Chapter 341: You Can’t Even Save Yourself Now
Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios
Wen Xinya exited the partition to see that Madam Jiang was sitting on the couch with her mobile phone in hand, appearing extremely anxious. Meanwhile, Xia Ruya was seated beside her and comforting her gently, while Xia Ruxue and Jiang Yuqian were sitting side by side with their heads hung low.
Wen Xinya sat down on the couch slowly.
The few of them looked up at her.
Xia Ruxue turned as red as a tomato upon sight of Wen Xinya and sprung up from the couch. She hollered at Wen Xinya. “Wen Xinya, do you really think you can shirk the responsibility just because you’re pretending as if everything is alright? You were obviously the one who abducted Ruoyin.”
Glaring daggers at Xia Ruxue, Wen Xinya barked. “I didn’t abduct Jiang Ruoyin! What evidence have you got to accuse me of abducting Jiang Ruoyin? If you don’t have solid proof, I can sue you for slander.”
Jiang Yuqian scoffed. “Do we still need evidence for that? It’s only normal that you’d hire someone to abduct Ruoyin because you bear a grudge against her for embarrassing you in Lan Feng Institute.”
Uncle had already promised me to frame Wen Xinya. Given her status as the heiress of the Wen Family, her reputation would definitely be tarnished if she were to commit such a crime. Jiang Yuqian thought to herself.
Besides, the Jiang family and the Wen Family would definitely fall out. The Jiang family was not inferior at all, in terms of status and power. Hence, the Wen Family definitely wouldn’t tolerate Wen Xinya or spare her from punishment.
Xia Ruxue chimed in. “You used to be a gangster on the streets and you were detained by the police several times before. It’s not surprising that you would commit such an act.”
Wen Xinya’s face grew sullen and she said coldly, “Jiang Ruoyin is the heiress of the Jiang family which is an elite and wealthy family in the country. Perhaps, she has been abducted by some thugs.”
Xia Ruxue snapped angrily. “Ruoyin has already been missing for more than twenty hours. If her abductors were after money, they would have long called to extort for a ransom. However, there hasn’t been any news of Ruoyin yet. Even the police are guessing that she has been abducted because of a personal feud.”
Wen Xinya glanced at Jiang Yuqian and Xia Ruxue before retorting. “If it’s really a personal feud, shouldn’t the enemies of the Jiang family be greater suspects than us!?!”
Glowering at her, Jiang Yuqian said, “Quit all that clever talk. The police will investigate and get to the bottom of the truth. Nothing you say will make a difference.”
Xia Ruya looked up at Wen Xinya and said with slight displeasure in her eyes, “Xinya, if you’ve really kidnapped Ruoyin, just admit it! Aunt Jiang is very worried about Ruoyin.”
Wen Xinya shifted her gaze to Xia Ruya and quipped aloofly. “As I said, I didn’t kidnap Jiang Ruoyin. Are you deaf? Don’t you understand my words?”
Xia Ruya’s lips quivered slightly and she remained silent.
Unable to contain her anger, Xia Ruxue said indignantly, “Wen Xinya, this is the police station. Don’t be too arrogant. I’m asking you, where’s Jiang Ruoyin? Just what did you do to her?”
Glaring at Wen Xinya coldly, Jiang Yuqian said, “I suggest you’d better come clean about what you have done to Ruoyin. Otherwise, you won’t be able to escape the law even if you’re the daughter of the Wen Family.”
Seeing how confident Jiang Yuqian was, Wen Xinya snapped angrily. “As I said, this has nothing to do with me at all!”
Jiang Yuqian scoffed. “That’s for the police to decide. There’s no use even if you keep denying!”
“Oh, is that so?” Wen Xinya retorted. She quipped with a mirthless smirk. “Don’t you call the shots?”
Jiang Yuqian’s eye widened in shock and she wondered to herself if Wen Xinya had found out about anything. She glared at Wen Xinya to see that the latter had an icy cold gaze in her eyes. “I’m not the police. I obviously don’t have a say.”
Wen Xinya scowled at Jiang Yuqian and said, “You’re not the police, but your uncle is a policeman.”
Jiang Yuqian stared at Wen Xinya in disbelief and uncrossed her legs while her face grew sullen. She sprung up from her seat and screeched. “Wen Xinya, don’t you dare accuse me.”
“How am I accusing you? I didn’t say that you deliberately told your uncle to frame me and get me implicated. Why are you so worked up?” Wen Xinya questioned.
Jiang Yuqian stood rooted to the ground, at a complete loss for words.
Sensing that something was amiss, Xia Ruya quickly said, “Xinya, how could Inspector Wang possibly be Yuqian’s uncle? Don’t accuse Yuqian.”
Xia Ruxue recovered from the shock and interjected. “I think you’re just covering up for your own lies. That’s why you’re framing Yuqian instead! Yuqian and her mother have been relying on each other ever since she was a child. She doesn’t have an uncle!”
Wen Xinya raised her brows and said with an austere expression, “Like I said, if you have evidence to prove that I was the one who kidnapped Jiang Ruoyin, there’s nothing I can say. If you don’t, everything that you people have said today shall be used as proof of slander. I can take legal action against you, so I hope you’ll watch your mouth.”
Jiang Yuqian stared at Wen Xinya, who was smirking smugly. She scoffed. “Are you threatening us? Hah. Wen Xinya, get your facts right. We’re not reporters or paparazzi who come from humble backgrounds. You can’t manipulate us. You can’t even save yourself now and yet, you’re thinking of taking legal action against us. You’re so ridiculous it’s amusing!”
Uncle will definitely find a way to put the blame on Wen Xinya for the abduction of Ruoyin. Even if she didn’t actually abduct her, she would still have to bear the responsibility for it. Why should I be worried about being punished by the law? Jiang Yuqian thought to herself.
Xia Ruxue guffawed arrogantly. “Exactly. You want to take legal action against us? Sure! Wait till you’ve gotten yourself out of trouble! Hahahaha!”
Wen Xinya glared at Jiang Yuqian and Xia Ruxue menacingly before saying, “I hope you won’t regret what you’ve done today.”
A frown creased Wen Xinya’s forehead. She utterly detested the fact that Jiang Yuqian and Xia Ruxue were being manipulated by Xia Ruya. Hence, she could not be bothered to talk to them.
Chapter 342: Jaw-Jaw Is Better Than War-War
Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios
Madam Jiang, whose maiden name was Su Jinshan, quickly looked up and glared at Wen Xinya menacingly. She questioned, “Do you really have nothing to do with Ruoyin’s missing case?”
She suspected that Wen Xinya did not just abduct Jiang Ruoyin because of their conflict, for she knew that Jiang Ruoyin had once hired someone to abduct Wen Xinya. She did not stop Jiang Ruoyin back then because she wanted Wen Xinya to be taught a lesson.
Although Jiang Ruoyin kept everything a secret, she knew that Wen Xinya definitely wouldn’t sit back without taking revenge.
“Madam Jiang, I know you’re very upset and worried about your daughter who has gone missing, but I really didn’t abduct Miss Jiang,” said Wen Xinya, who was peeved to be asked the same question again even though she had already explained herself repeatedly. Although the Jiang and Wen families were now at odds with each other, Su Jinshan was still an elder, after all. Hence, she could not be as hostile and disrespectful to her as she was towards Jiang Yuqian and Xia Ruxue, especially since they belonged to the same upper-class social circle.
However, Su Jinshan was too worried to process Wen Xinya’s words. She grabbed Wen Xinya’s hand and said in a mellow voice, “Miss Wen, I know Ruoyin has hurt you before, but please don’t take it to heart and bear a grudge against her. Will you please let Ruoyin off on the account that I’m her mother!”
Su Jinshan’s palms were sweaty and clammy, thus causing Wen Xinya to feel uncomfortable. Unable to struggle out of her hands, she said helplessly, “Madam Jiang, regardless of whether you believe me or not, I really have nothing to do with the fact that Jiang Ruoyin is missing.”
Su Jinshan tightened her grip on Wen Xinya’s hand and said, “Miss Wen, Ruoyin has been missing for 25 hours. Please just let her off. We’ll take it as a lesson that you’ve taught her and won’t pursue the matter. Please tell me, where is she now?”
