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The car fell into silence.
Qin Tang bit her lip, her mind blank for a few seconds as the name on the ID Jiang Chuan had sent her flashed before her eyes.
He Cong’an watched her pale face, feeling a pang of guilt, but he knew he had to make this clear. “Has Jiang Chuan ever told you what his original name was? What he used to be called?”
“Yes,” Qin Tang replied.
He Cong’an was slightly surprised, staring at her expression. Her lips were pale, and the imprint of her teeth was still visible on her lower lip, but her eyes had already regained their composure. He couldn’t decipher what her current expression meant.
Qin Tang opened the car door. He Cong’an quickly got out, and the two stood facing each other across the car.
He Cong’an’s expression was one of helplessness. “What are you thinking now?”
Qin Tang lowered her head and walked to the back of the car, avoiding He Cong’an’s gaze. “I’m getting my luggage.”
He Cong’an stared at her for a moment, then opened the trunk and helped her take out her suitcase. As Qin Tang began dragging it away, He Cong’an grabbed her arm. “I just don’t want you to be deceived. That accident years ago hurt everyone deeply, especially you. I don’t want you to get trapped in it again.”
Qin Tang gripped the handle of her suitcase and turned to look at him. “He hasn’t deceived me.”
Her mind was in chaos now, and she needed time to think. She didn’t like others interfering in her personal affairs—especially He Cong’an.
Jiang Chuan had said that after the case was over, he would give her an explanation. She had always assumed he meant something deeper about their relationship, something about their future together.
Perhaps she was wrong. What he wanted to explain might not be limited to that.
He had sent her his ID, revealing everything about himself to her.
He hadn’t lied to her.
He Cong’an frowned as Qin Tang pulled her arm free and dragged her suitcase forward. After a few steps, she stopped and turned to look at him. “Don’t tell my parents yet.”
He Cong’an sighed in frustration. “I haven’t said anything.”
Qin Tang pressed her lips tightly together. “Mm.”
---
Back home, Qin Tang sank into the soft sofa, staring blankly at the ceiling.
For a long time.
She went into her room, took out the ID from the cabinet, and gently traced her fingers over the photo. The man in the picture was undoubtedly Jiang Chuan, but the name on the ID wasn’t Jiang Chuan.
The name beneath the photo read:
Lu Ye.
She knew he had been an undercover agent before, and she guessed that “Jiang Chuan” was probably the alias he used during his undercover work. She trusted him. Aside from this name, everything else about him was real—especially his feelings for her.
That was enough.
Qin Tang closed her eyes, and flashes of that stormy evening flooded her mind. The entire world had been gray and bleak—two cars colliding, screams of terror, the car tumbling halfway down a cliff, and then unconsciousness. Everything had happened so unexpectedly, so suddenly.
At first, she thought it was just a nightmare, but when she woke up, she realized it was real.
Everything had changed.
At that time, she had been injured too. Chen Jingsheng had suffered severe injuries, and Zhou Qi had sustained a serious head injury, falling into a coma. She was only 19 years old then, and the weight of all these changes crushed her. Every day felt like a blur. Her family handled all the aftermath of the accident, and she didn’t have the energy to ask questions. Only once did she overhear their conversation and learn that the driver of the other car had the surname Lu.
Someone had died in that car.
A death.
Nineteen-year-old Qin Tang had been terrified.
Once her physical condition improved slightly, she barely had time to focus on herself. She was busy taking care of Chen Jingsheng, who had lost half a leg. At that time, Chen Jingsheng’s temper had become extremely volatile. Every day, he would wake up angry, throwing things around and calling himself useless. He insisted on breaking up with her.
Zhou Qi remained in a deep sleep day after day. Peng Ran couldn’t handle the pressure and nearly collapsed, so her parents sent her abroad to recuperate.
When everyone thought Qin Tang would also break down, she endured. For an entire year, she stayed in the UK to accompany Chen Jingsheng through rehabilitation. He recovered well, his temper improved, and with a prosthetic leg, he could walk and run almost like a normal person.
He could even watch car races again. As long as he stood tall, no one could tell he was disabled.
Aside from Zhou Qi still being unconscious, everything seemed to be moving in a positive direction.
Until Chen Jingsheng insisted on participating in the Bangkok TT race—and everything came crashing down.
---
The shrill sound of her phone ringing jolted Qin Tang awake.
For a moment, she was disoriented.
Reaching into her bag, she pulled out her phone and stared blankly at the name on the screen: Jiang Chuan.
Just as the call was about to disconnect, she answered. “Hello,” her voice thin and hoarse.
Jiang Chuan paused. “What’s wrong with your voice?”
Qin Tang took a deep breath. “Nothing. Just a bit thirsty.”
Jiang Chuan chuckled. “Where are you now?”
“At home.”
“Go drink some water.”
Qin Tang got up. “Okay.”
She fetched a bottle of water from the fridge, unscrewed the cap, and poured the icy liquid down her throat. The cold seeped into her core, clearing her mind. “I’m done drinking.”
