to work before I'm worthy of her?"
Mo Beihan's lips twitch. "If you stay loyal to me, you'll be worthy of her!"
Lin Dongxu's eyes lit up, and he immediately promised, "Boss, don't worry. I swear I'll be loyal to you all my life. I'll never leave you!"
Mo Beihan's expression darkened, and he aimed a kick at him. "Do you always know what to say?"
Chapter 783: Second Cousin, You Look So Handsome Today (1)
Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios
Lin Dongxu was so frightened he hurriedly jumped aside. He said pitifully and fawningly, "Boss, of course I do. I'm such a sweet talker!"
Mo Beihan: "..."
He could not be bothered with his fool. Mo Beihan entered while Lin Dongxu straightened his clothes and hurried after him.
Meanwhile, Gu Qingyao had heard Qin Si's question and asked, "Brother Qin is looking for business opportunities?"
Qin Si said, "That's right! Older Brother says that the market here is still developing, and there are many opportunities. He wants to go out and observe the situation so that the Qin family can advance more quickly when they return."
Gu Qingyao smiled. The situation in China was like that now!
Qin Zhiyuan had carefully groomed his oldest son, Qin Li, to be his successor. He definitely had foresight. Qin Zhiyuan had not settled his business overseas, so he was unable to return at the moment. He certainly had his reasons for asking this oldest son to go over first.
Gu Qingyao laughed. "Brother Qin has good foresight. The current environment is very suitable for starting a business."
Qin Si smiled. "Do you think so too? My older brother is so excited. He says there's a fortune to be made everywhere. Anything he does will do well. There are plenty of business opportunities.
"But he is not in a hurry precisely because the market is big and everything is just starting. He might as well carefully consider what he wants to do. It won't matter if he starts a little later."
Gu Qingyao chuckled. "Your older brother is a chip off the old block. He has good judgment. In today's environment, many people are hurrying to advance, afraid to miss out on opportunities!
"But a family like the Qins, with such capabilities and capital, really does not need to rush. There's plenty of time before the current market becomes saturated! You have plenty of time to carefully consider what you want to do and how you want to do it. Even if you start a few years later, you won't miss the opportunity."
In the next few decades, there would be sufficient market space for them. Qin Li really did not need to rush.
A capable person with good judgment was always rational and patient.
Qin Si's eyes crinkled in a smile. "My older brother says so too. Yao Yao, you've already said that the now is the right time and that it's easy for any business to succeed. Don't you want to start something too?"
Gu Qingyao raised her brows. "What do you want to do?"
Qin Si chuckled. "Hehehe! Why miss the chance to earn some money! At my age, I can't always be dependent on my family! My older brother is so rich, I can't always be the younger sister!"
Qin Si had been the Qin family's young lady since birth. She had received the best education since young, and she had always moved in the best social circles. Naturally, her expenditure was rather high.
The Qin family had always provided for her.
Now she was grown up and had graduated with an advanced degree but had never worked.
The Qin family's business had never had anything to do with medicine. Also, Qin Si had always been Gu Qingyao's classmate. Since Gu Qingyao continued her studies, Qin Si also carried on studying. Anyway, the Qin family was so rich that she was not in a hurry to find a job and earn money.
After graduation, an opportunity arose to come back to China. With her grandparents here, she followed her older brother to visit them.
She had been keeping Jiang Yiru and Old Master Qin company for the past few months. Sometimes, she went to Jiang Yiru's clinic to help out, but she did not have a steady job or source of income.
Her brother had started work long ago. Although it was a family company, he had his own salary while she did not.
Gu Qingyao smiled. There were plenty of things that she wanted to do!
But she had started long ago.
Chapter 784: Second Cousin, You Look So Handsome Today (2)
Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios
"What area are you interested in? Do you just want to make some pocket money, or are you thinking of building a career?" Gu Qingyao asked. "You've studied medicine. Are you thinking of developing in that direction?"
Qin Si bowed her head. "That's what bothers me. To be honest, I quite enjoy being a doctor. I've studied medicine since I was young. If I were not interested in this area, I would not have spent so much energy on this subject and pursued this line of study for so long.
"If I were overseas, I might just find a job in a better hospital. But in China, I don't know where I should go. Recently, I've learnt a lot from my grandmother, but I'm just helping out, and it's not a real job.
"And you? What are you thinking of doing?"
Gu Qingyao said, "I'll go into business and medicine. But I won't look for a position in a hospital. I'm thinking of starting my own hospital and teaching students."
Qin Si was shocked!
"You... You want to start your own hospital? And teach students?"
Gu Qingyao picked up a cup of hot tea from the table and cradled it in her hands. She nodded. "That's right! I'm just one person. There is a limit to what I can do. Isn't it better to teach more students? I'm more interested in medical research rather than spending all my time seeing and treating patients. That's not the best use of my abilities."
In the next few decades, medical treatment would become a major problem.
Gu Qingyao had confidence in her own medical skills. At her level, she should focus on raising the standards in the medical community and achieving more medical breakthroughs that would benefit everyone. Not just see patients over and over again.
Qin Si grew quiet. She felt that she could not attain Gu Qingyao's ideal.
Her father had told her about her grandmother since she was young, so she knew that her family was the Jiangnan Medical Family.
She deeply respected her grandmother, so she was interested in medicine from a young age. Her father had been very supportive of her studying medicine. It felt as though she was carrying on the family profession.
But her medical abilities could not compare to Gu Qingyao's. Grandmother said that Gu Qingyao's medical talent was greater even than hers, the most famous doctor in Jiangnan. It was completely normal for Gu Qingyao to have these ideas.
But this path was not suitable for her. She preferred working as a doctor.
Qin Si said, "I feel that I would rather have my own job! I'll find a suitable hospital and gain some experience. As for earning money, I don't intend to have a career. I just need some pocket money."
She did not need Gu Qingyao to help her plan what to do. The Qin family had its roots in business. With a father like Qin Zhiyuan and an older brother like Qin Li, Qin Si could do whatever she liked.
When she heard that Gu Qingyao wanted to start her own hospital and teach students, Jiang Yiru leaned over. "Do you have plans in this area? Where is your hospital going to be?"
Gu Qingyao was taken aback!
Jiang Yiru laughed. "Your Grandfather Qin and I are thinking of retiring to our hometown. If you want to start a hospital, we can lend a hand when we're free. We can offer some consultations, or help out with the children, or teach a little."
Gu Qingyao was surprised by Jiang Yiru's words. "Teacher, are you thinking of giving up your current job?"
Old Master Qin laughed. "Your teacher and I are growing old. We want to enjoy our last years. Most importantly, daily work no longer suits us.. There's such a high volume of work that we can't manage. We can do a little work here and there, but we can't go to work on time every day anymore!"