Feeling an excruciating pain in her palm she pushed Su Jinshan’s hand away and exclaimed, “Madam Jiang, I repeat, I have nothing to do with the fact that Miss Jiang has gone missing! Believe it or not, I really don’t know where she is!”
Noticing how anxious Su Jinshan was, Xia Ruya looked at Wen Xinya and pleaded. “Xinya, just take it that I’m begging you. Please just tell us where Ruoyin is. Aunt Jiang has already stayed awake for an entire day. She hasn’t eaten or drunk anything at all. She’s going to fall ill sooner or later. Just take it that you’re taking pity on us!”
Jiang Yuqian glared at Xia Ruya and said, “Ruya, don’t bother wasting your breath on her. She’s so vicious and ruthless. There’s no way she’d let Ruoyin off.”
Xia Ruxue chimed in. “Yuqian is right. If she has really abducted Ruoyin, why would she tell us where she is!?!”
Wen Xinya glared at Xia Ruya quietly.
Frightened by Wen Xinya’s stern gaze, Xia Ruya quickly looked away, not daring to make eye contact with her.
A sudden tension filled the air.
Glaring daggers at Wen Xinya, Su Jinshan snapped. “Wen Xinya, seems like you’re asking to be dealt with. Should anything happen to Ruoyin, neither you nor your family can bear the responsibility!”
Since Su Jinshan had shed all pretense of cordiality, Wen Xinya decided not to be nice to her, either. She sneered. “What do you mean? Madam Jiang, aren’t you just framing me because you think I’m young and that I’d be a pushover.”
Turning as pale as a sheet, Su Jinshan clipped. “I only spoke to you nicely because you’re young. You were the one who didn’t know any better. Don’t you say that I’m bullying you.”
Wen Xinya sneered. “Ah, turns out you were just pretending to be nice at the start, Madam Jiang.”
“Wen Xinya, you’d better tell me where Ruoyin is. If you do, I’ll take it that nothing happened. If you don’t, you’ll get it from me.” Su Jinshan warned. Having been in the corporate world for so many years, she had long gotten used to being dominant, and the people around her were often respectful and polite towards her, unlike Wen Xinya, who was rude and defiant.
Wen Xinya quipped with a sullen expression. “Madam Jiang, how are you going to teach me a lesson?”
Trembling from head to toe in exasperation, Su Jinshan wished she could give Wen Xinya a tight slap. “Just what do you want?”
Wen Xinya questioned coldly, “Madam Jiang, how are you so sure that I was the one who abducted Jiang Ruoyin?”
Su Jinshan is a domineering career-minded woman who can think rationally and has great analytical skills. Why did she agree with Jiang Yuqian and the rest and insist that I am the one who abducted her?
Wen Xinya was puzzled and wanted to get to the bottom of the truth.
Su Jinshan was worried sick about her daughter and could no longer think straight. She flew into a rage and barked. “Because Ruoyin hired someone…”
She turned pale and quickly ended her sentence. Things had become extremely chaotic.
Wen Xinya screeched. “Madam Jiang, I’ll finish your sentence for you!”
“Wen Xinya, there are some things that you shouldn’t say. I’m sure your family has taught you how to act appropriately. You’d better think twice before you speak,” Su Jinshan said with an increasingly sullen expression. If Wen Xinya were to expose what Jiang Ruoyin had done, the Jiang and Wen families would definitely fall out completely.
“Oh? Are you threatening me now, Madam Jiang? My grandfather has taught me that the Wen Family’s power is not to be challenged casually. Madam Jiang, aren’t you just testing the Wen Family’s power by threatening me?”
Although the four elite families of the nation seemed to be at peace with each other on the surface, they were in fact, all at odds with each other. For example, the Xiao Family’s attempt at delving into the luxury brands market was a clear threat to the Wen Family’s interests. The Gu family had always been independent and the Wen Family would need the help of the Jiang family to deal with the Xiao Family.
Su Jinshan was certain that Wen Xinya was aware of the internal conflict and struggles that her family faced. Hence, the reason why she dared to threaten her. To her astonishment, Wen Xinya was not frightened by her threats at all.
Was Wen Xinya simply being too naive and overly confident or did she just disregard the Jiang family?
Chapter 343: Qiu Yifan Intervenes and Shows His Authority
Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios
Wen Xinya said coldly, “It’s because Jiang Ruoyin has once hired someone to abduct me. That’s why you’re so certain that I was the one who abducted her to take revenge. That’s why you think I’m paying her back in her own coin!”
Su Jinshan turned as pale as a ghost.
Wen Xinya stared at Su Jinshan and quipped. “Madam Jiang, aren’t I right?”
Su Jinshan was completely speechless.
Xia Ruya, Jiang Yuqian, and Xia Ruxue were not aware that Jiang Ruoyin had once tried to abduct Wen Xinya. They looked at each other in shock and dismay.
Wen Xinya looked at Su Jinshan and sneered. “Madam Jiang, you’ve really belittled me. I’ve always taken revenge where it’s due, but I’ll never resort to any underhanded means or backstab others.”
“What did you do to Ruoyin?” Su Jinshan asked. Wen Xinya’s words had struck a sour note within her. She quivered uncontrollably from head to toe, staring at Wen Xinya in disbelief.
Recalling the way Jiang Ruoyin would react whenever she asked her about the kidnapping of Wen Xinya, Su Jinshan finally realized that it was because Jiang Ruoyin had been subdued by Wen Xinya.
Wen Xinya grinned widely and said, “There are lots of people here, it’s not convenient for me to tell you the details now. Madam Jiang, you can wait until Miss Jiang is back to ask her… just what happened that day!”
Wen Xinya decided to retaliate, for she was no pushover.
Wen Xinya still remembered the time in Lan Feng Institute where Su Jinshan put on airs and threatened her. She thought to herself, Su Jinshan is acting so haughty merely because she’s belittling me. She thinks that I’m a pushover because I have been estranged from my family for fifteen years. If I don’t retaliate, she’ll repeat herself and trample on me again and again… I’m Miss Wen, the heiress of the Wen Family. How can I let someone walk all over me?
“Wen Xinya, you’d better not go overboard.” Su Jinshan barked, clenching her jaw and exposing her straight rows of pearly whites. The sounds of her teeth gnashing send cold shivers down the spines of everyone else around her.
Wen Xinya said calmly, “Madam Jiang, you’re the one who’s pushing me over the edge. Like I said countless times before, I have nothing to do with Miss Jiang’s missing case. Yet, you’re so overbearing and insistent on shifting the blame to me.”
Su Jinshan’s gums had begun bleeding, and the blood was seeping out of the gaps in her teeth. She completely believed that Wen Xinya had nothing to do with Jiang Ruoyin’s missing case.
Qiu Yifan entered and strode towards them with his briefcase.
Wang Hanjie’s heart dropped, for he could tell that Qiu Yifan was a lawyer.
Qiu Yifan walked towards Wen Xinya and asked softly, “Are you alright?”
Shaking her head, Wen Xinya answered, “I’m Miss Wen, there’s nothing they can do to me!”
After understanding the situation, Qiu Yifan walked towards Wang Hanjie and said coldly, “Hello, Chief Wang. I’m Qiu Yifan, Miss Wen Xinya’s representing lawyer. If there’s anything you need to know, you may ask me directly. I’ll answer all questions regarding the case.”
“Hello, Mr. Qiu!” exclaimed Wang Hanjie, who turned pale instantly, well aware of who Qiu Yifan was. He was shocked that Wen Xinya could get a powerhouse of the legislature industry to represent her.
Qiu Yifan nodded and continued, “According to Rule 193 of the Z Nation law, all underage citizens have to be accompanied by a legal adult during interrogations, and the guardian and parent of the underage subject have to be informed beforehand. Chief Wang, you’ve already broken the law by bringing my client to the police station without informing her family.”
“Mr. Qiu, this is all a misunderstanding. We were just eager to get some leads because Miss Jiang Ruoyin has been missing for more than twenty hours. That’s why I forgot about the standard protocol. Please forgive me, Mr. Qiu. After all, a life is at stake,” said Wang Hanjie, who did not expect Qiu Yifan to display his authority so soon.
