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◎ I’ve already put it on. How much longer will you take? ◎
Fu Jiaxi was caught between laughter and tears. “I might consider it... in my next life.”
Yue Jincheng suddenly spoke in a low voice, “You still want to?”
Fu Jiaxi smiled faintly. “Just thinking about it.”
Yue Jiayi chimed in, “Don’t talk about Mommy like that. I think about it too.”
“Little rascal, Mommy doesn’t mean it the way you do.”
“I want to swing! Daddy and Mommy, hold me tight. Whee~”
Yue Jiayi tucked his legs up, his body lifting off the ground like a mischievous monkey.
Once home,
the little one fell asleep quickly after his bath, but his sleep wasn’t peaceful. He would occasionally whimper, his face scrunching up as if he were about to cry.
Yue Jincheng stayed by his side, gently patting him. “Be good, Daddy’s here.”
The scare from earlier in the afternoon still lingered deep within him.
It wasn’t until midnight that Jiayi finally drifted into a deep sleep.
In the living room, Fu Jiaxi sat alone on the sofa, drinking by herself.
Her long hair cascaded down her back, with only a single spotlight illuminating her. Her silhouette blended into the low-saturation light, looking small, delicate, and frail.
From behind the sofa, Yue Jincheng gently wrapped his arms around her.
Fu Jiaxi raised her hand, pressing the rim of the wine glass to his lips, and they shared the drink.
Yue Jincheng said, “You went through a lot today.”
“It was our son who suffered,” Fu Jiaxi replied.
“We won’t go there anymore,” Yue Jincheng said in a calm tone.
“Aren’t you worried about what others will say?”
“For those who talk too much, I have ways to make them shut up.”
Fu Jiaxi’s expression remained indifferent. “It’s not necessary. He’s Jiayi’s grandfather. He wouldn’t harbor ill intentions toward him. In the future, just keep an eye on things. As long as our son is with you, they can’t do anything.”
Yue Jincheng pressed further: “When something happened today, why didn’t you call me?”
“Mingxin already called you, didn’t she?”
“But what about you? Why didn’t you call?”
In the quiet of the night, emotions were easier to discern.
Fu Jiaxi picked up on the underlying meaning in his words. “So, are you blaming me now?”
Yue Jincheng: “No. I just thought that when something happens, you’d think of me first.”
“How could I not think of you? Everyone there has the surname Yue—how could they not be connected to you?” Fu Jiaxi stopped herself after saying this. The words had slipped out without much thought, inappropriate and unnecessary, carrying obvious traces of emotion and resistance.
But to be fair, Yue Jincheng hadn’t fared any better.
“I’m sorry. I’m not in a good state today,” Fu Jiaxi said. “You should go rest early too. Drive safely.”
Yue Jincheng left quietly, and neither of them said a word as he departed.
On the way back, he drove with unusual agitation. When the traffic light turned green, he started off at a normal speed, only for a van behind him to honk incessantly. Yue Jincheng nearly pulled over, wanting to get out and beat the driver senseless.
At Tan Mansion’s private garage, he failed to park properly the first time and had to reverse twice before finally getting it right.
Yue Jincheng slammed his fist onto the steering wheel, letting out a short honk—a release of the pent-up emotions from the entire day.
“President Yue.” Jiao Rui answered the phone promptly.
Yue Jincheng took a deep breath and spoke in a low, steady voice: “Pass a message to Lao Gao. It’s time to start making the necessary arrangements. Notify the administrative department that we’ll be holding an emergency board meeting next week.”
Jiao Rui was well aware of everything Yue Jincheng had been secretly planning these past two years, each step meticulously interconnected.
This particular move, however, came earlier than expected.
“President Yue, is this really the right time to proceed?” Secretary Jiao dutifully reminded him.
Yue Jincheng’s patience had run thin. “Do as I say.”
“Understood.” Jiao Rui dared not say another word.
Two weeks later, Yue Pu learned that he had been officially “retired.”