Jiang Chuan laughed. “I heard.”
Qin Tang looked down at her hand. The Galsang flower tattoo on the back of her right hand was as vibrant as ever.
“Jiang Chuan, when you said you’d give me an explanation after the case is over, what did you mean?”
Jiang Chuan replied: “The past, and the future.”
Qin Tang pressed her lips together. “Okay.”
Jiang Chuan reminded her: “I won’t be able to celebrate your birthday with you. If you want anything, go buy it. Use the card I gave you.”
Qin Tang: “Okay.”
“I’ll make it up to you next time.”
“Okay.”
“These days, Cao Sheng is in Beijing. If anything happens, he’ll contact you directly. Call him if you need anything.”
“Okay.”
“And…”
“Okay.”
Jiang Chuan chuckled. “I haven’t finished yet.”
Qin Tang said: “It’s fine. I understand what you mean. You don’t need to worry about me. Worry about yourself more. You said you’d die on me if anything happens. I’ll wait for you to give me that explanation.”
“Okay.”
---
Late at night, the next day, Yulin City.
Jiang Chuan twirled his phone in his hand, leaning against the wall as he smoked the last drag of his cigarette. His gaze was distant, lost in thought.
Something about Qin Tang last night had felt off.
A loud BANG echoed through the alley.
Cao Yan hurried in from the entrance, stomping out the cigarette butt Jiang Chuan had discarded. In a low voice, he urged: “Let’s go.”
Jiang Chuan listened carefully. Chaotic footsteps were approaching from afar. His expression shifted slightly, and he quickly turned, both men pressing themselves against the wall as they moved swiftly and steadily toward another exit. Their footsteps were rapid and silent, like the wind.
The footsteps behind them were closing in fast.
Jiang Chuan exchanged a glance with Cao Yan, and they swiftly ducked under the doorframe on the right.
The approaching footsteps slowed. A shadow cautiously drew nearer.
The first thing that caught Jiang Chuan’s eye was the long knife in the man’s hand, gleaming faintly in the darkness. Jiang Chuan narrowed his eyes slightly. As the blade swung toward him, he swiftly grabbed the attacker’s wrist and twisted it backward. The attacker reacted quickly, pulling away and kicking upward.
Jiang Chuan sidestepped to avoid the kick, and the attacker swung the knife again. Just as Cao Yan was about to step in to help, another burly man wielding a long knife emerged from behind and charged at him with a fierce slash. Cao Yan hurriedly dodged.
Jiang Chuan glanced back and saw six or seven tall, muscular men rushing toward them, each armed with weapons.
Cao Yan cursed under his breath: “Damn!”
Jiang Chuan tightened his lips and delivered a sharp elbow strike to the attacker’s arm. The man’s grip loosened, and the knife fell. Jiang Chuan seized the opportunity to snatch the weapon, kicked the man hard in the chest, and slashed his arm. The man screamed in pain, clutching his wounded arm as he collapsed to the ground, groaning.
Soon, two more men attacked him simultaneously.
Outnumbered, Jiang Chuan and Cao Yan pressed their backs together, carefully countering their opponents.
Cao Yan whispered: “Did you bring it?”
Jiang Chuan: “Mm.”
“If it gets bad, pull it out.”
“No need.”
Firing a gun would only attract more attention, making it harder for them to escape unscathed.
Five attackers remained.
With just the two of them, they should be able to handle the situation without much trouble.
Suddenly, two men swung their knives at Jiang Chuan at the same time. His expression hardened as he raised his blade to parry their attacks while Cao Yan dealt with those behind them.
Fortunately, the narrow alley made it difficult for the attackers to maneuver. Their numbers worked against them, giving Jiang Chuan and Cao Yan an opening to counterattack.
The dim light at the entrance of the alley was suddenly blocked as more chaotic footsteps approached—reinforcements had arrived. Jiang Chuan and Cao Yan didn’t have time to look closely; they only managed a quick glance. Jiang Chuan deflected a blade and slashed one attacker across the shoulder. He growled: “Let’s go.”
It was clear that their pursuers were aware—the number of enemies would only increase.
Their cover had been blown. If they didn’t leave now, they’d be dead.
The two men sprinted forward.
Their pursuers also had guns, but they hesitated to use them. In the darkness, neither side could clearly see the other’s faces or identify who they were dealing with. If they were police officers, firing a gun might alert nearby residents or draw law enforcement.
A group chased after them relentlessly. Jiang Chuan and Cao Yan focused solely on running, ignoring everything else.
Just as they were about to reach the exit of the alley, several cold, sharp blades appeared at the entrance.
Jiang Chuan muttered under his breath. They were surrounded on both sides. He said: “You go ahead. I’ll cover the rear.”
As the pursuers closed in from behind, Jiang Chuan turned swiftly to face them. Several blades swung toward him simultaneously, and he began to feel the strain. He heard Cao Yan grunt behind him, and blood splattered onto his arm. Jiang Chuan’s expression darkened as he dared not let his guard down. He retreated a step and asked: “Are you okay?”