However, Qiu Yifan ignored him and said composedly, “My client Miss Wen has mentioned that you pinned her as the prime suspect without any concrete evidence of eyewitnesses. Hence, I’ll have to look at the interrogation’s footage.”
Dumbstruck, Wang Hanjie said, “Mr. Qiu, pardon me for this, but those are confidential information.”
Having already expected him to say that, Qiu Yifan answered, “My client is only assisting with the investigations, and she’s not the prime suspect. Besides, Miss Wen has already handed this case over to me. I have the right to check the interrogation’s footage.”
Unable to find another excuse to turn him down, Wang Hanjie said, “Mr. Qiu, I had no intention of offending Miss Wen, please be understanding towards the difficulties that we, the police, face while solving cases. It’s sometimes mandatory to apply some other methods to find some leads. We definitely didn’t mean to infringe Miss Wen’s personal rights.”
Qiu Yifan insisted. “Chief Wang, I’ll have to watch the footage before I can deduce the truth.”
Despite being petrified, Wang Hanjie did not take Qiu Yifan to the interrogation room to watch the interrogation’s footage.
Qiu Yifan stared at him and said with a straight face, “If you refuse to cooperate with me, I’ll have no choice but to call Old Mr. Mo or Old Mr. Wen and get them to intervene. After all, I believe they have the power to influence the Bureau Chief to step in.”
“Please don’t do that. This is only a minor understanding, there’s no need to blow things up. The police are very busy every day, and we shouldn’t disturb Old Mr. Wen because of such a trivial matter.” Wang Hanjie pleaded, overwhelmed with fear and anxiety. He found that he was being too naive and had made a major mistake by letting himself be coerced into committing a crime. He was too preoccupied with coveting the position of Head of Southern District and had done that in a moment of folly.
He had underestimated Wen Xinya’s abilities, for he thought that there was nothing she could do since she was just an underage teenager. So what if she’s from the Wen Family? My brother-in-law is a government official, he thought. Yet, he had never expected that Wen Xinya would be such a tough nut to crack.
Qiu Yifan demanded. “I’ll find out if it’s all a misunderstanding after watching the interrogation’s footage. So, please show them to me.”
Wang Hanjie cursed and swore at Qiu Yifan in his head before reluctantly taking him to the interrogation room that he and Wen Xinya were in just now.
Chapter 344: Si Yiyan Has Been Alarmed
Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios
At the same time, Zhou Tianyu, Xu Tongxuan, and Gu Junling rushed to the police station. Upon sight of Wen Xinya sitting on the couch, they heaved a sigh of relief.
“Xinya, are you alright? Why were you brought to the police station for no reason?” Zhou Tianyu frantically asked while walking towards her. She took a glance at Su Jinshan, Xia Ruya, Xia Ruxue, and Jiang Yuqian and could vaguely guess they had something to do with the matter.
Noticing that Wen Xinya seemed to be alright, Xu Tongxuan felt much more relieved and said, “Good that you’re fine. We were scared soulless when we heard that you were brought away by the police.”
Gu Junling said with a frown, “You didn’t break the law or commit a crime. Why were you brought to the police station?”
Wen Xinya finally found the chance to speak. “Jiang Ruoyin went missing and I was brought to the police station to assist in investigations because I had a major conflict with her in the past.”
“What? Jiang Ruoyin has gone missing!?!” Zhou Tianyu asked in disbelief.
Wen Xinya nodded without uttering a word.
Upon hearing the footsteps coming from outside the door, Wen Xinya looked at the door, only to receive a great shock.
It turned out to be Gu Yuehan!
Even Si Yiyan had been alarmed.
Wen Xinya placed an arm on her forehead.
Clad in a navy blue shirt and a tie, Gu Yuehan walked towards them together with a middle-aged man.
The middle-aged man was extremely respectful and polite towards them. He spoke to them continuously while Gu Yuehan remained silent without uttering a single word.
Having recognized Gu Yuehan, Zhou Tianyu said with a slight frown on her face, “Why is that man whom we met at the hospital here?”
Wen Xinya kept quiet.
Gu Junling shot Wen Xinya a glance.
Seemingly extremely curious about Gu Yuehan, Xu Tongxuan tugged Zhou Tianyu’s sleeve and asked, “Do you know him, too? Who is he? He seems so mysterious!”
Zhou Tianyu described everything that had happened in the hospital to Xu Tongxuan.
The two of them entered. Upon sight of the middle-aged man, the policemen in greeted in shock. “Bureau… Bureau Chief!”
After showing the interrogation’s footage to Qiu Yifan, Wang Hanjie exited the room. The moment he saw the Bureau Chief, he hurriedly clasped his hands and greeted politely. “Bureau Chief, what brings you here today? Do you have any new instructions for us? Leave it to us to handle. I’ll definitely do a good job and meet your satisfaction.”
“Hmph!” Bureau Chief Li humphed in disdain towards Wang Hanjie.
Wang Hanjie’s face stiffened and he cursed in his head, All this old fogy does is look down on me and put on airs. One day, I’ll replace you and make you bow down to me.
Jiang Yuqian, Xia Ruya, and Xia Ruxue were shocked out of their senses. Is this the Bureau Chief of the Southern District? Is he here because of Jiang Ruoyin’s case? Seems like the Jiang family really commands a lot of power.
Su Jinshan clearly recognized who he was. Hence, she hurriedly stood up and greeted him. “Bureau Chief Li, I’m so sorry. I didn’t expect you to be alarmed about my daughter’s missing case.”
Su Jinshan extended her hand smilingly in a bid to shake his hand.
However, Bureau Chief Li looked at Gu Yuehan and said, “Mr. Gu, I can’t believe there are still people who’d go against the rules and bring Miss Wen to the police station forcefully. I’ll definitely give you an explanation for that.”
Everyone was shocked to hear Bureau Chief Li’s words. It turns out he was not there for Jiang Ruoyin’s case but rather, to stand up for Wen Xinya.
Who’s that man beside Bureau Chief Li? Why does Bureau Chief Li have to show him so much respect?
How did Wen Xinya have that much honor? Could it be because of Old Mr. Mo?
Wang Hanjie was flabbergasted, and his mind went blank after hearing the Bureau Chief Li’s words, which sent cold shivers down his spine. He finally realized that he had messed with the wrong person.
Greatly taken aback by what Bureau Chief Li said, Su Jinshan forgot to retract her hand. By the time she recovered from the shock, she discovered that she was stuck in a dilemma of whether or not to retract her hand. She froze in shock, at a complete loss for what to do.
She actually shamelessly thought that Bureau Chief Li had intervened on the account of the Jiang Family, and was trying to help expedite the investigations for Jiang Ruoyin’s case.
She was instantly overwhelmed with embarrassment, feeling as if she had never been so awkward before.
Gu Yuehan glanced at Wen Xinya before saying to Bureau Chief Li, “I’ve spoken to the Head Superintendent previously and I believe he has already instructed you to give me an explanation for this.”
Gu Yuehan’s words gave everyone a huge shock. They could not help but wonder who he was, for he could actually contact the Head Superintendent.
Wen Xinya knew that the Xiasi Group had always been in close contact and cooperation with the government and hence, they could communicate with the political leaders, what more a mere superintendent.
Bureau Chief Li broke out into cold sweat. Patting his forehead with a handkerchief, he said nervously, “Yes, yes, yes! I’ll definitely give you a reasonable answer for this.”
Gu Yuehan nodded and remained silent.
Bureau Chief Li hurriedly walked towards Wen Xinya and said softly, “Miss Wen, I’m very sorry about what happened. My subordinate was too careless to have put the blame on you and made you the prime suspect without any evidence or proof. Don’t worry, I’ll definitely give you an appropriate answer and explanation.”
Wen Xinya smiled and answered, “You don’t have to stand on ceremony with me, Bureau Chief Li. You have lots of subordinates, and given how busy you are with supervising the entire Southern District, there are bound to be some subordinates who don’t act in accordance to the rules. I can understand.”
Wen Xinya did not bother saving any face for Wang Hanjie at all. Being sharp and intelligent, Bureau Chief Li knew exactly what she meant. He immediately glared at Wang Hanjie, who was staring at him, and said, “Hurry and apologize to Miss Wen.”