Chapter 785: Second Cousin, You Look So Handsome Today (3)
Gu Qingyao thought about it and agreed. Medicine was a tiring profession. One could not manage without a certain amount of energy. The two of them were old, and they did not have as much energy as the younger folks. They could work now and then, but to carry on like that every day was too much.
Gu Qingyao said, "Teacher, Grandfather Qin, in that case, you should just resign, come back, and have a good rest.
"As for me, it's just a plan. I haven't started to implement it! It will take at least another two years. Uncle Qin is coming back this year. Then you can do whatever you like. If the two of you feel bored, you can occasionally take in a student. At your level, I'm sure you will be welcome anywhere."
Jiang Yiru laughed. "That's true!"
It was winter, so it was cold outside. A little brazier burned in the house. Gu Qingyao had specially brought tea leaves for the two old folks, and everyone gathered around to chat.
"Have you set your wedding date?" Jiang Yiru placed great importance on Gu Qingyao and Mo Beihan's marriage.
Mo Beihan smiled when he heard Jiang Yiru's question. "We haven't set the actual date, but it should be soon. Probably over the next few months.
"I've received news that my in-laws will be back soon. Uncle Qin will come with them."
Jiang Yiru was startled, then delighted. "Really?"
"Really! They'll be back at the beginning of next month. The Qiao family and Uncle Qin will travel together. Uncle Qin is bringing the children to visit you. I'm here today to bring you the news.
"As for our wedding, it will take place shortly after my in-laws' wedding."
This was good news. Jiang Yiru was elated!
"Wow, that's wonderful. We can have a good celebration."
Even Gu Qingyao had not heard this piece of news.
"Are they really coming back? Why didn't I know?"
Mo Beihan laughed. "It's a surprise for you. Uncle Qin especially sent the news to me."
Qin Zhiyuan had been planning to return to China earlier to visit Jiang Yiru and Old Master Qin. But in the end, he had chosen to let his oldest son and daughter return first while he remained overseas.
Partly because China was not yet opened up sufficiently, so he could not do much in the short term after returning. He might not be able to bring his parents away either. Meanwhile, his overseas business would certainly be affected.
But the main problem with Gu Yunshen.
The Huo family was naturally unwilling to allow Qiao Yuying to marry Gu Yunshen. With Gu Yunshen over there, Qin Zhiyuan had to stay behind to protect him.
In this regard, Qin Zhiyuan felt that remaining behind himself rather than Qin Li was better.
It was a special request from Mo Beihan, so Qin Zhiyuan had agreed. He wanted to do Mo Beihan a favor, which would bring more opportunities for business cooperation in the future. Also, he wanted to thank Gu Qingyao for taking care of Jiang Yiru and Old Master Qin in China.
Now the Qiao family had accepted Gu Yunshen, and they were preparing to return to China. Then Qin Zhiyuan himself could come back too.
This was definitely good news for Gu Qingyao. She remained in a state of excitement all the way home.
If Gu Qingyao was happy, then Mo Beihan was happy. Lin Dongxu was happy too.
He had seen a fairy today. He must work towards this goal.
Mo Beihan left after sending Gu Qingyao home. After Gu Qingyao climbed the stairs, she suddenly remembered something. Her second cousin, Gu Jinhang, happened to be in the living room, so she said, "Second Cousin, please ask the kitchen to prepare more ingredients. Mingyue is coming over tomorrow to have a cooking lesson with me."
Chapter 786: Second Cousin, You Look So Handsome Today (4)
Gu Jinhang had been reading on the sofa, but when he heard that, his eyelids twitched.
Ji Mingyue had probably been inspired by Gu Qingyao that day. She had left her past behind and was focused on improving her life.
She had already arranged a cooking lesson for tomorrow.
The next day was Sunday. Gu Qingyao was still in bed when she was woken up by someone knocking on her door. She sleepily yawned and opened the door only to find Mo Beihan standing at the doorway, wearing a long black coat.
Gu Qingyao was startled. "Why are you here?"
"To have breakfast with you!"
Gu Qingyao: "..."
He saw that the girl was still looking dazed and had clearly just woken up. Mo Beihan missed seeing her like that. When they were overseas, he saw her in this state every day. But they had to separate after returning to China. He had not seen her in this just awakened state for a long time.
Mo Beihan entered happily. He reached out and pulled her into his embrace. Gu Qingyao conveniently pillowed her head on his shoulder.
"Are you still sleepy? Do you want to sleep a little longer?"
She treated him like a human bolster and leaned on him. He dragged her over to the bed.
Gu Qingyao yawned as she lay back down in her comfortable blankets. She closed her eyes and hugged Mo Beihan.
Mo Beihan half reclined against the head of the bed as he held her in his arms. He stroked her smooth hair, enchanted by her girlish scent.
Under her thin pajamas was the skin that he had been longing for. As he held her, his hand slid under her clothes.
Today was the weekend, and there were many people in the Gu house. Of course, Gu Qingyao would not allow him to misbehave.
Mo Beihan looked pitiful as he kept rubbing her nose. "It's been so long. Don't you miss me?"
Gu Qingyao smiled at him without saying anything.
Mo Beihan kept rubbing. "Come with me to my place this afternoon, all right?"
"What place?"
"Um! Not the Mo house. A house I have outside. Just the two of us."
This bastard had not been separated from her for so long when they were overseas. The current separation had made him impatient.
But she missed him too.
Gu Qingyao hugged him around the neck and pulled him downwards. Then she whispered in his ear. "Okay!"
Then she brought him straight into her interspace and consoled him tenderly.
The Gu household kept a very regular schedule. Breakfast was served at a fixed time every morning. They were very strict with their children. Unless there were exceptional circumstances, they were not allowed to laze around in bed.
It was breakfast time, so Gu Qingyao and Mo Beihan came downstairs. They had not been in the room too long, so no one suspected anything.
Only Gu Jinhang narrowed his eyes when he saw Mo Beihan's smug expression!
But he was swiftly distracted by the strange look that his younger cousin was giving him.
Gu Jinhang said, "Why are you looking at me like that?"
Gu Qingyao asked as she ate her porridge, "Second Cousin, do you have important business today? You look very handsome!"
Gu Jinhang paused. Not only was he not embarrassed, but he even earnestly straightened his shirt and asked Gu Qingyao expectantly, "Really? Very handsome?"
Gu Qingyao nodded. "Um! Very handsome!"
Gu Jinhang raised his brows and looked rather smug. "I've always been very handsome!"
Gu Qingyao: "..."
Everyone else: "..."
Was he crazy?
Chapter 787: Second Cousin, You Look So Handsome Today (5)
Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios
Ji Mingyue arrived soon after breakfast was over. After entering the Gu house, the first person she saw in the living room was Gu Jinhang.
Gu Jinhang was looking very suave and especially young that day. When he saw Ji Mingyue, he immediately smiled warmly and said, "You're here? All the ingredients are ready. Take a look and see if you need anything else. I've asked someone to prepare everything for you."