Cao Yan gritted his teeth: “I’m fine.”
Jiang Chuan dodged another blade, but out of the corner of his eye, he noticed an enemy’s knife slashing toward Cao Yan. His expression shifted instantly, and he rushed to block the attack. Seizing the moment, their pursuers swung their blades wildly. Jiang Chuan was struck multiple times on his shoulder and arm.
Cao Yan’s expression changed as he delivered a powerful slash, breaking through the encirclement. “Go!”
Jiang Chuan clutched his wounds and retreated. He pulled over a nearby wooden rack, which collapsed with a loud crash, blocking their pursuers.
The two men ran desperately through the night, leaving trails of blood behind them.
They finally reached the parking spot.
Jiang Chuan yanked open the car door, and Cao Yan jumped inside. Jiang Chuan quickly started the engine, shifted gears, and floored the accelerator.
The car surged forward at high speed. Just as they hit the road, two vehicles appeared behind them in pursuit.
Cao Yan glanced back and cursed: “Shit! We can’t shake them off!”
Jiang Chuan clenched his jaw, saying nothing. He steered toward the right lane. As the pursuing car sped up beside them, Jiang Chuan sharply turned the wheel just before impact, flooring the gas pedal. The tires screeched violently against the ground, sparking.
“BANG!” The pursuing car slammed into the rocky embankment, its front end crumpling inward.
The second car behind it couldn’t evade in time and collided with the rear bumper, causing it to skid sideways. The vehicle spun around, its body slamming heavily into the wreckage before coming to a stop, engine dead.
Traveling at such high speeds, Jiang Chuan’s car scraped dangerously close to flipping over. After narrowly regaining control, he floored the accelerator again, speeding away.
---
A short while later, someone stepped out of the car, clutching their chest, their face covered in blood.
The pursuing vehicles stopped behind them.
“Where are they?”
“They’re gone. Haven’t seen them for a while.”
“Fuck! What do we do now? Did anyone see what they looked like?”
The man wiped the blood from his face. “No, it was too dark.”
“Go back and report to the boss. You few stay behind and take the injured brothers to the hospital.”
Several men returned to the basement. Zhao Qianhe’s face was icy as he berated them: “What good are all of you?! So many people couldn’t even catch two men?!”
No one dared to utter a word.
Zhao Qianhe’s face was cold, his brows furrowed deeply, the scar on his forehead making him look even more menacing. His voice was low and menacing: “Did any of you see their faces?”
“No.”
Zhao Qianhe slammed his fist into the face of the man standing closest to him. “Am I paying you lot to be useless?!”
The man nearly collapsed but quickly fumbled in his pocket and pulled something out. “During the fight, I managed to grab this from one of them.”
Zhao Qianhe glanced at it, his eyes narrowing. His voice was chilling, like ice rising from a deep cavern: “Hmph.”
Zhao Qianhe called Jiang Kun. “Kun Ge, burning bridges isn’t wise.”
Jiang Kun: “I don’t know what you mean.”
Zhao Qianhe sneered: “You sent people to disrupt my operation, and you don’t understand what I mean? Should I bring my men to confront you face-to-face?”
Jiang Kun frowned, quickly realizing what Zhao meant. His tone softened: “I told you, it wasn’t me who sent those people. You know how many enemies you have. I wouldn’t resort to such underhanded tactics against you.”
“Not yet?” Zhao Qianhe snorted coldly. “Who tried to kill me repeatedly while I was in prison?”
This was something Jiang Kun couldn’t deny. He replied calmly: “Brother Zhao, I admit to what I’ve done in the past. But this time, it really wasn’t me. If you believe otherwise, you’re falling into someone else’s trap.”
Zhao Qianhe’s already-minimal trust in Jiang Kun had completely eroded. With a sinister smile, he said: “Kun Ge, if I drown, I’ll make sure you don’t stay happy on the shore.”
Zhao Qianhe hung up the phone.
Jiang Kun listened to the dial tone, his face darkening with rage. He suddenly hurled his phone into the corner, shattering it into pieces.
“Zhao Feng!”
Zhao Feng pushed open the door. “Kun Ge.”
Jiang Kun turned to look at him. “Find out what Jiang Chuan has been up to recently. Also, check on Zhao Qianhe’s situation. He’s accusing me of sending people to sabotage his operation.”
Zhao Feng fell silent for a few seconds before replying: “Zhao Qianhe harbors deep resentment toward Jiang Chuan. However, Jiang Chuan has been very quiet these past few years, showing no signs of activity. Even when you provoked him last time, he refused to back down. And even though Zhao Qianhe wanted to kill him, Jiang Chuan didn’t come to cooperate with you.”
“So you’re saying he’s not involved?” Jiang Kun smirked. “Then why was he present at the An Yi Foundation auction?”
Zhao Feng: “He’s dating Qin Tang.”
Jiang Kun raised an eyebrow. “I know that. Are you suggesting that he got involved just because of that woman?”