“Miss Wen, I’m sorry to have offended you because of my lack of sensitivity and awareness. Please be magnanimous and forgive me!” Wang Hanjie pleaded meekly, no longer as snobbish and haughty as he was just now.
Wen Xinya said coldly, “Don’t make it sound so serious, Chief Wang. My lawyer gets to decide what to do about the matter about you bringing me to the hospital for interrogations. It’s not for me to say.”
In other words, she would be pursuing the matter. Wang Hanjie turned as pale as a sheet and his legs turned into jelly, almost collapsing onto the ground. He had been through so much painstaking means to get to his position. In a few more years, he would become the Bureau Chief. However, he suddenly felt that all his dreams were turning to dust.
Chapter 345: You Have to Apologize to Miss Wen on the Spot
Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios
Bureau Chief Li rolled his eyes in disdain towards Wang Hanjie, who had become cocky and disrespectful just because he had the support of Jiang Wenzhe. Bureau Chief Li thought to himself, Serves Wang Hanjie right for offending Wen Xinya. Doesn’t he know that she has Ninth Young Master backing her up? Who’d even dare to offend the wealthy and powerful Wen family? Besides, she also has the formidable Old Mr. Mo as her grandfather. Wang Hanjie is really silly. Does he think he can rule the world just because he has Jiang Wenzhe to support him? What a joke.
Meanwhile, Jiang Yuqian was dumbfounded by the sight before her. Even her father had to show respect to Bureau Chief Li. Yet, Wen Xinya actually managed to make him swallow his pride and apologize to her in front of everyone.
No… this is impossible!
My eyes must have been playing tricks on me.
No matter how mighty the Wen Family may be, they’re just merchants. How could they compare to the Zhang family?
Xia Ruxue could not believe her eyes, either.
Xia Ruya stared at Wen Xinya, who was standing at a spot not too far away from her. She thought, Wen Xinya has Miss Zhou who is from a family of politicians, the authoritative heiress of the Xu Family, the successor of the Gu Family, the powerful Bureau Chief Li who holds a high position, as well as a mysterious Mr. Gu to back her up…
Even when I was the respected daughter of the Wen family, I could never mingle in Zhou Tianyu’s social circle! I had at most socialized with other elite families like the Jiang and Xiao Familes.
The sudden discovery caused her to be overwhelmed with fear and and terror.
She clenched her fists tightly, causing her sharp nails to dig into the flesh on her palm. However, the physical pain was nowhere comparable to the excruciating emotional pain that she was plagued with.
Su Jinshan was flabbergasted beyond words. She had truly belittled Wen Xinya by thinking that she was weak and powerless because she had led a wandering life for fifteen years, and had fallen out with her. In hindsight, she realized that she was again at the losing end, just like during her previous conflict with Wen Xinya. She only figured out now that Wen Xinya must be scheming and shrewd. Otherwise, she definitely wouldn’t have been able to get into Old Mr. Wen’s good books.
Having encountered all sorts of situations, she quickly snapped out of her trance and regained her composure. She then walked towards Bureau Chief Li gracefully and asked worriedly, “Bureau Chief Li, are there any leads to my daughter’s case?”
Bureau Chief Li stared at Su Jinshan coldly and said proudly, “We’ve already found some leads, all thanks to Mr. Gu’s help. I reckon there’ll be results soon!”
Su Jinshan stared at Gu Yuehan in utter surprise, for she did not expect that he would help her look for Jiang Ruoyin. She quickly smiled and thanked him. “Mr. Gu, thank you so much for being willing to help me. I’d like to express my gratitude on behalf of the Jiang family.”
She obviously had to suck up to someone whom Bureau Chief Li regarded highly of, and hence, tried to sound as sincere as she could.
Gu Yuehan stared at her calmly and said, “I didn’t help you for nothing. There’s a price to pay.”
It would be a good thing for the Jiang family to be associated with such an influential figure of status. Su Jinshan hurriedly said, “Regardless of what the price may be, we’ll pay it so long as it’s within my means.”
Gu Yuehan looked at Wen Xinya and said, “If I find Jiang Ruoyin and prove Miss Wen’s innocence, you’ll have to apologize to Miss Wen in front of everyone.”
Su Jinshan’s face stiffened, at a complete loss for words. How can I possibly apologize to this prepubescent lass? I’m the glorious Madam Jiang of the Jiang family. Besides, I’ve already fallen out with Wen Xinya. Wouldn’t I be shooting myself in the foot by apologizing to her?
Gu Yuehan looked at Su Jinshan and asked, “Madam, is that beyond your means? Didn’t you say that you’d definitely try your best to pay the price? Am I asking for too much?”
Su Jinshan instantly turned beet red and began stammering.
Bureau Chief Li said to Su Jinshan, “Madam Jiang, I suggest you concede to Mr. Gu’s request. To be honest with you, the police haven’t found out anything about your daughter’s whereabouts, but Mr. Gu already has some leads.”
Su Jinshan turned as pale as a ghost. She finally understood that Gu Yuehan had come for Wen Xinya.
Bureau Chief Li continued, “I heard that your daughter enjoys boasting and showing off her riches. That’s how she caught the attention of those money-hungry thugs who decided to abduct her. Those people are no saints, and they’re definitely ruthless.”
Su Jinshan’s eyes widened in terror and she asked, “Didn’t the police say that the abductors have abducted my daughter because of a personal feud? My daughter has been missing for so long. Why haven’t we received any calls from them yet? They should be calling to ask for a ransom.”
Bureau Chief Li said, “Those thugs are the best at the waiting game. The longer they wait to make the extortion, the easier it is for them to get the ransom.”
Gu Yuehan walked past Su Jinshan and stopped in front of Wen Xinya. “Let’s go, Ninth Young Master is waiting for you outside.”
Wen Xinya asked in shock, “He’s here, too?”
Gu Yuehan nodded and explained, “Yes, he rushed here the moment we received the news. However, it wasn’t convenient for him to enter, so he’s been waiting outside while I came in to handle some matters.”
Wen Xinya was filled with a mix of emotions. Si Yiyan had never meddled with her work affairs and would make sure to keep a distance even when he was helping her out. However, he had intervened in her personal matter this time. Yet, she did not find it repulsive at all. Instead, she was rather delighted by his sweet gesture.
After all, there was nothing she could do about Su Jinshan’s repeated threats, despite being a member of the Wen Family. However, he had stood up for her by stepping in and making Su Jinshan apologize to her.
Bureau Chief Li’s words had diminished all of Su Jinshan’s hopes. Noticing that Gu Yuehan was about to leave, she looked at him and said, “Mr. Gu, I promise I’ll apologize. Please help me save my daughter.”
Instead of looking at her, Gu Yuehan said to Wen Xinya, “Seems like we’ll have to stay here for a while longer.”
Wen Xinya shrugged and said, “Doesn’t matter.”
Gu Yuehan whipped out his mobile phone to make a call and hung up after saying a few words. He then said to Su Jinshan, “Your daughter will be sent to the police station in half an hour’s time. I hope you’ll keep your promise. If you go back on your word, then you’d better prepare to get angry.”
Su Jinshan turned pale, finally realizing that there was more to this mysterious Mr. Gu than met the eye.
Chapter 346: Let’s Just Wait and See
Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios
Half an hour later, the sounds of car brakes screeching could be heard coming from the door. Su Jinshan stood up from the couch agitatedly and sprinted towards the door. As soon as she reached there, a man clad in a black suit entered together with Jiang Ruoyin.
Apart from Jiang Ruoyin’s unkempt hair and tattered clothes, she did not appear to have suffered any major injuries. However, she had a deadpan expression on her pale face and had clearly received a great shock.
Su Jinshan frantically stepped forward and pulled Jiang Ruoyin into her embrace. “Ruoyin, good that you’re alright. You’ve scared me!”
Jiang Ruoyin blinked and looked at her mother. Upon sight of the agitation, joy and worry appeared in her eyes. Jiang Ruoyin seemed to have snapped out of her trance and was suddenly overwhelmed with emotions that had finally found an outlet. She hugged her mother tightly and began bawling at the top of her lungs. “Mother… I… I’m terrified…”
Patting her back continuously in a bid to comfort her, Su Jinshan said, “My poor child. Don’t be afraid. Everything is alright now. I’m here with you. No one will hurt you…”
Jiang Ruoyin wept in agony as if she had been treated unfairly. Teardrops streamed down the aggrieved her face uncontrollably and caused her shirt to be drenched.