A gentle, suave, handsome man was talking to her so warmly. Ji Mingyue had encountered many contemptuous looks in recent times. It was very rare for someone as important as Gu Jinhang to be so polite to her.
She had not expected Gu Jinhang to be the first person she encountered upon entering. She immediately blushed. She was rather intimidated by Gu Jinhang's warm gaze.
"Second... Second Brother Gu, how are you? I'm here to have fun with Yao Yao, I don't need much."
Gu Jinhang continued to smile warmly. "No problem. Yesterday, Yao Yao mentioned that you are cooking together, so I prepared a little more. You might as well stay and have lunch with everyone today. There are so many people in the Gu family, and we get along pretty well. We have lively gatherings every Sunday. Everyone is usually so busy that we don't have time."
It was true that the Gu family was unusually harmonious. Most importantly, although it was a large family, there were not that many people living in Second Uncle's home.
When she was chatting with Gu Qingyao and Gu Fangting previously, they had mentioned buying a house and moving out.
Eldest Uncle Gu had always lived somewhere else, and his family had their own jobs. They lived in their own house. Although the family included the eldest son and grandson, the old folks had always lived with their second son. The eldest son and his family lived somewhere else.
Gu Fangting wanted to move out with her mother, and in the future, she would get married. Gu Qingyao was waiting for her parents to return to China, then she would move out too. Soon, she would marry Mo Beihan and move to the Mo house.
In that case, only the old folks would be living with Second Uncle's family.
Gu Jinfeng was still overseas. Even if he came back, it would just be Gu Jinfeng and Gu Jinhang, who were brothers.
Ji Mingyue could tell that even though the Gu family lived in harmony and often did not distinguish between each other but treated everyone as members of the same family, they were all very self-aware.
In this area, the Ji family could not compare to them.
Actually, the Ji family also got along very well. But over the past few years, the Ji family had done very well, and the eldest son had grown increasingly important, which had created a divide. Also, the brothers were married, and the addition of sisters-in-law to the family had caused some friction too.
Until now, all the Ji family members who worked in the capital lived together. Her second and third uncles, her older brother, sister-in-law and nephews all lived together.
In reality, the house belonged to the eldest son. But her father and older brother were the eldest son and grandson, respectively. Her uncles showed no sign of moving out. The eldest son had done well because of the Mo family's help, and his house was the Ji family's residence in the capital. If they moved out, it meant a reduction in status.
For the past two years, they had continually suggested bringing her grandparents to the capital. They hinted that filial sons and grandsons should be pleased to have their parents staying with them. But their ulterior motive was to turn the eldest son's house into the Ji family residence so that these sons and grandsons could continue staying in their parents' or grandparents' house more legitimately.
Her grandparents discerned their intention, so they remained in the provincial capital and refused to move to the capital.
Ji Mingyue immediately looked envious. "That's right! It's rare to have a break. Everyone is usually busy with work. It's nice to gather on the weekends to chat and have a meal!"
Gu Jinhang was such an intelligent man, of course he noticed the trace of envy in Ji Mingyue's eyes.
Chapter 788: Marry Me (1)
Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios
Gu Jinhang said, "Yao Yao is busy in the backyard. The ingredients are in the kitchen! Take a look while I get someone to call for Yao Yao."
"Oh! All right, I'll go now."
Ji Mingyue turned and went to the kitchen.
Ji Mingyue was very respectful towards Gu Jinhang. His status was higher even than her oldest brother and he was famous both for his abilities and his tactics. Among the talented young people in the capital, his family background might not be the best, but he was certainly one of the most competent.
Ji Mingyue almost instinctively obeyed such a capable and important person.
A smile flashed across Gu Jinhang's eyes when he saw the girl walk towards the kitchen. He sauntered over as well. He had no intention of calling his younger cousin.
She was busy cooing at Mo Beihan! She was too busy to come over. As her older cousin, he felt that he had better not disrupt the young lovers. That would be wrong!
Ji Mingyue reached the Gu kitchen. Their kitchen was very large. As a cultured family, they were very particular about certain things.
When they were staying in their hometown, they were in no condition to be particular about such things. They also had to be thrifty and avoid being seen as extravagant or wasteful.
Now no one was bothered about such things. As long as they had the money, they could enjoy what they liked.
The Gu family was not extravagant, but they certainly lived well.
The kitchen had to provide food for the entire family, so it was very large. Much larger than the kitchen of most ordinary families.
When Ji Mingyue entered, she was shocked by the kitchen full of ingredients!
She knew that the Gu family was particular about food, and the kitchen was usually well-stocked. She knew it from the first time she had come to the Gu house with Gu Qingyao, and had seen the kind of detailed attention that Gu Qingyao had paid to her cooking.
But today, the array of ingredients was dazzling.
There was meat and vegetables, things that flew, things that ran and things that swam. They were all there.
Gu Jinhang followed closely behind. Ji Mingyue said, "Second Brother Gu, there's... there's too much!"
Gu Jinhang smiled gently. He had been born in a cultured family like the Gus and had been well-taught since young. This had naturally molded his disposition.
"I didn't know what you would like to cook, or want to cook, so I just prepared more. Anyway, the house is very lively on weekends. I'm sure we can finish everything."
When he said that, he added nonchalantly, "If we can't finish today, we can use them tomorrow. Cooking is not something that can be learnt in a day or two. Yao Yao is home all the time now. You can come and learn from her every day."
Ji Mingyue: ...
That seemed to make sense.
"Thank you, Second Brother Gu!"
Gu Jinhang had always been very nice to her. There were wild rumors outside about how he was as cunning as a fox, but he showed no trace of that here.
1
"Don't stand on ceremony with me. Your older brother and I are good friends. We are on good terms. It's only right that I take care of you."
Ji Mingyue: ...
She was not used to such an important person, whom she did not know very well, suddenly being so nice to her. He even seemed to be very familiar with her.
Gu Qingyao still did not come. The Gu kitchen was very large, but Gu Jinhang's presence was very imposing. There were only two of them in the room. Ji Mingyue felt stifled by his presence. She grew rather disconcerted.
When Gu Jinhang saw the state she was in, he said, "I heard from your older brother that you've been feeling down lately. He's looking for a match for you now.. He even asked if I know anyone who might be suitable to introduce to you."
Chapter 789: Marry Me (2)
Ji Mingyue blushed. "I... My older brother worries about nothing. He... he..."
Ji Mingyue stuttered for a long time but did not manage to say anything.
Gu Jinhang laughed and said, "It's normal for your older brother to be concerned about you. The Bai family is truly unreasonable. You've suffered a lot over the past few years.
"I heard that Bai Chi can't find a girlfriend now and he's back to harassing you, right?"
Ji Mingyue looked rather embarrassed.