Over the years, although Yue Jincheng had been in charge of Bofeng Group, Yue Pu still held the position of chairman. While he no longer wielded real power, appearances still had to be maintained. Because of this, even though he had retreated into the background due to illness, his influence and connections within the company remained deeply rooted.
Whenever Yue Jincheng made major decisions or reforms, Yue Pu always managed to hear the news in advance, subtly interfering or outright obstructing progress.
There were many members on the board, but only a few carried real weight. Half of them were Yue Pu’s old subordinates. Though they outwardly submitted to Yue Jincheng, they harbored their own ambitions. Human nature being what it is, they wanted Bofeng to reach its peak during their tenure. They didn’t want Yue Jincheng to outshine them or let themselves be overshadowed by the younger generation.
The emergency meeting lasted from 8:30 AM until 1:00 AM the following morning.
Tensions ran high, with fierce debates erupting.
Some senior executives even slammed the table in protest, accusing Yue Jincheng of going against tradition and showing no familial affection, calling him a cold-blooded animal.
Unfazed, Yue Jincheng tossed the Parker gold pen he had been twirling between his fingers onto the center of the rosewood table. Calmly, he spoke: “Since you’re so loyal to the former chairman, I’ll grant your wish. Retire alongside my father and enjoy your twilight years.”
“Yue Jincheng! You… don’t push it too far!”
Yue Jincheng turned to Jiao Rui beside him. “Secretary Jiao, once Director Jin completes his retirement formalities, make sure to send him the finest fishing rod to celebrate his leisure. Don’t let boredom drive him mad or cloud his judgment of the situation.”
At this moment, he stood tall, his ambition blazing, wielding absolute control over everything.
Jiao Rui stood up at the right moment, speaking in an official tone: “Next, we’ll vote on the four resolutions discussed during this meeting.”
In the end, under careful consideration, the vote passed unanimously.
It was said that upon learning he had been removed as chairman of Bofeng Group, Yue Pu suffered a heart attack, collapsing on the spot and being rushed to surgery.
The tragic scene, exaggerated to evoke pity and guilt, inevitably reached Yue Jincheng’s ears.
After hearing about it, Yue Jincheng felt a pang of sorrow and instructed Jiao Rui to send a flower basket to the hospital, wishing his father a speedy recovery.
His eldest uncle cursed furiously: “You ungrateful wretch!”
Yue Jincheng calmly replied: “Three years ago, I already picked out a gravesite for him. It’s nestled against the mountains and water, with excellent feng shui, ensuring prosperity for generations to come. Uncle, there’s no need for concern. I’ve known the owner of this mountain cemetery for years. If you’re interested, I’ll arrange a fine resting place for you as well, allowing you to continue your brotherly bond with my father.”
Perfect. One more hospital bed was likely to be occupied soon.
“President Yue.” Jiao Rui entered the office. The room was dark, illuminated only by the neon lights of the city outside the floor-to-ceiling windows. Yue Jincheng sat there, cloaked in a hazy, somber glow.
He crushed the cigarette butt in the ashtray, narrowing his eyes slightly amidst the smoke.
He rarely smoked, and such solitary indulgence was even rarer.
Jiao Rui said: “Lately, Yunzong has been very active. Although news of the former chairman’s hospitalization was supposed to be kept secret, so many people know about it now and are visiting him, spreading the word. This is all thanks to Yunzong’s covert operations.”
Yue Jincheng remained unmoved, lighting another cigarette.
“And Old Li discovered that he’s been in frequent contact with an overseas institution. This institution is a listed financial company specializing in foreign exchange and currencies, with its own independent trading system.” Jiao Rui continued, “That’s all we know for now. Should we investigate further?”
Yue Jincheng flicked the ash off his cigarette. “How long have they been in contact?”
“Not long. They probably met at the end of last year, but communication has become more frequent in the past two months.”
“Have Old Li continue monitoring.”