Su Jinshan continued to comfort her patiently.
Wen Xinya was rather touched by the sight before her. Mothers were the safe havens of their children. Regardless of how much pain and hardship children have been through, they could always seek refuge and emotional peace in the comfort and warmth of their mother’s embrace.
Tears welled up in Wen Xinya’s eyes and she began to feel a little envious.
Jiang Ruoyin stopped crying and sat down on the couch with the guidance of Su Jinshan. Xia Ruya quickly placed some pillows behind her back. Su Jinshan then stood up to pour Jiang Ruoyin a glass of water while Xia Ruxue grabbed some tissue for her to wipe her tears.
Xia Ruya frantically said, “Aunt Jiang, Ruoyin may not be injured, but she’s definitely traumatized. We’d better take her to the hospital for a checkup!”
“You’re such a thoughtful child. I actually forgot about that,” said Su Jinshan, who was heartened to see that Xia Ruya was extremely concerned about Su Jinshan. Comparing her to the overbearing and tyrannical Wen Xinya, Su Jinshan could not help but feel repulsed by Wen Xinya. In fact, she had taken a liking to Xia Ruya.
Xia Ruya lowered her head in embarrassment and said, “I’m just worried about Ruoyin.”
Jiang Yuqian and Xia Ruxue frantically expressed their intentions to head to the hospital together with Jiang Ruoyin.
After coming to a consensus, they helped Jiang Ruoyin up in a bid to leave.
Gu Yuehan raised his voice and said, “Madam Jiang, please don’t forget the pact we made earlier on. Do I have to remind you, Madam Jiang?”
Su Jinshan froze in shock. How could she have possibly forgotten? She was deliberately planning to use the visit to the hospital as an excuse to distract Gu Yuehan, in hopes that he’d forget about it. Yet, he actually remembered it. After all, she had already made a promise and would only be embarrassing herself if she were to go back on her word. Besides, she had no idea how capable Gu Yuehan was exactly, though she had an ominous feeling.
She had no choice but to turn around and say with a forced smile, “Mr. Gu, why would I go back on my word? It just slipped my mind for a while because I was too concerned about my daughter’s health.”
Xia Ruya hurriedly said softly, “Xinya, this is only a misunderstanding. Aunt Jiang just loves her daughter too much and was too worried about her. That’s why she mistook you for the person who abducted Ruoyin. Look at Ruoyin… she had a close shave with death and hasn’t spoken a complete sentence yet. I’m very worried about her, we must take her to the hospital for a checkup now. Can we talk about the apology later?”
Later simply meant never! Su Jinshan looked at Xia Ruya with an expression that was much gentler before. However, Wen Xinya was the key deciding factor in whether or not she had to make the apology. However, she had already fallen out with Wen Xinya and hence, she simply could not bring herself to be thick-skinned and apologize to her. Unlike Xia Ruya, Wen Xinya’s heart would not soften, and she would not give in even after hearing that Madam Jiang was rushing to send Jiang Ruoyin to the hospital.
Even if Wen Xinya refused to let Madam Jiang go without apologizing, it would only reflect badly on Wen Xinya and she would be seen as a cold and unfeeling person.
Wen Xinya glared at Xia Ruya coldly and quipped. “Xia Ruya, what kind of logic is that? Does an apology require that much time? Besides… I’m someone else’s daughter, too, and my pride is worth as much as Jiang Ruoyin’s. Madam Jiang casually accused me just because her daughter went missing. Was she bullying me because my mother passed away early and I don’t have anyone to stand up for me?”
“Xinya… that’s not what I meant!” Xia Ruya exclaimed with bewilderment written all over her face.
Su Jinshan froze in shock, for she did not expect that Wen Xinya would say such words. She could sense that all eyes were on her. She suddenly recalled how she behaved when she was threatening Wen Xinya in plain sight. Her plan to use Jiang Ruoyin as an excuse to avoid making an apology would fail so long as Wen Xinya refused to concede.
Feeling extremely unjustified, Xia Ruxue glowered at Wen Xinya and hollered. “Wen Xinya, have you got any sympathy at all? Ruoyin survived a close ordeal and yet you’re still driving them into a corner. Aren’t you going overboard!?!”
Overwhelmed with exasperation, Jiang Yuqian barked. “It’s just a minor misunderstanding, and now that the misunderstanding is cleared, how could you have the cheek to make Aunt Jiang apologize to you? Mind you, she’s your elder!”
Wen Xinya sneered. “Why didn’t you guys consider the fact that the tables would turn when you people were maligning me and driving me into a corner?”
They were rendered speechless.
Wen Xinya shifted her gaze onto Su Jinshan and gibed mockingly. “Madam Jiang, I know you’ve built a reputation for yourself in the corporate world through lots of hardship. You must treasure your reputation and weigh the pros and cons. Don’t ruin your own future. If word about this matter spreads, how would others view you? You’re going to be seen as an untrustworthy person who goes back on her words. It’d be a major blow to the Jiang family’s reputation!”
Credibility was the most important quality that businessmen valued. A lump formed in Su Jinshan’s throat—she felt as if Wen Xinya was strangling her. She swallowed her pride and blurted out. “Miss Wen, I was wrong to have maligned you for kidnapping my daughter. I hope you won’t hold it against me!”
Wen Xinya’s smile grew wider and she said with raised brows, “Since you’re so sincere in apologizing, I should be understanding. I can understand that you were just too concerned about your beloved daughter.”
Su Jinshan’s face turned pale and she glowered at Wen Xinya menacingly. “Wen Xinya, the ties between the Jiang family and Wen Family are completely broken from today onwards.”
Wen Xinya sneered. “Madam Jiang, did you forget that all ties between our families have already been broken when my family ceased all partnerships with the Jiang family?”
Gritting her teeth and guffawing sinisterly, Su Jinshan exclaimed, “In that case, Miss Wen, we shall wait and see!”
Chapter 347: It Was Just a Slip of the Tongue
Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios
After Su Jinshan and the rest left, Gu Yuehan bid Wen Xinya goodbye before leaving as well while Bureau Chief Li followed closely behind him. Thus, Wen Xinya was left alone in the police station with the rest of her friends.
Staring in disdain as Su Jinshan and the rest left, Xu Tongxuan remarked. “This Su Jinshan is really making such a big deal out of herself. The Jiang family has long lost most of their power. If it weren’t for the Wen Family’s support and assistance, how could they possibly stay as one of the four major families?”
The Xu family was in close contact with the National Security Department and hence, Xu Tongxuan was rather clear about the events that took place.
Zhou Tianyu said cynically, “She’s just throwing her weight around because she’s a member of the Jiang family. She’s only been a businesswoman for a few years and yet has already forgotten who she really is. Does she really think she can speak for the Jiang family? Besides, the four major families may seem to be in harmony on the surface, but there are lots of internal conflicts, and the relationships between the families have long been strained. She was just making that statement for the thrill of it!”
Gu Junling remarked. “That may be the case, but a starving camel is still bigger than a horse, and the superior will always outdo the inferior. The Jiang family may be less powerful than they were, but they’re not to be belittled. Although Old Mr. Wen has already ceased partnerships with the Jiang family, everyone knows that the Jiang family has been relying on the Wen Family to stay as one of the four major families. Now that the two families have fallen out, I’m worried that the Jiang family might collude with the Xiao Family to deal with the Wen Family.”
Wen Xinya had obviously already guessed it. However, she did not find it a pity at all. “The Jiang family is too arrogant, condescending, and fickle. Since we’ve fallen out with them, so be it. At least we don’t have to worry about being backstabbed by the Jiang Family.”
Gu Junling nodded in agreement before saying, “However, I still think you need to inform your father and Old Mr. Wen.”
Wen Xinya said, “The person who initiated the cooperation and established the partnership with the Jiang family was my father. My grandfather probably knows that the Jiang Family is scheming and that the partnership is not going to be substantial. Although he did not intervene on the surface, he’s never allowed the Jiang family to be involved in the core businesses of Wen Corporation. That’s why Grandpa could quickly terminate the partnership with the Jiang family when Jiang Ruoyin and I got into a conflict back then. That did not result in many losses, either.”