Zhao Feng looked up. “That’s my guess.”
Jiang Kun narrowed his eyes and leaned back in his chair, rubbing the jade ring on his right thumb with his left hand. “Are you certain Jiang Chuan’s identity isn’t fake?”
Zhao Feng frowned. “We couldn’t find any clues a few years ago. Now, after so much time has passed, there are even fewer leads. I understand your concerns about him possibly being connected to the police, but we haven’t found anything incriminating even after all this time.”
“Fine. Let’s deal with Zhao Qianhe first.”
---
Jiang Chuan parked the car in front of the hospital. Cao Yan, clutching his wound, glanced at Jiang Chuan. Both their clothes were soaked with blood.
Jiang Chuan’s left hand was stiff, and blood continued to flow from his injuries.
He moved slightly and opened the car door. “Let’s go. If we wait any longer, my hand might be ruined.”
A doctor was already waiting for them. As soon as they stepped out of the car, medical staff rushed over to treat them.
After their wounds were treated, both Jiang Chuan and Cao Yan were pale from blood loss, but they remained conscious. Han Cheng walked into the ward, and the two immediately straightened up. “Director Han.”
Han Cheng gestured for them to lie back down. “Rest. You’ve worked hard tonight.”
Jiang Chuan leaned against the headboard, saying nothing.
Cao Yan chuckled faintly. “This is our duty. But I’m not sure how effective it will be.”
There was a faint red mark around Jiang Chuan’s neck. The item he had been wearing earlier had been deliberately grabbed during the chaos. During the previous car accident, Cao Yan had captured several people, one of whom held significant influence under Jiang Kun. That person had been wearing a piece of jade.
Tonight, Jiang Chuan and Cao Yan had infiltrated Zhao Qianhe’s underground casino.
Cao Yan had disrupted the operation, injuring the guards outside.
Then, they lured the pursuers into an alley.
The two had staged a performance, ensuring that Zhao Qianhe and Jiang Kun would completely fall out with each other.
Jiang Chuan rubbed his neck. “Based on my understanding of Zhao Qianhe, if he recognizes that jade as belonging to someone under Jiang Kun, he’ll definitely grow suspicious. His paranoia has only worsened after spending years in prison. He won’t easily trust Jiang Kun anymore.”
Director Han smiled faintly and looked at Jiang Chuan. “Thankfully, you’re willing to help with this case. No one understands Zhao Qianhe better than you do.”
Jiang Chuan gave a slight tug at the corner of his mouth, his tone flat. “It’s what I should do.”
Everyone knew that Lin Hao was always on his mind. Director Han didn’t say anything further, instructing them to rest and outlining the next steps before leaving.
Cao Yan lay back down and turned to look at Jiang Chuan in the adjacent bed. “Once this case is over, are you really not planning to come back?”
Jiang Chuan closed his eyes. “We’ll see.”
---
On Qin Tang’s 24th birthday, she invited everyone from the An Yi Foundation and her studio to a hotel for a birthday banquet.
She hadn’t celebrated her birthday like this in years, so her family and friends were delighted. The birthday party was lively and bustling. Qin Tang had also invited Cao Sheng, who did show up but didn’t enter the venue.
The aftermath of the accident years ago had been handled by him and Han Cheng. Her parents knew him well.
Qin Tang stood before him in a beige floor-length gown and looked at him. “If you don’t go inside, how will you investigate what’s going on within the An Yi Foundation or identify the main suspects?”
Cao Sheng flicked his cigarette ash. “Do you have no suspicions about anyone?”
Qin Tang: “I know you suspect Old Yuan, but I’m certain he’s not involved. He’s been working with my parents for over a decade. If he needed money, he could have directly approached them instead of risking imprisonment by laundering money for Jiang Kun.”
Cao Sheng couldn’t directly investigate the An Yi Foundation, so Qin Tang came up with a plan. By hosting a grand birthday celebration, she allowed him to get close to the key individuals.
Cao Sheng understood this clearly. He was also well aware of Jiang Chuan and Qin Tang’s relationship.
If things went wrong and their relationship was damaged, he wouldn’t be able to forgive himself.
Jiang Chuan had already endured enough over the years.
Just as he was about to speak, two people emerged from the banquet hall.
Jing Xin and Zhou Mu looked at Qin Tang. Jing Xin was about to say something but paused upon seeing the man beside Qin Tang. She froze momentarily.
Zhou Mu’s expression changed dramatically.
Qin Tang remained composed, turning her head with a smile. “Mom, Aunt Shu.”
Jing Xin looked at Zhou Mu, whose face had completely darkened. Her tone was displeased. “Tang Tang, how could you be with this man?”
Qin Tang guessed part of the reason and lowered her gaze. “This is a friend of mine. Do you know him?”
Jing Xin looked at her daughter, then at Cao Sheng.
Cao Sheng nodded to them. “Madam Qin, Madam Zhou.”
Zhou Mu’s expression grew darker, but for the sake of Jing Xin and Qin Tang, she refrained from making a scene. Jing Xin smiled faintly. “Mr. Cao, it’s been a long time.”