“Understood, President Yue.” Jiao Rui reminded him, “However, public opinion regarding your father is putting immense pressure on you. Be cautious.”
That evening, Yue Jincheng visited the hospital.
The VIP ward was warmly decorated, equipped with all modern appliances. Fresh flowers were delivered daily, symbolizing a swift recovery. It didn’t feel like a place of suffering but rather a sanctuary.
He entered, hands clasped behind his back, standing three meters away from the bed, silently observing Yue Pu.
Yue Pu coughed heavily, his eyes devoid of vitality, looking incredibly weak.
Yue Jincheng approached slowly, glancing at the IV drip bag.
Yue Pu’s eyes flashed with alertness and suspicion.
Yue Jincheng raised his hand, lightly touching the IV regulator.
“What… what are you doing?” Yue Pu gasped in panic, quickly reaching for the call button.
Yue Jincheng effortlessly brushed his hand aside, his gaze cold. “Dad, there’s no one else here. You can rest.”
After a few moments of silence, Yue Pu turned his face away, refusing to look at him.
The earlier signs of illness disappeared effortlessly, replaced by his usual cold, sharp demeanor.
“You’ve certainly grown into quite the man. Your mother didn’t give birth to you for nothing,” Yue Pu sneered. “A wolf pup bent on revenge. No one has your patience.”
Hidden in the shadows, lying low and biding his time, Yue Jincheng had been quietly accumulating strength for this moment.
His face remained expressionless as he asked, “If you knew then what would happen today, would you still have done all of this to me?”
“No,” Yue Pu replied with a faint smile, his gaze soft like that of a loving father. “I would have been even harsher, colder, and more ruthless with you. I would have pushed you to your limits, turning you into a more heartless machine. Only then could you develop greater ambition, sharper instincts, and the drive to seize power and protect everything you hold dear.”
Yue Pu continued, “By protecting yourself, you’re also protecting Bofeng. You and this family, this business—we’re all bound by fate. Of course, I’d be able to enjoy my twilight years in peace.”
An intense silence enveloped the room.
Not even the faintest trace of disinfectant lingered in the air.
Lying on the hospital bed, Yue Pu’s frail frame and deeply etched wrinkles spoke of his age, yet his eyes burned brightly, reminiscent of his prime years.
Yue Jincheng remained calm throughout.
After letting him bask in his fleeting smugness for another minute, he finally spoke.
“When I returned to Bofeng, did you think I came back for this inheritance? What I wanted was for your other son—my brother—to never achieve his ambitions. I wanted him beneath me, ensuring he’d never get what he desired. Father, you thought you understood me perfectly, but not quite.”
Yue Jincheng spoke evenly. “Bofeng is merely a tool to me—something I can keep thriving as long as I wish. But if one day I lose interest, guess how far behind Bofeng will fall?”
He had his own company, Duchen, which continued to grow even after he rejoined the family. Over the years, Yue Jincheng had invested in and planned its future with vision and care.
Yue Pu’s face darkened instantly. “You… you… cough, cough, cough! You’re my son! How can you hate me so much?”
“For you, there’s no need to waste emotions. I’ve said it before: as long as Jiaxi isn’t troubled, this family can still remain intact. Father, you were the one who broke the rules first.”
With that, Yue Jincheng turned and left the room. Outside, he calmly instructed the nurse, “My father’s emotions are unstable, and he’s having trouble sleeping. When necessary, administer sedatives to ensure he rests properly.”
From that day forward, rumors and gossip were abruptly silenced.
None of the relatives from the Yue family visited again, claiming it was Yue Pu’s own request. He publicly stated that he had long wanted to retire and enjoy his leisure. From now on, all decisions regarding Bofeng would rest solely with Yue Jincheng.
Yue Yunzong was utterly frustrated, unable to comprehend how the situation had reversed so completely.
There Yue Jincheng sat, unshaken, like a fisherman calmly waiting by the riverbank.