Gu Junling clapped his hands and remarked in awe of Old Mr. Wen. “The older, the wiser indeed. Old Mr. Wen may have already retired, but he’s been keeping the entire Wen Corporation together.”
Wen Xinya burst into laughter and said, “I know what my grandfather is thinking. That’s why he doesn’t have that many qualms and considerations when dealing with the Jiang family.”
Still feeling worried, Xu Tongxuan said, “That may be the case, but things would definitely get tricky if the Jiang family and the Xiao Family work together to defeat the Wen Family!”
Zhou Tianyu did not know much about business. However, she was aware of the four major families. She patted Gu Junling’s shoulder and said, “What are you worried about? The Xiao Family and Jiang Family may work together, but the Gu Family and Wen Family can do so, too!”
Smiling wryly, Gu Junling said, “I may be the future successor of the Gu family, but I still don’t have control over the family yet, and I’m in no place to decide which policy they take. However, if the Jiang Family and Xiao Family are really going to gang up against the Wen Family, I doubt my family would leave them in the lurch. After all, the Xiao Family is overly ambitious. My family wouldn’t allow them to pose a threat to our interests.”
Wen Xinya smiled and said, “Exactly. My grandfather has been a businessman for years and is very experienced. He’s been focusing entirely on expanding our family business while refraining from posing a threat to the interests of the other families. Hence, the Gu family turned a blind eye when the Wen Family and Jiang Family worked together against the Xiao Family. However, it’s different for the Xiao Family. They’re very capable, to begin with, and they’re extremely greedy and ambitious as well. They’re a threat to the Gu family. Hence, the Gu Family definitely won’t sit back and do nothing.”
Zhou Tianyu said in a moment of enlightenment, “No wonder you completely disregarded the Jiang family. Turns out you’ve already had your own plans in mind. So much for being worried about you all day.”
Xu Tongxuan said, “That may be the case, but the Gu family probably won’t interfere if the Xiao Family doesn’t pose a threat to the Gu Family.”
Wen Xinya said calmly, “The Gu family doesn’t have to attack the Xiao Family openly. They just have to make a few interventions here and there. I definitely wouldn’t let the Xiao Family harm us.”
Gu Junling stared at Wen Xinya in astonishment and asked, “Do you have a solution to deal with the Xiao Family?”
Wen Xinya answered, “I do have a solution, but I don’t know if it will work out.”
The fact that Wen Xinya could say that simply meant that she was rather confident it would work. “No wonder you were so dauntless. Turns out you already had plans!”
Wen Xinya remained silent and smiled.
After chatting for a while, Zhou Tianyu looked at Wen Xinya and asked, “Xinya, how are you related to that Mr. Gu? He doesn’t seem like a simple person at all. In fact, he seems to be one who deals with things through underhanded means.”
Xu Tongxuan agreed. “He doesn’t give off a good vibe. He should have been through lots of different encounters and bloodshed. You should avoid people like him. Otherwise, he might just land you in trouble.”
Wen Xinya explained smilingly, “He’s the assistant-cum-bodyguard of one of my grandfather’s apprentices. He has a special identity, but he’s not a crook. Don’t worry.”
Staring at Wen Xinya, Gu Junling asked, “Is that apprentice the mysterious person who picked you up from school in a custom-made car? Are you guys close?”
Wen Xinya answered with a nod, “Yes, it’s him! He lived with my grandfather for a period of time and taught me some chess and calligraphy. Hence, I’m rather close to him.”
Gu Junling nodded and refrained from probing further since it was Wen Xinya’s personal affair. As a friend, it was not appropriate to poke his nose into her private life.
However, Zhou Tianyu and Xu Tongxuan were still a little worried.
Gu Junling jested smilingly. “What are you guys worried about? That man could command the respect of Bureau Chief Li, the formidable chief of the Southern District. That means he’s in close contact with the government and is not some illegal crook. Xinya should be safe.”
After all, the Gu Family had connections with the mafia and the government. Hence, Gu Junling definitely knew more than they did. Zhou Tianyu heaved a sigh of relief and said, “You’re right. I was worried for nothing. I don’t know why, but I had an ominous feeling when I saw him.”
Wen Xinya held her hand and said, “Don’t worry, I know what to do. I won’t put myself in a dangerous situation.”
Wen Xinya understood Zhou Tianyu’s concerns. She only found out the day after she got kidnapped that Si Yiyan had gone through painstaking means to save her. He was staying in the room beside hers and he had been assassinated thrice. There was bloodshed that night, and Zhou Tianyu happened to chance upon a bloodstained Gu Yuehan. Hence, Zhou Tianyu was extremely worried and terrified.
Zhou Tianyu nodded and remained silent.
Chapter 348: If You Promise to Be Loyal, I Promise to Never Leave You!
Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios
It was already six o’clock by the time they left the police station. Gu Junling suggested that they have dinner together. However, Wen Xinya turned him down tactfully because she was thinking of Si Yiyan, who was waiting for her. After several failed attempts at talking her around, they had no choice but to part ways with her.
After they left, Si Yiyan pulled over beside her in his gray Porsche Cayenne.
Wen Xinya smiled gleefully and got inside the car.
Si Yiyan increased the temperature of the air conditioner in the car and asked, “What would you like to have for dinner?”
Feeling warmed up, Wen Xinya grinned and said, “I want to have some hotpot. Warm and spicy foods are the best during winter.”
Staring at her affectionately, Si Yiyan said, “Alright! Let’s go have hotpot.”
“I know of a hotpot restaurant that serves delicious soup bases,” said Wen Xinya, who then told him the exact address of the restaurant.
Si Yiyan drove towards the hotpot restaurant. Neither of them mentioned about what happened in the police station throughout the journey.
The hotpot restaurant was located in the Eastern District which was commonly known as the slums of the city. Although the citizens living in that area were living in poverty, the district was famous for its wide variety delicacies. Lots of tycoons and wealthy citizens living in the Southern District would often head there to dine.
The hotpot restaurant that Wen Xinya suggested was rather small and unappealing on the surface. Although the shop was a little shabby and run down, it was still rather sanitary.
As soon as they entered the restaurant, the aroma of spicy soup wafted up to their noses and the steam from the hot food warmed them up. “Do you still remember what I told you about getting chased by a dog because of food when I was younger?”
Si Yiyan answered, “Of course I do. I remember all your words!”
Wen Xinya snorted with laughter.
“If Buddha can’t bring you to Nirvana, I’ll take you to transcend worldliness.”
“ЯтакжеотделаYanженщина.”
“Si Yiyan, have I ever told you that I fancy you a lot and that you’re the best man I’ve ever met?”
“…”
Wen Xinya was momentarily speechless. Staring at him with an alluring gaze, she hurriedly changed the subject and said, “It was wintertime then, and I fainted in front of this restaurant. The owner of this restaurant was the one who took me in and treated me to a comforting meal of hotpot. Back then, it was the most fulfilling meal that I had ever had.”
Si Yiyan grinned widely.
Wen Xinya ordered a double-soup hotpot that consisted of ribs broth and chili broth, both of which were separated by a divider in the pot. They then proceeded to order more than ten dishes.
The soup was served soon after they placed their orders. Wen Xinya began to get hungry upon sight of the appetizing broths.
Si Yiyan would cook some veggies in the broth and scoop them into the bowl after they were cooked.
Wen Xinya began eating gleefully.
Wen Xinya fed Si Yiyan a fishball and said, “The fishballs are delicious. Give them a try.”
Si Yiyan took a bite out of the fishball that she fed him.
Wen Xinya whipped her phone out to snap a photo of Si Yiyan eating the fishball in a comical manner. She couldn’t help but burst into laughter.
“You’re being mischievous again, huh?” Si Yiyan walked towards her and moved the fishball towards her mouth with his mouth.
As soon as Wen Xinya bit the fishball, their lips pressed against each other.
They began to flirt with each other while smooching and eating the fishball.
After finishing the first fishball, Si Yiyan continued to kiss her a few more times before letting go of her.
Wen Xinya’s lips were rosy and red, and she gazed at Si Yiyan affectionately. “Si Yiyan, we’re in public. You ought to be mindful of your image, lest you get accused by others for acting inappropriately with an underage teenager.”