Cao Sheng pressed his lips together. “It’s been a long time.”
They hadn’t expected to run into each other here.
Cao Sheng looked at Qin Tang. Her expression remained unchanged, her lips curving slightly upward. She said: “Mom, Aunt Shu, today is my birthday. Cao Sheng is my friend, and since he’s already here, I’d like to invite him inside to sit for a while.”
Jing Xin studied Cao Sheng intently. After a few seconds, she looked at her daughter. “Alright. Your Aunt Shu and I will go to the restroom.”
After the two left.
Qin Tang looked at Cao Sheng: “You know my parents and Zhou Qi’s parents?”
Cao Sheng couldn’t deny it and nodded slowly. “Mm.”
Qin Tang bit her lip, her expression already calm. “Is it related to the accident in Zhenba five years ago?”
“Mm.”
“I see,” Qin Tang said. “You don’t need to explain further. I’ll wait for Jiang Chuan to tell me.”
Cao Sheng opened his mouth as if to say something but ultimately didn’t ask.
Qin Tang looked at him calmly. “Go inside. The investigation is more important. Once the case is over, Jiang Chuan will give me an explanation.”
Cao Sheng looked at her, unable to hold back any longer. “If you want to know anything, you can ask me. There are some things even Jiang Chuan might not know. He hasn’t had it easy these past few years.”
Qin Tang lowered her head and glanced around. No one was nearby.
After a long pause, she finally asked: “Then tell me—what’s his real name?”
“Both are,” Cao Sheng sighed. “Lu Ye was his name before he turned 21. I know he sent you his bank card, so you must have seen it—the ID still has his name as Lu Ye. After the accident, due to… certain reasons, his police status was revoked. At that time, Jiang Kun and Zhao Qianhe were already suspicious of him and investigating his identity. You understand—if an undercover agent’s identity is exposed, it’s extremely dangerous. Even though he had already left the force, Jiang Kun could still have killed him. As his superior, there wasn’t much I could do. From then on, all his personal records were changed to Jiang Chuan, taking his mother’s surname.”
Cao Sheng stared at Qin Tang and said: “He only changed his name. The person is still the same.”
Qin Tang’s mind raced, and she asked urgently: “Revoked from the police force?”
“Mm.”
Looking at Cao Sheng’s expression, Qin Tang felt a bad premonition. “Why?”
Before Cao Sheng could answer, another person emerged from the banquet hall—it was He Cong’an. He walked toward her. “Tang Tang, why have you been out here for so long?”
Qin Tang turned around, her expression calm as usual. “Nothing. Just came out to meet a friend.”
He Cong’an hadn’t met Cao Sheng before and raised an eyebrow. “Your friend? I’ve never seen him.”
“Cao Sheng,” Qin Tang introduced. “This is He Cong’an.”
After the introductions, she looked at Cao Sheng. “Go inside.”
Cao Sheng nodded and followed them into the banquet hall.
The birthday party was grand, with nearly a hundred guests. Cao Sheng narrowed his eyes slightly, feeling somewhat overwhelmed. Qin Tang looked at He Cong’an and said: “This is a friend I met through charity work. I’ll introduce him to the people from the foundation.”
He Cong’an looked at Cao Sheng. “Alright, I’ll come with you.”
Qin Tang smiled faintly. “No need. You go entertain the other guests.”
He Cong’an glanced at her but didn’t insist. “Alright.”
Most of the people from the An Yi Foundation were in their 30s, with the majority between 35 and 50 years old. Qin Tang’s friends, however, were younger, creating a generational gap. They mostly gathered together to eat and chat, avoiding mingling with the younger crowd.
Qin Tang leaned closer to Cao Sheng and lowered her voice: “They’re basically all here.”
Cao Sheng nodded. “Do you have any suspects in mind?”
The music drowned out their conversation.
Qin Tang smiled faintly. “Let’s take a look.”
Cao Sheng understood. Qin Tang walked over, and soon everyone noticed her. They complimented her: “Qin Tang, you look beautiful today. Happy birthday!”
“Thank you.”
Qin Tang accepted their blessings and glanced at Du Xin’s necklace, smiling faintly. “Du Xin, I wanted to buy that necklace before, but it went out of stock. I didn’t want to wait, so I bought a different style.”
It was a Cartier rose gold necklace with diamonds.
Du Xin blushed slightly and laughed softly. “It’s a wedding anniversary gift from my husband. He doesn’t have that much money, so it’s probably fake.”
Qin Tang withdrew her gaze indifferently. A woman close to Du Xin interjected: “What’s wrong with fake? I often buy fakes too. After all, the originals are ridiculously expensive. It’s enough just to wear them for fun. Women love jewelry.”
Qin Tang smiled faintly. Only then did everyone notice the man beside her. They asked: “Who is this…?”
“Oh,” Qin Tang gestured toward Cao Sheng. “This is my friend, Mr. Cao. He also works in charity. Since he’s in Beijing this time, I invited him.”