Gu Jinhang hurriedly said, "Don't feel bad. There's no need to feel embarrassed either. It's the Bai family's fault for being so shameless. It has nothing to do with you. Actually, the main reason behind why the Bai family is treating you like that is because you're the Ji family's daughter. The Ji family is useful to them."
Ji Mingyue raised her head and looked at him. "I know. The Bai family wants the Ji family's allegiance. My father and older brothers won't agree. They don't really want to have anything to do with the Bais."
Gu Jinhang said, "That's right. The Bai family is ruthless, and their tactics are despicable and vicious. They have framed many people in the past. Some of them have slowly regained their jobs, and their influence in the capital is growing. Of course they dislike the Bais, so the Bai family hasn't been doing well lately.
"To the point that..." Gu Jinhang glanced at Ji Mingyue and continued speaking loftily. "The member of the Bai family with the highest status is Old Master Bai. The members of the second and third generations are fairly mediocre. The Bai family has also done too many immoral things in the past. They've been doing poorly for the last two years, so they want to drag the Ji family down with them."
Ji Mingyue was shocked!
She did not know much about such things. She just knew that the Bai family and the Ji family were in different camps, but the Ji family was doing better. The Bai family wanted to control the Ji family for their own benefit. but the Ji family had refused.
So the Bai family set their sights on her, the Ji family's only girl.
Gu Jinhang said, "The Bai family is determined to have you. They won't give up even if you refuse. In the end, they will probably find some way to force you to consent. If you refuse to marry into the family, it means that the Ji family is no use to them. The Ji family's existence threatens the Bai family. They will never permit the Ji family to continue to grow. If they can... they will exterminate you."
Ji Mingyue was ashen. "Then... then what should we do?"
Gu Jinhang hurried to console her gently. "Don't worry. I'm just analyzing the situation from the Bai family's perspective. Under normal circumstances, it won't be easy to completely eradicate a family like the Ji family. At the moment, the Bai family does not want to make such a strong enemy. The easiest solution is to force you to agree."
When he saw Ji Mingyue's pale face, Gu Jinhang did not give her an opportunity to speak. Instead, he continued to reason with her. "Your father and older brothers dote on you. Of course, they can't bear to let you become the sacrificial lamb in a marriage alliance. But the moment you marry into the Bai family, the Ji family will be curbed in every way."
Gu Jinhang was highly intelligent. He was extremely good at scheming and was a crafty person. He especially delighted in using his intellect to crush others. But it was rare for him to give someone such a detailed analysis and explanation.
He usually gave you a lofty look and let you figure it out!
Gu Jinhang was so outstanding and moved in powerful circles. Also, he was Gu Qingyao's older cousin. Ji Mingyue was not at all wary of him. She was immediately terrified. She grabbed Gu Jinhang's arm. "Then... what should I do? What should I do?"
Gu Jinhang's lips arched. "I actually have a solution!"
Ji Mingyue's eyes lit up. "What's your solution?"
"Marry me!"
Chapter 790: Preparing A Matrimonial Home (1)
Ji Mingyue was stunned!
She was completely bewildered by Gu Jinhang's words.
Ma-marry him?
Gu Jinhang had babbled so much nonsense before he finally spat out these two words. When he saw that the girl was deeply shocked, he raised his eyebrows and said seriously, "Did I say something wrong?"
"Ah? I mean..." Ji Mingyue's mind had turned to mush. She could not keep up with him at all.
Gu Jinhang laughed. "I'm your older brother's good friend. Of course I won't mistreat you. Among the Gu family's grandchildren, I am also the successor. Marrying me will increase your status.
"The Gu family and the Bai family are in two different camps, and there is no love lost between us. It doesn't matter to me if I offend them by marrying you!
"Especially since the Gu family's power and connections are pretty good. In the future, we will certainly be a match for the Bai family. You don't have to worry that we will make things difficult for you because of the Bai family. Among the younger generation in the capital, I am fairly outstanding. Don't you think that marrying me is a pretty good choice?"
Ji Mingyue: ...
How should she respond?
She knew that Gu Jinhang was the Gu family's next successor. Based on his abilities, it did seem that... marrying him was a good choice.
But...
Ji Mingyue was still looking dazed. Gu Jinhang chuckled and slowly drew closer. The two of them were very close to each other. He bent a little and moved even closer to her.
"Do you want to consider me? If you agree, I'll bring you to beat the wits out of Bai Chi!"
Ji Mingyue: ...
But Gu Jinhang's words had unsettled Ji Mingyue. Later on, she was very distracted when Gu Qingyao was teaching her how to cook.
"Mingyue, what's the matter?"
Gu Qingyao asked when she saw Mingyue's attention wandering off again and again.
"No-nothing!" Ji Mingyue shrank back guiltily. Her heart was pounding. She could not calm herself down.
Gu Qingyao cooked most of the lunch. Ji Mingyue only cooked a few dishes, which tasted rather bland.
Ji Mingyue was rather embarrassed. She put the food she had cooked aside.
She stayed at the Gu house for lunch.
The Old Master and Old Madam were there. Eldest Uncle's family was not there that day, so it was just Second Uncle, Second Aunt, and Gu Fangting.
Mo Beihan stayed too. The little fellow, Mu Mu, adored Gu Qingyao. Today was the weekend, so he had come over for a meal too.
There were so many people at the table. Gu Jinhang and Mo Beihan went into the kitchen to help bring out the dishes.
Gu Jinhang saw a few dishes that did not look very nice, which had been placed to one side. He reached out and brought them out.
Ji Mingyue was getting the drinks and did not notice.
When she brought the drinks to the table, she naturally sat next to Gu Qingyao. She was most familiar with Gu Qingyao, so she was used to sitting with her. Mo Beihan sat at Gu Qingyao's other side.
She had just sat down when she saw Gu Jinhang bringing her pathetic-looking dishes. He sat down next to her and calmly placed the slightly charred food on the table in front of himself.
Ji Mingyue: ...
She was already unsettled from the morning's incident. Now this person was sitting next to her, which agitated her further. Then she looked at her failed dishes and felt even more embarrassed.
"Second Brother Gu, these... these were failures, don't..."
She wanted to tell him not to eat them, but before she could finish her sentence, Gu Jinhang had already picked up his chopsticks and tried them. "They're all right! I think they're not bad. I saw them in the kitchen, so I brought them out!"
Ji Mingyue: ...
Chapter 791: Preparing A Matrimonial Home (2)
Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios
Ji Mingyue ate very carefully.
She knew this side of the Gu family. They did not have many rules, and they chatted as they ate. Especially Mu Mu. He seemed to have an endless number of things to say to Gu Qingyao.
But Ji Mingyue was different. In the past, she would not have minded, but she felt incredibly nervous to have Gu Jinhang sitting next to her.
Especially when she saw him calmly eating her burnt dishes. She grew even more careful.