Si Yiyan helped her to the food nonchalantly and asked, “Do I seem like a pedophile?”
Wen Xinya was filled with a sudden ominous feeling while eating her food.
Seemingly having failed to notice her unusual behavior, Si Yiyan continued to help her to the food and said, “According to research, a five-year age gap for couples is the optimal age gap for a stable relationship. Couples who have a five-year age gap also tend to face lesser conflicts.”
Noticing that he had been eating less than her, Wen Xinya decided to help him to some food as well.
Si Yiyan continued, “The findings of a study conducted by researchers from Vienna University have found that birth rates are higher for couples that have a four- to six-year age gap, where the man is older than the woman. Also, those couples tend to have smarter children and happier marriages.”
Wen Xinya almost choked on her water. She glared at Si Yiyan and said, “Si Yiyan, what are you talking about!?! I’m 15 years old now, not 25. Besides, how are you so sure that I’d marry you? Perhaps you might meet a better woman and leave me for her.”
Si Yiyan looked at her and exclaimed, “That’s impossible!”
Wen Xinya asked, “Why?”
Si Yiyan looked at Wen Xinya with a tender gaze. “Wen Xinya, people like us have to learn how to be loyal! In Lucifer, all the traitors will have to have their bones broken before they’re sent to be executed. I’ve been practicing loyalty.”
Wen Xinya’s heart wrenched up, finding Si Yiyan’s words to have some hidden meanings.
Si Yiyan stared at her abruptly and said, “Ever since I swore to be loyal to you, I’ll never betray you. If I do, death shall be the only thing that awaits me.”
Wen Xinya suddenly recalled the time where he knelt down before her in the small and claustrophobic room in the condominium. It was as if he was her pious worshipper and he then shackled her legs with a chain that was labeled “Slave of Love”.
“When you knelt down before me back then, was it a ritual?” she asked. In fact, it was indeed a ritual when he compared himself to a slave who was only loyal to one master.
Si Yiyan nodded and explained, “This is an ancient ritual that originated from Huaxia. It symbolizes eternal loyalty to a single master and one would have to make the sacred vow using their life.”
“Si Yiyan, if you promise to be loyal, I promise to never give up on you!” Wen Xinya exclaimed, filled with a mix of emotions. Do I feel joyous or do I feel bitter? She couldn’t help but feel like her heart was growing heavy.
Si Yiyan’s eyes lit up and he exclaimed, “Repeat yourself!”
Wen Xinya smiled tenderly and repeated, “If You promise to be loyal, I promise to never leave you!”
Si Yiyan appeared even more dashing when he smiled.
Chapter 349: Wen Xinya Is Being a Tyrant
Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios
Su Jinshan brought Jiang Ruoyin to the hospital for a checkup, which proved that she did not suffer any major injuries apart from some bruises and abrasions.
Su Jinshan stayed by Jiang Ruoyin’s side throughout and spoke to her continuously, finally placating Jiang Ruoyin’s emotions after a long buffer time.
Su Jinshan handed her a glass of warm milk and said, “Ruoyin, have some milk. You’ll feel better after you get some sleep.”
“Mother, will you sleep together with me tonight?” Jiang Ruoyin asked while grabbing the glass of milk. It seemed as if the warmness of the milk penetrated through her skin instantly. “I’m scared. I’ll recall the scene of that bunch of people taking me to the black house the moment it’s quiet around me.”
A melancholic expression formed on Jiang Ruoyin’s face, and she shivered uncontrollably while speaking. Fear and terror consumed her.
Su Jinshan pulled her into her embrace and held her hand. “Ruoyin, it’s alright. I’m right here. I’ll accompany you to sleep tonight. It’s been a long time since we slept next to each other.”
Quivering uncontrollably from head to toe, Jiang Ruoyin said, “Mother, you have no idea how terrifying those people are. They wanted to extort our family and ask for a ransom of 10 million yuan before gangraping me and killing me. They had even bought the tickets to move my corpse across the borders illegally to M Nation. I was really scared…”
Su Jinshan felt extremely thankful for Gu Yuehan’s help. Otherwise, they wouldn’t be able to save Jiang Ruoyin even after handing over the ransom. Grabbing her daughter’s hand tightly, Su Jinshan exclaimed, “It’s alright, it’s alright now! Those people can’t hurt you anymore.”
Jiang Ruoyin was overwhelmed with agony and misery. Feeling extremely aggrieved, she bawled loudly and lamented in between sobs. “Mother, I’m really terrified. I thought I wouldn’t get to see you guys again forever. I kept crying and begging for them to let me off. However, they ignored me and refused to budge. They even hollered at me and told me to shut up and stop being annoying. I was so petrified that I didn’t dare to speak.”
Su Jinshan was grief-stricken. Yet, she did not know how she should comfort her daughter.
Jiang Ruoyin hugged Su Jinshan tightly and continued, “I stayed in the black room alone and never got to see the light of day. I had no idea how much time had passed, either. I didn’t dare to sleep, and all I did was count my fingers repeatedly, all the way until ten thousand. Yet, no one was there to save me at all. I thought you didn’t want me anymore, Mother…”
Su Jinshan patted the back of her hand and said, “Don’t spout nonsense. You’re my flesh and blood, you mean the world to me. Why would I abandon you?”
Jiang Ruoyin burst into tears again. “Mother…”
Su Jinshan was incredibly miserable. She barked indignantly. “How could those ruthless thugs be so immoral and inhumane as to kidnap an underage girl? Ruoyin, don’t worry. I’ll definitely seek revenge for you. I won’t let those people off.”
Jiang Ruoyin asked agitatedly, “Really?”
Su Jinshan wiped the tears off her face and explained, “The police called just now to inform me that those thugs have been arrested and are now detained in the police station. I must make sure that they’re jailed for the rest of their lives.”
Jiang Ruoyin wiped the rest of her tears away and said resolutely with a menacing gaze, “I’m going to make sure they kneel before me and apologize.”
Su Jinshan gritted her teeth and said, “Don’t worry, I’ll definitely fulfill your wishes.”
Jiang Ruoyin finally got a grip on her emotions.
Noticing that she had stopped talking, Su Jinshan asked, “Ruoyin, I know you hired someone to abduct Wen Xinya in the past, so what happened in the end? Did Wen Xinya do something terrible to you? Tell me the truth. I’ll stand up for you.”
Jiang Ruoyin shivered at the thought of Wen Xinya luring her to the basement of a bar where a man stripped her down to nothing and snapped photos of her naked body. She could not help but feel terribly ashamed.
Su Jinshan suddenly turned pale again, for she knew that Jiang Ruoyin had really been harmed by Wen Xinya. She said in a tender voice, “Ruoyin, the Jiang family and the Wen Family have completely fallen out with each other. Should you get into another conflict with her again in the future, you must tell me about it, lest you bring more trouble for yourself. I’ll handle everything for you and won’t let you lose out.”
Upon hearing her words, Jiang Ruoyin teared up again. Choking with sobs, Jiang Ruoyin explained everything that happened to her that night. “Wen Xinya resorted to despicable means and snapped photos of me when I was naked. She even threatened me and warned me not to provoke her again. If I or the Jiang family incur her wrath, she’d publish those photos of me onto the internet.”
Su Jinshan almost blacked out and fainted. She felt as if a million daggers had pierced through her heart. Seething with exasperation, she gritted her teeth angrily and said, “Wen Xinya is such a huge bully. She’s really gone overboard.”
“Mother, what do we do now?” Jiang Ruoyin asked with tears flowing out of her eyes like a broken faucet.
Su Jinshan felt as if lightning had struck her heart, causing her to be overwhelmed with unbearable pain. “Why didn’t you tell me about something so serious?”
Jiang Ruoyin sobbed and said, “I was afraid that you’d confront Wen Xinya and she might just upload my photos onto the internet…”
Filled with resentment towards Wen Xinya, Su Jinshan said, “It’s all my fault. I know you hired someone to abduct Wen Xinya because you wanted her to have a taste of her own medicine. That’s why I didn’t stop you. Yet… that shameless wretch Wen Xinya turned out to be so hard to deal with. You even ended up losing out.”
Jiang Ruoyin continued to weep miserably.