“I see. Mr. Cao, where are you from?”
“Xi’an.”
“Xi’an? There are many impoverished counties in Shaanxi. This year, the An Yi Foundation’s focus is on aiding the mountainous regions of Shaanxi.”
Cao Sheng smiled. “So, I should thank the An Yi Foundation.”
Du Xin exchanged a glance with her friend, quickly looking away. Cao Sheng didn’t miss this exchange.
From across the room, Zhou Qi called out to Qin Tang. Qin Tang glanced over and said: “Everyone, please entertain my friend while I go over there for a moment.”
Qin Tang walked over. Zhou Qi’s complexion had regained its color compared to when he first woke up, no longer pale. His height remained at 180 cm, and Qin Tang, wearing heels, reached his eye level. Zhou Qi smiled: “Sis, you didn’t come over to hang out with us.”
Qin Tang looked at him.
Zhou Qi found it strange. “Why are you staring at me? Is there something on my face?”
He reached up to touch his face.
Qin Tang shook her head. “No. I want to ask you a question.”
Zhou Qi: “Ask away.”
Qin Tang gazed at him, remaining silent for a long time. Zhou Qi grew anxious, thinking he might have done something wrong, and waited nervously. Finally, Qin Tang asked: “Do you hate the person who crashed into us back then?”
Zhou Qi froze, scratching his head. “No.”
“Why not?”
“I heard someone in their car died. And given the weather and road conditions that day, even Chen Jingsheng—a professional motorcycle racer who was also skilled at driving cars—couldn’t control the vehicle. So how could we? Besides, I know Chen Jingsheng’s death was indirectly related to that accident. If it weren’t for the accident, his leg would’ve been fine. With both legs intact, he wouldn’t have had that accident during the Bangkok TT race—he was an incredibly talented racer.”
Zhou Qi had also heard about how Chen Jingsheng insisted on participating in the race despite Qin Tang’s tearful pleas for him not to go.
In Zhou Qi’s view, Chen Jingsheng had placed too much importance on the race. Life was long, and surviving was already a blessing. Although Chen Jingsheng had lost half a leg, Zhou Qi didn’t think he was any less capable than others—at least Qin Tang had always been by his side.
Zhou Qi frowned slightly, reluctant to say these words. “I don’t hate them, and you shouldn’t either. Chen Jingsheng’s death was an accident—it’s been so many years already.”
“I know,” Qin Tang said, surprised by how perceptive Zhou Qi had become.
“Why are you suddenly asking about this?”
“No reason. I just wanted to know what you thought.”
Zhou Qi looked at her and smiled. “Now that I’ve woken up, and I’m not missing any limbs, I consider myself very lucky. Every day, my parents force me to study. I don’t have time to hate anyone.”
Qin Tang chuckled. “You should focus on your studies.”
Zhou Qi groaned in frustration, not angry at anyone but himself for not waking up sooner. “Qin Yue is almost done with university! And he’s two years younger than me!”
Qin Tang patted his shoulder and said seriously: “If you can’t graduate from university, I’ll take care of you.”
Zhou Qi: “…”
He felt deeply wounded.
Jing Xin and Zhou Mu had returned. Jing Xin leaned over to whisper something in Qin Sen’s ear. Qin Tang approached them. “Mom, Dad.”
Qin Sen glanced at his daughter, then at Cao Sheng in the distance. “Is that your friend?”
Qin Tang nodded. “Mm.”
Qin Sen’s brows furrowed slightly. “How did you meet him?”
“We met while doing charity work. He helped out.”
Qin Tang didn’t mention the issues within the An Yi Foundation, fearing it might interfere with Cao Sheng and Jiang Chuan’s investigation.
She leaned closer, linking her arm with Jing Xin’s, and softly asked: “Mom, how did Du Xin join the An Yi Foundation?”
Jing Xin thought for a moment. “Five years ago.”
That year had been one of the most chaotic periods of her life.
“Why are you asking about this?”
“Nothing special,” Qin Tang leaned against her, slightly playful. “I was just curious.”
Jing Xin patted her head. “You’ve been traveling a lot this year. Stay in Beijing for a while. Your manager told us you’ve turned down a lot of work lately. That’s not good.”
Qin Tang pouted. “She’s always reporting back to you. I’ve handled all my work properly—I just didn’t feel like taking on some projects, so I declined them. It’s like when you turn down film offers.”
Jing Xin glared at her but couldn’t argue further.
Qin Sen kept glancing at Cao Sheng and was about to walk over when Jing Xin stopped him. “What are you doing?”
Qin Sen glanced at Qin Tang. “Nothing.”
Jing Xin said to Qin Tang: “Alright, go play with your friends.”
Qin Tang looked at them curiously and slowly replied: “Okay.”
As she turned to leave, Qin Tang’s brow furrowed slightly.
Cao Sheng knew that Qin Tang and Zhou Qi’s parents were acquainted with him, so he avoided wandering around too much to prevent running into them.