Gu Jinhang glanced at her. "It's all right, this is not considered a failure. When conditions were poorer in the past, many people would not even have such food. Perhaps you're not used to our house? So you're unable to fully utilize your talents? Tomorrow is a holiday as well. Why not let Yao Yao teach you at your house?"
Gu Qingyao, who was chatting with Mo Beihan: "..."
Since when did she say she was going to the Ji House? She was busy tomorrow!
Gu Jinhang glanced at his younger cousin and smiled gently. "Yao Yao, you're free anyway. You can go to the Ji house tomorrow to have fun. I'll send you there."
Gu Qingyao: "..."
Gu Qingyao looked at Mo Beihan, puzzled. What's the matter with my second cousin?
Mo Beihan smiled and poured her a bowl of soup. Gu Qingyao silently drank a mouthful before she said to Gu Jinhang, "Oh, all right! I have nothing much to do for the next few days."
Mo Beihan: "..."
Wife, if you have nothing much to do, you can keep me company.
After dinner, Ji Mingyue was so frightened that she hurried home. Gu Jinhang emerged, holding his coat. "Are you leaving? It's along my way. I'll give you a ride!"
He led the way without giving Ji Mingyue a chance to respond. His tone might have been gentle, but it brooked no refusal.
Ji Mingyue: ...
She had no choice but to obediently follow Gu Jinhang.
They had just left when Gu Qingyao poked her head out of the second floor's stairwell. She looked at the two vanishing figures, then turned and asked Mo Beihan, "Did you realize that something is amiss with my second cousin?"
Mo Beihan looked thoughtful. What could be amiss? He had clearly taken a fancy to the girl!
Men knew other men the best. He had instantly understood Gu Jinhang's expression when he looked at Ji Mingyue.
Mo Beihan did not reply but pulled his wife into his arms. "Your second cousin has sent you to the Ji family to work as a coolie tomorrow. Don't you think you should spend the afternoon with me?"
Gu Qingyao: "..."
She rubbed her nose. "It's so cold outside. There's nowhere to go!"
Mo Beihan said. "We're going to my house. My own house. I guarantee it will be warm!"
Gu Qingyao: "..."
There was no escape. Mo Beihan bundled up Gu Qingyao and whisked her away.
Meanwhile, Gu Jinhang and Ji Mingyue had gotten into the car. A chauffeur was driving. Gu Jinhang sat at the back. His air of cunning and menace had vanished. He now seemed gentle and harmless. He even looked a little like a rich playboy.
Ji Mingyue sat next to him, her heart thumping away. She could not manage to say a single word.
"Are you very afraid of me?" Gu Jinhang suddenly asked.
Ji Mingyue's heart leapt. "No, no!"
"Did what I said just now frighten you?"
Ji Mingyue bit her lips. She lowered her head and did not speak.
Gu Jinhang got up slightly and drew nearer to her. She could feel his hot breath in her ear. "You don't need to be afraid of me. I'm the one pursuing you. In fact, I should be the one worried that you won't consent!"
Screech!
The brakes screeched. The chauffeur was so shocked by his master that he had stepped on the brakes.. The car, which had been driving smoothly, suddenly jerked to a halt, causing Ji Mingyue to scream and jerk forward.
There was a small hill and a large lake at the foot of the hill. Soon, other villas would be constructed, stretching from the foot of the hill to its top.
Gu Qingyao was stunned for a long time when she saw it. "This... when did you prepare this? Is this place about to be developed?"
Surely not?
So fast?
Chapter 793: Preparing A Matrimonial Home (4)
Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios
She could not remember when this place had grown affluent in her previous life. In any case, this area became very expensive later on. There was a high demand for houses here. Even if you could afford it, you might not be able to obtain a house here.
Mo Beihan laughed. "It isn't going to develop just yet, but I've bought a piece of land now and built a villa. It will be our matrimonial home. It's quite near to both the Gu house and the Mo house, so it will be convenient to live here in the future."
Gu Qingyao smiled. The location was very convenient, especially with a business district not far from the foot of the hill. It would be easy for her to get to work and back.
Although this was currently a rather simple villa, considering how wealthy Mo Beihan was, his future home with Gu Qingyao would not be too simple. It would certainly have everything.
Construction was still ongoing. Only the mainframe and the central part had been completed. It could be used as a matrimonial home, but it would take some time to complete the entire villa.
Gu Qingyao looked upwards. "How many levels are there in total?"
"Three. There's also a penthouse upstairs. Our bedroom is on the second floor."
Gu Qingyao climbed the spiral staircase. The largest room on the second level was the master bedroom. The room was extremely large, with a spacious balcony. The balcony and the bedroom were about a hundred square meters in total and that did not include the toilet, wardrobes, and so on.
The cloakroom was a hundred square meters and adjoined the bedroom. This was for the clothes that they wore frequently. There was another huge cloakroom on the third floor that occupied half the level.
Gu Qingyao's favorite was the bedroom's balcony. It was so beautiful. She could stand there and look at the large backyard, which even included a sizable pond. Mo Beihan reached out and embraced her. "In the future, you can plant whatever you like here. The space here is within sight of the bedroom balcony and is nearer the front yard, so it's mainly for flowers."
"Over there..." Mo Beihan pointed to a patch further away and around the corner. "There is a very large space there that is reserved for your medicinal herbs. The pond can be used to keep fish and prawns. When we're young, we can use it for picnics or host fun gatherings for our friends. When we're old, we can potter around the garden, jog, or fish."
Gu Qingyao leaned back into his embrace and smiled sweetly. "You've even planned our life when we're old! I'm still young! I don't want to be old."
Mo Beihan pinched her little nose. "Even when you grow old, you'll still be a good-looking old lady."
Gu Qingyao smiled, then turned to look at the other rooms.
There were many rooms on the second floor. Besides the study, there were a few guest rooms. At the moment, only the study was completed. The rest were still under construction.
At the end of the second floor's corridor was a very large balcony. Gu Qingyao especially liked it.
"This house is so big, it will seem very empty with just the two of us!"
Mo Beihan laughed. "If you're willing, why not have a few children? Then there will be children running everywhere in this house, and it will be more lively.
"Anyway, it is very troublesome to maintain a large house like that. I'll be working, and I can't possibly leave you to do all the housework. I can't bear to do that. I'll find a few servants to maintain the garden and the medicinal patch. I'll also get a housekeeper to take care of your day-to-day needs. All right?"
Gu Qingyao nodded. With a large house like that, they would certainly need to hire servants. As for children...
Gu Qingyao earnestly asked, "Brother Beihan, do you want a child?"
A child...
Mo Beihan was amused. It seemed that this girl was pretty influential. To be honest, he had been very busy in the years that they were overseas. Yao Yao had always been the one he trusted the most. Of course, he would not deliberately have her investigated.
He knew she dabbled in many businesses, but he really did not know what these businesses were exactly.