Su Jinshan grimaced at the thought of Wen Xinya making her apologize in front of everyone else at the police station. Seething with anger, she said, “That little bitch Wen Xinya is already so ruthless at such a young age. She’s going to be terrible when she’s older. Ruoyin, don’t worry. I won’t let Wen Xinya off easily. I’ll definitely make her pay the price for what she has done to you.”
Shaking her head profusely in fear, Jiang Ruoyin said, “Mother… please don’t. If Wen Xinya uploads those photos of me onto the internet, how am I supposed to continue living from now on!?!”
Su Jinshan caressed her head with resentment in her eyes. “Rest assured and leave this to me. I won’t give her the chance to hurt my daughter again.”
Jiang Ruoyin asked apprehensively, “Mother, do you really have the confidence to deal with her?”
Su Jinshan asked with a sullen expression, “What’s wrong? Don’t you believe me?”
Jiang Ruoyin shook her head.
Su Jinshan patted her on the back and said, “Don’t worry, I’m here for you no matter what happens. I won’t let you be treated unfairly.”
Chapter 350: Too Bad, the Person Whom You Offended Is Wen Xinya
Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios
After Wen Xinya and her friends left, Bureau Chief Li called Wang Hanjie into his office and ordered. “I won’t put you in a spot for what happened today. Hand me your resignation letter tomorrow!”
Wang Hanjie’s legs turned into jelly, feeling as if all of his energy had been sucked out of him instantly. His eyes widened in shock and stared at Bureau Chief Li in bewilderment. “Bureau Chief, even if I made a mistake by failing to follow the standard procedures and protocol when taking Wen Xinya to the police station for interrogations, I would at most be given a demerit point. Why are you making me resign?”
Staring at him sympathetically, Bureau Chief Li said, “I didn’t want to do that either, but too bad, the person whom you offended is Wen Xinya. Did you forget who she is? She’s a member of the wealthy and powerful Wen Family and her grandfather is Old Mr. Mo. Even I have to respectful and polite when speaking to them. I’d have to swallow my pride and bow down to them. Even the Head Superintendent treats them with respect. Who do you think you are? Are you mightier than the nation’s leader?”
“Can’t you just demote me?” asked Wang Hanjie, who had turned as pale as a sheet. He was not highly educated and only managed to rise to his position because of his brother-in-law, Jiang Wenzhe’s connections. He had a rigid mindset that the citizens would never be able to undermine government officials.
In his eyes, the Wen Family were merely merchants who were far inferior to his brother-in-law, and Old Mr. Mo… was nothing but a scholar. So what if he’s famous and influential? he thought.
That was also the reason why he was so willing to help his niece Jiang Yuqian deal with Wen Xinya. Yet, he did not expect that he had made an utterly wrong move.
“Demote you? Didn’t you hear that the Head Superintendent has already been informed of this matter? Do you really think that everything will blow over just by demoting you?”
Wang Hanjie’s hopes were dashed. Consumed by terror and anxiety, he broke out into cold sweat and said, “How about you transfer me to another branch, instead? I can leave this city and go to another one. Will that do?”
Staring at him in disdain, Bureau Chief Li chastised. “There’s no such thing as an easy escape. You’re being too naive by thinking that you can escape unscathed after offending someone that you shouldn’t have offended! Wen Xinya clearly wants to pursue this matter. Once her lawyer intervenes, it won’t be as simple as sacking you. If you don’t wish to be involved in a lawsuit, you’d better comply.”
Wang Hanjie staggered forward and knelt down before Bureau Chief Li. Tearing up uncontrollably, he pleaded. “Bureau Chief Li, please save me! After all, I’ve been working under you for so many years. You can’t just leave me in the lurch!”
Staring at Wang Hanjie kneeling before him with a straight face, he recalled the countless number of people who had knelt before him throughout the span of his decades-long career. Besides… he was going to retire soon and could not afford to ruin the reputation that he had painstakingly built throughout the years simply because he had taken pity on Wang Hanjie.
Hugging his thigh tightly and crying at the top of his lungs, Wang Hanjie pleaded. “Bureau Chief Li, you’re on good terms with that Mr. Gu, please just put in a good word for me. Don’t make me leave the police force. I’ll gladly accept a demotion or a transfer.”
Although he was barely educated, he understood that where’s there’s life, there’s hope. He thought to himself, Given Brother-in-law’s power, there’ll definitely be a day where I rise to success again. However, if I were to leave the police force, I’ll never have the chance to make a comeback.
Bureau Chief Li sneered. “Do you really think I don’t know that you’ve been eying my position? You were planning to curry your niece’s favor so that she could put in a good word for you in front of Jiang Wenzhe and influence him to let you be promoted to my position once I retire.”
Wang Hanjie’s eyes widened in shock and he stopped crying instantly. All the mucus dripping from his nose made him appear extremely disheveled. He dared not make eye contact with Bureau Chief Li’s cold eyes.
Glaring at him in amusement, Bureau Chief Li quipped. “How capable of you. You really think Jiang Wenzhe is so powerful? He’s not powerful enough to touch me.”
Wang Hanjie turned pale, overwhelmed with shame and embarrassment that made him feel like killing himself. He instinctively explained, “Bureau Chief, you got me wrong. I don’t have such intentions.”
Bureau Chief Li scoffed. “You know clearly whether you have such intentions or not. Be smart and tender your resignation. That way, you won’t get into trouble and it’ll be easier for me to account to the higher authorities.”
Wang Hanjie stared at Bureau Chief Li in utter disbelief and asked, “Bureau Chief Li, did… did the higher authorities tell you to make me resign?”
How stupid and foolish of him to still be so muddled up at this juncture! Bureau Chief Li said in contempt, “Why would the higher authorities be bothered about a small fry like you? There are lots of ways for them to get rid of you and give you the sack. You’ve broken the rules and law numerous times before throughout your career as the chief of this police post. You can easily be thrown into jail. I’m only taking pity on you and giving you an easier way out on the account that you’re my subordinate.”
Wang Hanjie was at a complete loss for words.
Bureau Chief Li sneered at him before turning around to leave the office.
After Bureau Chief Li left, Wang Hanjie sat on the ground, dumbstruck and unable to recover from the shock.
The chilliness of the ground penetrated through his skin and sent a cold shiver down his spine. He finally snapped back to reality and frantically whipped out his mobile phone to call Jiang Yuqian.
Jiang Yuqian questioned in displeasure, “Didn’t you say that Wen Xinya would be done for this time and that she would definitely be framed as Jiang Ruoyin’s abductor? Didn’t you say that her reputation would be tarnished even if she doesn’t get punished by the law? Why is she alive and well now?”
“Didn’t you witness everything that happened? If it weren’t because of Bureau Chief Li’s intervention, Wen Xinya wouldn’t have been able to escape scot-free…” said Wang Hanjie, who was filled with exasperation. If it weren’t because of Jiang Yuqian, he wouldn’t have ended up in such a sorry plight. He couldn’t help but feel peeved at the thought of Jiang Yuqian’s often haughty and snobbish attitude towards him. However, he had no choice but to mellow his tone since he needed her help.
Jiang Yuqian interrupted him and did not allow him to continue. “At the end of the day, you are to blame because you’re useless. My father tried his best to give you a push in your career and yet, you’re just a useless piece of garbage. You’re the Chief of the police station and yet you can’t even get such a simple task done. I’m telling you, you can forget about getting me to put in a good word for you.”
Wang Hanjie frantically tried to butter her up. “Yuqian, don’t be like this. Just help me on the account that I’m your uncle and your mother’s brother, will you? Bureau Chief Li wants to chase me out of the police station. If I leave the police force, Brother-in-law will have one less person to help him…”
Ning Shuqian again interjected. “My mother has passed away for so many years. Why are you bringing her up again? Besides, you’re not my mother’s blood-related brother. You were just her burden. My father has treated you very well on my mother’s account. What more do you want?”
She then hung up on him. He tried to call again, only to discover that she had already switched off her mobile phone.
He then called Jiang Wenzhe’s secretary.
The call went through quickly. “Hello, Mr. Wang! Mr. Jiang would like you to stop calling him from now on.”
Beep… beep… beep…
The beeping tone of the call ending rang in his ears continuously. He finally realized that it was truly over for him this time.