In the VIP lounge of a private club, Yue Yunzong vented his frustration, glaring at Yue Shaoheng with disdain. “Can’t you show some ambition? We’re blood brothers! Why should an outsider like him take charge?!”
Fresh off a cycling session, Yue Shaoheng wore sleek sportswear that clashed sharply with Yue Yunzong’s polished suit-and-tie demeanor.
Uninterested in the family business, Yue Shaoheng maintained a detached, indifferent expression.
Yue Yunzong sighed in exasperation. “If only you’d come back to help me, Yue Jincheng wouldn’t dare act so arrogantly.”
Yue Shaoheng replied, “With Big Brother here, Bofeng thrives, and the family prospers. What’s wrong with that?”
Yue Yunzong shot back, “Have you forgotten? It was him who stole the woman you loved!”
That struck a nerve.
Yue Shaoheng’s face darkened. “It’s been so long. Why bring it up now?”
“How can you be so spineless? After being robbed of your love, how can you remain so calm?” Yue Yunzong taunted him. “How many years have you worn those green hats, and you still—”
“Enough, Second Brother!” Yue Shaoheng cut him off sharply. “If you truly cared about me, you wouldn’t be rubbing salt into my wounds.”
“Pathetic and weak,” Yue Yunzong sneered, his voice brimming with contempt. “A real man would seek revenge for losing the one he loves.”
Yue Shaoheng deflated. “What’s the point? Jiaxi no longer loves me. As long as she’s happy, that’s enough for me.”
Yue Yunzong’s attempt to turn him against their brother failed.
This hopeless romantic, his second younger brother, was ruled entirely by his heart. Handsome but naive, nearly thirty years old, he remained pure and untouched by worldly affairs.
“No wonder Fu Jiaxi looked down on you,” Yue Yunzong delivered the final blow, leaving with a murderous glint in his eyes.
________________________________________
Spring days were fleeting. By April, hints of early summer occasionally wafted through the air.
Yue Pu spent over half a month in the hospital recovering. During this time, Fu Jiaxi sent Yue Jiayi to visit the elderly man.
Jiayi was thoughtful, saying, “Grandpa, get well soon. Once you recover, I’ll come back to play chess with you.”
Yue Pu remained silent for a long while.
Jiayi, ever perceptive, added, “Don’t worry. Mom didn’t tell me to say this—it’s my own idea.”
Yue Pu chuckled bitterly. “You little rascal—you’re more useful than your father.”
Jiayi stayed until 8:30 PM before leaving. Fu Jiaxi waited outside the hospital.
One of Yue Pu’s trusted aides approached her. “Miss Fu, the master has arranged for a car to take you home.”
A light drizzle began to fall, the temperature dropping.
Fu Jiaxi declined, taking her son’s hand and walking into the rain under an umbrella.
“Mom, why didn’t we take Grandpa’s car? You’re still sick,” Jiayi asked curiously.
“Because…” Fu Jiaxi hesitated.
She didn’t know how to explain to her child.
Because your father and grandfather’s relationship is fraught with tension.
Because your grandfather never liked your father when he was young.
Because your grandfather ended up in the hospital because of your father.
These truths were too difficult for Fu Jiaxi to articulate.
In a child’s mind, family and loved ones were the closest and most reliable bonds in the world. Even amidst her divorce from Yue Jincheng, Jiayi still sensed that despite their separation, his parents remained harmonious and loving toward him.
“Mom, I feel like Dad doesn’t really like Grandpa. And everyone else—Uncle, Aunt, Brother—they all seem afraid of Dad.” Jiayi was puzzled. “Dad’s so nice. Why are they scared of him?”
Fu Jiaxi squeezed his hand gently. “Dad’s great—he’s just busy with work and tends to be serious.”
“Then you should kiss Dad more often. He’ll smile.”
Fu Jiaxi couldn’t help but laugh. “You little mischief.”