Chapter 795: Zhang Xiaohui Meets Bai Youran (1)
Mo Beihan laughed. "Of course it's your own private money. Don't worry, my money is also your money."
Gu Qingyao glared at him as she silently drank her soup.
Her glance was flirtatious; Mo Beihan was charmed.
The private room was warmly lit. The girl in front of him was looking at him rather flirtatiously, which made him recall the sight of her begging for mercy when he bullied her just now. Mo Beihan grew agitated. He got up and moved over to Gu Qingyao's seat and pulled her onto his lap.
"Let me try some!"
Gu Qingyao fed him a spoonful of soup. A couple that was deeply in love shared many sweet moments. Even the simplest action could be filled with bliss as long as the two of them were together.
The meal took more than an hour. By the time Mo Beihan led Gu Qingyao out of the room, it was completely dark. It was past 8 pm, but it was not too late. It was just the right time to go back and rest.
Gu Qingyao was still slightly flushed when they emerged from the private room. She was about to go down the stairs when she saw Bai Youran and Bai Chi walking towards her. The cousins had arrived later and were just about to go upstairs for a meal, only to see Gu Qingyao and Mo Beihan walking down the stairs.
Both of them narrowed their eyes. They were in a towering rage!
"Why are you here?" Bai Youran shrieked when she saw Gu Qingyao with Mo Beihan.
Gu Qingyao's lips twitched. Why did this woman ask her the same question every time they met?
Next to her, Bai Chi narrowed his eyes as he looked at Gu Qingyao.
He did not know this girl, but he had seen her once over Ji Mingyue's incident. It was just one meeting, but it had left a deep impression on him.
Over the years, he had met many pretty girls in the capital. Even Ji Mingyue was a beautiful girl. But one like Gu Qingyao was truly rare.
Many families in the capital had grown prosperous in recent years because of the times. Instead, the illustrious families of the past were not progressing well. Most had not even managed to cling onto a shred of prestige.
Now the wealthy families had status but were uncultured. They were low-class and had a bone-deep aura of pettiness.
But Gu Qingyao was different. She had an aura of quiet elegance and appeared both respectable and sweet. Her smile was genial, and she was a classic genteel young lady from an illustrious family.
There were plenty of pretty girls, but one as outstanding as Gu Qingyao was truly rare. At least, she was the only one he had encountered after so many years, so of course she had left a deep impression.
Although he spent a long time tracing her, he had not discovered who she was. He had not expected to see her here today.
But when he saw Gu Qingyao flush shyly as she walked down the stairs with Mo Beihan, Bai Chi understood what was going on.
She already belonged to someone?
Damn it!
"What is your relationship?" Bai Chi asked coldly. He wanted to be sure.
Mo Beihan's expression had already grown frosty. He was not that angry when he saw Bai Youran, but when his glance fell on Bai Chi, his expression changed.
He was a man. Of course, he knew the meaning of the look that Bai Chi was giving Gu Qingyao. His Yao Yao was so pretty, elegant, and charming. He had doted on her for so many years that she had a blissful and happy look, which only made a girl like that even more beautiful and charming. It easily drew men's eyes.
When they were overseas, he had dealt with many fools like that. Now that they were back in China, few people in the capital knew Yao Yao. But as time went on, someone was sure to discover this beauty!
And Bai Chi was the first!
Mo Beihan's lips twitched in a rather bloodthirsty manner!
Chapter 796: Zhang Xiaohui Meets Bai Youran (2)
Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios
Gu Qingyao did not say anything, but Mo Beihan spoke, "What is our relationship? Are you blind?"
Bai Chi's expression changed. He was the Bai Family's Young Master. Few in the capital would dare to be so rude to him.
"Mo Beihan, you're pretty arrogant!"
Mo Beihan grunted coldly and slowly walked down the stairs. "I can't be bothered with you as long as you keep your eyes to yourself."
"You..."
"Beihan, how exactly is she related to you? Why are the two of you always together?" This time, it was Bai Youran who asked. She also wanted to be sure.
She had recently been visiting doctors to look for a cure. Besides Gu Qingyao, no one else had managed to cure her. She had visited all those who had studied overseas, to no avail.
To date, Gu Qingyao was the only one who said that she could cure Bai Youran. But this woman had something going on with Mo Beihan. She could not accept that.
When Bai Youran shouted, everyone turned and waited for Mo Beihan's answer.
She was so pretty, any man would fancy her. Of course, they hoped that she was not taken. They must come from rich families to be able to eat at this restaurant, so there were many playboys present. Obviously, they were interested when they saw a pretty girl.
Mo Beihan's eyes narrowed when he saw the looks of the bystanders. He held Gu Qingyao's hand and said bluntly, "She's my fiancée!"
Bai Youran was shocked!
Fi-fiancée?
"Impossible!" Bai Youran screamed. "You've just returned from overseas, how can you possibly have a fiancée? Who is she? How can she possibly be worthy of you?"
A hostile look flashed across Mo Beihan's eyes. "Bai Youran, shut up! Watch your step. What business is it of yours whether I have a fiancée?"
"I..."
"Mo Beihan, Youran is our Bai family's young lady. She is just concerned for you. How can a man like you be so fierce to a young girl?"
Bai Chi was also fuming.
The Bai family knew that Bai Youran fancied Mo Beihan. As long as she did not embarrass the Bai family, the family supported her fancy for Mo Beihan.
The Mo family was so important. It would be a wonderful thing for the Bai family to make a marriage alliance with them!
But now, Mo Beihan and Gu Qingyao are together. One was the man that his younger cousin fancied, and the other was the girl that he fancied. They could not just let the matter go!
Mo Beihan laughed shortly. "Why is Miss Bai so concerned about other men?"
Bai Chi's expression changed. "Mo Beihan, you had better watch your words!"
Mo Beihan's eyes were ice-cold. "You should be saying that to your younger cousin. A young, unmarried girl should not be showing concern for other men when they leave the house. I don't need her concern!"
"No!" Bai Youran seemed on the verge of collapse.
She had received too many blows lately, which added to her years of pain and suffering. She had always been hot-tempered, and now that Mo Beihan was treating her like that, she could not accept it.
The Young Lady of the Bai Family had always been a lofty personage. Now all these rich playboys were watching her humiliation. Of course, Bai Youran could not take it lying down!
"Mo Beihan, how can you treat me like that? I'm the Young Lady of the Bai Family. She's just the daughter of a tiny family. Her father doesn't even have a job. How can she be your fiancée?"
"Just based on her looks?" Bai Youran looked viciously at Gu Qingyao's outstanding beauty.. "She looks like a vixen. No wonder she's so good at seducing men!"
Chapter 797: Zhang Xiaohui Meets Bai Youran (3)
Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios
Mo Beihan lost his temper. He was about to speak when Gu Qingyao reached out and grabbed his wrist.