Near the end of the banquet, Qin Tang walked over to him. “How’s it going?”
Cao Sheng asked: “That woman Du Xin—was the Cartier necklace she was wearing real?”
He wasn’t familiar with luxury goods, but Qin Tang came from a wealthy family. Everything she ate, wore, or used was top-tier. She definitely had the eye to tell whether something was genuine or fake.
“It’s real. Worth just over 110,000 yuan.”
Cao Sheng nodded in understanding. Earlier, he had mingled with the women and gathered some information. “What was Du Xin’s financial situation like before?”
Qin Tang said: “I asked Old Yuan about her. He said Du Xin’s husband doesn’t earn much, and two years ago, Du Xin’s mother was hospitalized. Though she recovered, it cost a fortune and nearly drained their savings. They should be struggling financially. How could her husband afford to buy her a luxury item? Moreover, during the auction, it was Du Xin who swiped the card and signed the receipt.”
Cao Sheng said: “I’ll look into this Du Xin further.”
Qin Tang nodded. “Alright. Call me if you need anything.”
Cao Sheng smiled faintly. “I’m leaving now.”
---
It was past 11 PM when Qin Tang returned home.
Jiang Chuan hadn’t called or texted her today.
After finishing her shower and lying in bed, it was already past midnight—her 24th birthday had passed.
Qin Tang lay there and soon fell asleep.
---
Late at night.
Yulin City.
Jiang Chuan and Cao Yan had just evaded another pursuit and were speeding toward their next destination.
Cao Yan glanced at Jiang Chuan’s bleeding arm. “Is your hand okay?”
Jiang Chuan shrugged it off. “It’s fine.”
Sure enough, Zhao Qianhe and Jiang Kun had started turning on each other, exposing more cracks. Combined with the leads Cao Sheng was gathering, Jiang Chuan believed it wouldn’t be long before the case broke open.
Cao Yan said: “Let me drive.”
Without arguing, Jiang Chuan pulled over, and they switched seats. Jiang Chuan began treating his wound.
The wound had reopened. Gritting his teeth, he bandaged it tightly.
Cao Yan glanced at it and frowned. “This isn’t good. We’ll need to stop at the next town and visit a hospital.”
Jiang Chuan leaned back in his seat, looking exhausted, and closed his eyes without responding.
Suddenly, he opened his eyes and pulled out his phone.
October 14th.
00:50.
Qin Tang’s birthday had already passed.
His fingers scrolled for a moment, but he hesitated and ultimately decided against it.
At this hour, she was probably asleep.
By dawn, Jiang Chuan had reached a nearby town hospital to treat his wound. By the time he left the hospital, it was already fully light outside.
For over a week, Qin Tang hadn’t received a call from Jiang Chuan—only occasional texts letting her know he was safe.
Jiang Chuan didn’t want her to worry, so he hadn’t told her he was on a mission with the police team.
She only learned about it after asking Cao Sheng.
At that moment, she was meeting Cao Sheng at a private café. “Did you find anything?”
Cao Sheng: “We didn’t find much at first, but last night, my people followed Du Xin and discovered that she met with Lu Sha. They know each other. Further investigation revealed that Lu Sha attended the same university where Du Xin pursued her graduate studies.”
“They shared a dorm room for a year.”
With this revelation, Du Xin became the prime suspect.
Qin Tang asked: “Are you certain it’s her?”
Cao Sheng shook his head. “We’re ninety percent sure based on speculation, but in investigations, we need evidence—and right now, we don’t have any.”
It was almost certain that Du Xin was involved, but without concrete evidence, they couldn’t arrest her. Even if they detained her for questioning, it would only tip off Lu Sha and Jiang Kun, giving them time to escape.
Their goal was to take down everyone at once.
Qin Tang asked: “What about Jiang Chuan’s side?”
Cao Sheng gave her a curious look. “You two haven’t been in contact?”
Qin Tang: “We’ve exchanged messages, but he hasn’t mentioned anything, and I didn’t ask.”
Cao Sheng nodded in understanding. Taking a sip of coffee, he didn’t go into specifics but said: “He’s injured.”
Qin Tang immediately grew anxious. “When did this happen? Is it serious?”
Cao Sheng replied: “It’s been nearly half a month. His wounds should be mostly healed by now.”
Qin Tang let out a sigh of relief but lowered her head, feeling a pang of hurt. Jiang Chuan hadn’t even mentioned his injury to her.
“Don’t worry,” Cao Sheng reassured her. “He’s not alone. He’ll be fine.”
“Mm.”
Qin Tang fell silent, stirring her coffee absently. After a moment, she looked up. “Cao Sheng, there’s something I want to ask you.”
Cao Sheng: “What is it?”
Qin Tang set down her spoon, placing both hands on the table as she looked at him earnestly. “You said before that Jiang Chuan’s police status was revoked because of that accident. Was it related to the crash?”
Cao Sheng hesitated for a moment. “Mm.”
“Why?”