Gu Qingyao looked at Bai Youran and smiled as she descended the stairs. "Miss Bai is seducing my fiancé so openly. Is it because you're not as pretty as I am, so no one will call you a vixen?"
Everyone: "..."
What kind of logic was that?
This...
But based on what Bai Youran had just said, it did make some sense.
Bai Youran liked Mo Beihan. She was merely sad that Mo Beihan had mocked her. But she longed to kill Gu Qingyao.
"Gu Qingyao, who do you think you are? I'm the Young Lady of the Bai Family. You..."
"So the Young Lady of the Bai Family can snatch someone else's fiancé? In public? Is that what the Bai family has taught you?"
"You..." Bai Youran was exasperated. "How dare you speak to me like that. The Bai family won't let you off. Your father is just an ordinary citizen. The Gu family can never compare to the Bai Family!"
"Ha!" Gu Qingyao laughed. "Perhaps the Gu family can never compare to the Bai Family, but the Mo family can! My fiancé will protect me."
"Shut up! Ah..." Bai Youran was so infuriated that she shrieked as she reached out to claw Gu Qingyao's face. Gu Qingyao narrowed her eyes. She grabbed Bai Youran's wrist in one swift movement and gave it a vicious twist!
"Ah..."
Bai Youran gave an ear-piercing shriek!
"Stop!" Bai Chi rushed over when he saw that his younger cousin had been hurt.
Since he had made the first move, of course Mo Beihan would not just stand by and watch. He reached out and pulled Bai Chi to one side, then landed a punch with his other hand.
Crash!
It was a hard blow. Bai Chi was not very good at fighting. How could he compare to Mo Beihan, who was adept at martial arts?
The force of the blow knocked him sideways. He stumbled and fell on a nearby table. The diners immediately scattered in terror. The dishes and drinks on the table went flying.
Bai Chi's head was ringing from the punch. He had great difficulty getting to his feet, and his mouth was bleeding. He felt that even his teeth were loose.
"Mo Beihan, is this bitch worth... ah..."
"Crash!"
Mo Beihan landed another punch before he could even finish speaking. This one was even harder than the previous one.
"Ah..."
When the bystanders saw that they were really fighting, they were so frightened that they started screaming and dodging. Bai Chi crashed into another table laden with food. Before he could get to his feet, Mo Beihan's tall figure was standing before him again. He pressed his foot on Bai Chi's chest, forcing him into the scattered remains of the meal.
"Remember, that is my fiancée. Be more courteous to her in the future. If this happens again, it won't just be a simple beating. It doesn't matter whether you are the Bai Family's Young Master or not. Do you hear me?"
Bai Youran was terrified by this sudden turn of events. As a pampered young lady of the Bai family, she was used to getting her way in the capital. In the past, they were always the ones punishing others. They had never been hit before.
"Stop! Mo Beihan, stop!"
Bai Youran rushed over to pull Mo Beihan away. Bai Chi was lying on the ground. The foot pressing on his chest prevented him from speaking.
Mo Beihan would never allow Bai Youran to touch him. The moment she reached out to grab him, he withdrew his foot and retreated to the side.
Bai Youran hurriedly helped Bai Chi up.
"Older Cousin! Are you all right?"
"Cough cough cough... cough cough..." Bai Chi coughed many times before he managed to recover himself. Bai Youran helped him to stand.
Mo Beihan had punched him twice. His cheeks were bruised and blood was flowing from his mouth.. He was covered with bits of food and drink. He was a sorry sight!
Chapter 798: Zhang Xiaohui Meets Bai Youran (4)
Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios
Bai Chi was clearly no match for Mo Beihan. It was also clear that Mo Beihan was not prepared to give in to him. Anyone could tell what was going on.
Bai Chi glared balefully at Mo Beihan and ground his teeth. "Mo Beihan, you just wait!"
He had no choice but to talk tough and leave.
The people in the restaurant exchanged glances. An ordinary person would never dare to offend the Bai family. Some of them knew Mo Beihan, but some had no idea who he was.
After all, he had been away from the capital for three years. Some of them were not familiar with him.
.
But those who knew him also knew that he had grown up in the countryside. Old Master Mo had brought him back seven years ago. He had stayed in the capital for three years and had finally managed to gain some standing in the Mo Family when he suddenly left to study overseas.
He had been gone for three years. He had only returned last year.
The Mo family's most senior lady, Jiang Hongying, maintained a high profile. As a result, almost everyone in the capital knew how influential she was. With a lady of the house like her, there could only be one outcome for a man like Mo Beihan, who had no background and had been away for so long - he had no influence in the Mo family!
For a person like that to dare to hit Bai Chi was truly...
Mo Beihan ignored everyone's looks. He simply paid for the tables that had been broken and then paid for the ruined meals to be replaced. Then he brought Gu Qingyao away.
In the car, Gu Qingyao cocked her head and looked at him. "I thought you were avoiding trouble? Why such a high profile announcement that I'm your fiancée?"
Mo Beihan was driving, but he reached over to hold her hand. "I saw too many eyes looking at you. I wanted to proclaim my ownership!"
Gu Qingyao: "..."
Was that all?
She thought that this fellow had some grand scheme against the Bai family!
All that fuss for this?
Gu Qingyao left with Mo Beihan, and the dining hall in Jin Jiang Restaurant slowly returned to normal. Everyone resumed their meals and their private discussions.
Gu Qingyao and Mo Beihan did not notice, but when they were gone, two women emerged from a corner. Zhang Xiaohui and Gu Ruoqing carefully emerged from a corner. Gu Ruoqing was desperately envious of Gu Qingyao's clothes.
"Mother, it's Gu Qingyao. It really is Gu Qingyao. She has such a good life now. We're both daughters of the Gu family, why should she have such a good life?"
One could discern the difference between them at a glance. Especially now, as society grew more affluent and more developed.
Gu Qingyao was clearly dressed like a girl from a wealthy family.
As for Mo Beihan, his opponent looked as if he was someone powerful, but Mo Beihan had just beat him up. This proved how capable he was. He was not afraid of anyone.
The poor boy in the Qing River Brigade, whom she had dismissed, could now bring Gu Qingyao to such a luxurious restaurant for dinner. Gu Ruoqing was consumed with envy at that thought.
But Zhang Xiaohui did not seem to have heard her. Her eyes were fixed on the direction in which Bai Youran had left.
The girl's surname was Bai, and she seemed about the same age as Gu Qingyao. More importantly, she bore some resemblance both to herself and Wang Guozhu. She might be her daughter!
At the moment, Zhang Xiaohui was incredibly excited. She had been in the capital for a while. She had not known the adoptive family and did not know much about them. She only knew that their surname was Bai and that they lived in the capital. She still remembered what the woman she had met so long ago looked like.
This Bai Youran might really be her daughter.
She just had to confirm that the adoptive mother was the one she had met in the past. Then she would be sure!
Chapter 799: Zhang Xiaohui Meets Bai Youran (5)
Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios
Zhang Xiaohui's imagination ran wild. With a daughter like that, her future was assured.
She excitedly dragged Gu Ruoqing away. "Come on, I'll treat you to a good meal. We'll be rich soon. We don't have to worry about money."
Today's environment was truly wonderful. As long as one had the money, many things were freely available for purchase.
There were many beautiful clothes from the southern provinces. They were available at stalls along the street, and cloth coupons were unnecessary. As long as she had money, she could buy as many pieces as she liked.
.
They had no income, so they had dipped into their savings on the way to the capital. Both Zhang Xiaohui and Gu Ruoqing were worried about how they would live in the future.
But their worries did not stop them from spending money. The Jin Jiang Restaurant was so famous, and all the diners were from high society. The mother and daughter also wanted to experience what it was like to be rich. Gu Ruoqing was wondering if she could catch some rich boy's eye and find true love here. Then she would not have to worry for the rest of her life!
Gu Ruoqing was startled when her mother excitedly offered to buy her a good meal. "Mother, that was Gu Qingyao and Mo Beihan! Why are you so indifferent?"
Zhang Xiaohui's steps paused. Her gaze was fixed on Bai Youran.
Gu Ruoqing continued her own line of thought. "It's so unfair. What does Gu Qingyao have? Why should she have such a good life? Mother, the Gu family must have become very rich for her, as a daughter, to have such a good life. Mother, let's go back! Anyway, Gu Qingyao is your daughter and my younger sister. It's only right that she should support us."
Zhang Xiaohui frowned and pondered whether this would be possible.
"What you're saying does make some sense. All right, we'll slowly think about it. Let's go and have a good meal first. Anyway, with the Gu family here, we don't have to worry about money. Let's go and have a good meal!"
1
Gu Ruoqing's eyes brightened. "Okay! I want to live like a rich young lady too."
...
Bai Youran went home and burst into tears.
They could not hide from the family that Bai Chi had been beaten up. When the Bai family found out that it was Mo Beihan who had beaten him, their expressions turned ugly.
Old Master Mo was in the study when he received a phone call from the Bai family's second son, Bai Jingcheng. He wanted to talk about what had happened today and demand an explanation for why Mo Beihan had beaten up Bai Chi.
Old Master Mo leisurely listened to the phone call. He smiled a little, but when he spoke, he did not pull his punches!
"Boy, you have some nerve! How dare you come and question me. Two men from the younger generation have a fight and you're interfering? Why? Are you trying to make trouble for the Mo family?"
Bai Jingcheng was so shocked that he broke out in a cold sweat.
His family did not have much standing in the Bai family. He only had an empty post and did not have much influence. But because of that, they placed even more emphasis on their honor.
They thought highly of themselves just because they were members of the powerful Bai family,
Bai Chi was one of the Bai family's grandchildren. He was the first to give the Bai family a great-grandchild. So, of course, Bai Jingcheng thought that he held a special place in the Bai family.
Now that he had been beaten up and by a country boy like Mo Beihan, he immediately called the Mo family to demand an explanation.
Bai Jingcheng was so angry that he was not thinking clearly. But the moment Old Master Mo questioned him, he immediately shrank back!
Old Master Mo grunted a little as he hung up. "That creature doesn't know his place. How dare you come yelping to me. I would even beat you up, much less your son. Hmph!"
Chapter 800: A Scolding From Old Master Bai (1)
Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios
Old Master Mo grumbled angrily as Mo Beihan entered.
The Old Master glanced at him. "You've learnt to beat someone up? You're quite something! Weren't you having a meal, why beat up that useless fellow?"
Mo Beihan smiled and explained what had happened. Old Master Mo was about to put on a haughty, grandfatherly air and reprimand his grandson, but he exploded in rage when he heard what happened!
"What? That bastard dared to look down on Yao Yao? That's my granddaughter-in-law. How dare a bastard like him look down on her? You only punched him twice? Are you even my grandson? Under the circumstances, you should just have destroyed him. Wow! This will be the death of me!"
Old Master Mo recalled that that fellow Bai Jingcheng even had the gall to question him. He grew even more infuriated. He wanted to grab his gun, rush over to the Bai House, and shoot them.
Old Master Mo collapsed into his chair in a rage. He glared at Mo Beihan.. He had expected better from him!
Mo Beihan tried to placate him. His grandfather was so hot-tempered!
"Grandfather, it's not my fault! Our Mo family is so much more powerful than the Bai family. I'm the eldest grandson of the Mo family. If I can't beat a playboy from the Bai family, it must be because you don't dote on me enough."
Old Master Mo: "..."
Shameless!
Old Master Mo gave him a sideways glance. "Don't tell you're just going to let it go."
Mo Beihan smiled briefly. "Of course not. The Bai family playboy dared to look down on your granddaughter-in-law. This is a stain on the Mo family honor! As the eldest grandson of the Mo family, I have to consider the Mo family's reputation. I can't just let it go, right?"
Old Master Mo: "..."
He wanted to stand up for his wife but managed to drag the Mo family's reputation into it. He was... really his grandson!
"What are you planning to do?"
A cold light flashed across Mo Beihan's eyes, but his expression remained the same. "Don't worry, Grandfather. I'll deal with it. I guarantee that the Mo family won't lose face. As for you! You're so old, don't worry so much!"
Old Master Mo's mouth twitched, but he did not say anything.
"When are you and Yao Yao planning to get married?"
Mo Beihan laughed. "Soon. I've already received news from overseas that Uncle Gu will be back in China soon. Then he will probably be preparing to marry Aunt Qiao. When their wedding is over, it will be my turn.
"I think around autumn this year!"
Autumn. The new year was over; autumn would be here soon.
Old Master Mo thought about it and nodded. "Alright, we still have a few months. Let's wait. We prepared everything for your wedding years ago. If anything is lacking, you can make up for it. Don't let anything slip."
"Also, didn't you say that Yao Yao's mother is Qiao Jewelry's chief executive? They must be very rich. We had better give a bigger wedding present so as not to offend them."
Mo Beihan smiled sweetly. "I understand. Don't worry, Grandfather, the wedding won't embarrass you."
Old Master Mo grunted. "Our Mo family's eldest grandson's wedding must not appear to be cheap. If you need anything, just speak up. Do you hear me?"
"Yes!"
The two of them chatted for a while before Mo Beihan went home.
When his grandson had gone, Old Master Mo angrily called the Bai House. Coincidentally, Old Master Bai had just returned, so he took the call.
Old Master Bai was not at home just now. He had just returned when Bai Jingcheng complained that Mo Beihan had beaten up Bai Chi. He had just figured out what had happened when Old Master Mo's call came. Old Master Mo's angry roars could be heard over the telephone line.