Cao Sheng narrowed his eyes slightly, speaking cryptically: “That incident happened a long time ago, and the decision to revoke his status came from higher-ups. Once this case is resolved, if Jiang Chuan wishes, he can return to my team.”
“Is it because of his colleague’s death?” Qin Tang pressed.
Jiang Chuan had mentioned this before. He said he was working on this case to give his deceased colleague closure.
At the time, she hadn’t understood what accident he was referring to.
Now, she finally realized—it was the same accident she had been involved in.
Did Jiang Chuan know it was her?
If so, when did he find out?
Cao Sheng looked at Qin Tang, unsure whether he should disclose more. The aftermath of that accident hadn’t been straightforward. Lin Hao’s death was one factor. It had been an unexpected tragedy during their mission, and while Jiang Chuan bore some responsibility, no one could have predicted the outcome. If Lin Hao hadn’t died, perhaps the case would have been solved years ago.
The decision to punish Jiang Chuan could have been justified, but revoking his police status entirely was excessive. Pressure from above, combined with the investigation into Jiang Chuan’s identity, left Cao Sheng and Han Cheng with no choice but to follow orders. Whether Qin Tang’s parents had applied additional pressure, Cao Sheng wasn’t sure.
A leader always feels protective of their subordinates. Cao Sheng and Han Cheng genuinely cared for Jiang Chuan. He was highly capable, and they would have done anything to keep him if circumstances allowed.
Cao Sheng took another sip of coffee and answered cautiously: “Mm, it’s related to that.”
Qin Tang stared at him for a moment, piecing things together in her mind. She stopped asking further questions.
Cao Sheng stood up. “I’ll take my leave now.”
---
In the evening, Lu Sha met with Du Xin again. Their interaction seemed tense.
Cao Sheng instructed his men to get closer, and faintly, they overheard their argument.
Lu Sha glared coldly at Du Xin. “Senior, you’ve already taken the money. Isn’t it too late to say you’re scared now?”
Du Xin was filled with regret. Qin Tang’s earlier probing had left her uneasy. Qin Tang must have realized the Cartier necklace was genuine—a purchase involving such a large sum. In a moment of greed, Du Xin had made a grave mistake. The more money she spent, the emptier and more fearful she felt. She wanted to return the money to Lu Sha, but Lu Sha refused.
Once you’re on the wrong path, there’s no turning back.
Du Xin’s face turned pale. “I won’t tell anyone, but I won’t do these things anymore…”
Lu Sha sneered. “That’s not your decision to make.”
Du Xin grabbed her hand desperately. “Please, I’m begging you. I’ll give you all the money. Put in a good word for me—I don’t want to do this anymore.”
Lu Sha: “Do I look like I’m short on money?”
Du Xin froze, unable to utter a single word.
Lu Sha stood up and looked down at her coldly. “Senior, don’t say I didn’t warn you. If you don’t comply, neither you nor your family will fare well. Think carefully.”
After Lu Sha left, Du Xin covered her face in anguish.
Cao Sheng remained hidden in the shadows.
“Boss, we’ve recorded everything.”
“Good. Keep it safe.” Cao Sheng watched as Du Xin got up and left, then followed her closely with narrowed eyes.
---
That night, Qin Tang called Jiang Chuan.
She waited a long time before he finally answered.
His voice was hoarse: “Tang Tang.”
Qin Tang sat on the couch, hugging a pillow tightly. Her tone was cool: “Why didn’t you tell me you were injured?”
Jiang Chuan pressed his lips together, remaining silent.
He guessed Cao Sheng must have told her.
When he didn’t respond, Qin Tang assumed he felt guilty. She pressed her advantage: “Don’t forget—your life belongs to me, and so does your body. You have to tell me whenever you bleed or get hurt.”
Jiang Chuan chuckled softly. “This tough hide of mine? Only you seem to care.”
“What about Lu Sha? When I first arrived at Yi Station, Aqi told me women often came under the guise of charity work just to knock on your door late at night.”
“Aqi said that?” Jiang Chuan sat on the yellow earth, pulling out a cigarette and lighting it.
Cao Yan, who had been sleeping in the car, woke up to the sound of his alarm. Checking the time, he realized it was his turn to take over. Opening the car door, he ruffled his hair and said: “Your turn to rest.”
Jiang Chuan didn’t move, exhaling a few puffs of smoke. “You go back to sleep. I’ll finish this call.”
Cao Yan raised an eyebrow but climbed back into the car.
“On a mission?” Qin Tang asked. She had heard Cao Yan’s voice.
“Mm.” Jiang Chuan pinched the bridge of his nose. He hadn’t rested well in days and was feeling exhausted. Listening to her voice somehow felt more soothing than smoking. He lay back on the yellow earth, gazing up at the dim night sky.
“Is it raining there?”
“No. Is it raining in Beijing?”
“Yes, just now.”
Qin Tang stood up and walked to the balcony, closing the glass window and pulling the curtains shut. “Jiang Chuan.”
Jiang Chuan replied: “Mm.”
Qin Tang asked: “Do you like being a police officer?”
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