Jiayi muttered to himself, “Next time, I’ll explain to everyone and clear up the misunderstanding. I’ll give them candy so they don’t misunderstand Dad anymore.”
Children saw the world in simple terms, dividing people into “good” and “bad,” “kind” and “evil.”
Fu Jiaxi didn’t have the heart to shatter the innocence of reality for him.
The truth wasn’t always a beautiful fairy tale. It was filled with calculations, insincerity, grudges, and grievances.
The kindness shown by the Yue family wasn’t always genuine.
Fu Jiaxi felt conflicted, torn between concern and hesitation. If she ever returned to the Yue household, would Jiayi also be forced to change, becoming hypocritical and worldly?
“Mom, I want to see Dad.”
Snapping out of her thoughts, Fu Jiaxi nodded. “Alright.”
They arrived at Tan Mansion, catching Yue Jincheng by surprise.
“Hello, Dad. Have you eaten yet?”
“Hello, Son. Seeing you makes me hungry.”
“Is it because I’m so sweet?”
“You’re a stinky kid. Your mom’s the sweet one.” Yue Jincheng chuckled.
“Then hurry up and eat Mom!”
Yue Jincheng picked him up, weighing him in his arms as they walked into the living room. “Not eating Mom now. Saving her for later tonight.”
Fu Jiaxi rolled her eyes. “Can you be serious for once?”
“Oh, then let me eat properly.”
“Yue Jincheng.”
Jiayi was distracted by a new LEGO set and dashed off to open it.
“By the way, Jiao Rui forwarded a document. It’s for a financial forum in Shanghai. The guest list looks good—I recognize a few names. Take a look at the schedule. If you’re interested, I’ll book your ticket.”
The document was in the study. Yue Jincheng led her inside.
Fu Jiaxi read carefully, unaware that he quietly closed the door behind them.
The lighting was dim, with only a reading lamp illuminating the wooden-floored study. A faint woody fragrance permeated the air.
Yue Jincheng sat beside her, pretending to review the document together.
Gradually, he leaned closer, pressing his body against her arm.
“Don’t fool around. Jiayi’s outside,” Fu Jiaxi warned, fully aware of his intentions.
“You think I bought all those LEGOs for nothing? Once he starts building, not even thunder can distract him.”
“You’re the one making thunder.”
“I’m pounding stakes.”
“…”
Under his teasing touch, Fu Jiaxi’s breathing grew uneven. “Stop. There’s nothing prepared here.”
“There is.” Yue Jincheng reached into a storage compartment and pulled out a brand-new box. “Not just in the study—the bedroom’s stocked too. Convenient anywhere.”
His voice grew husky, eager to pull her into a stormy embrace.
“Ah, there’s a call.”
Her phone rang.
“Just answer it,” Yue Jincheng said dismissively, unfazed by the caller ID.
Fu Jiaxi cleared her throat, brushing his wandering hands aside before answering.
“What is it?” she asked Yu Yanqing.
“I have two invitations for a forum in Shanghai. Want to join me?”
“Hosted jointly by the Asian Development Bank and the Association?” Fu Jiaxi asked.
“Yes.” Yu Yanqing sounded surprised. “How did you know?”
“Sss…” Fu Jiaxi instinctively sucked in a breath, turning her head.
Yue Jincheng had completely abandoned decorum, lifting her shirt hem and planting kisses below.
“What’s going on?” Yu Yanqing asked, puzzled.
Yue Jincheng mouthed two words silently: “Keep going.”
“No, nothing’s wrong,” Fu Jiaxi glared at him, her heart racing.
Yu Yanqing explained the forum’s itinerary, his voice warm and composed.
Meanwhile, Yue Jincheng intensified his ministrations, shamelessly pushing boundaries, his actions growing bolder.
Fu Jiaxi pressed down on the back of his head.
The pressure only deepened his kisses, his lips and tongue exploring further.
Summoning every ounce of self-control, she suppressed all sighs, her eyes red with frustration and desire, glaring at him accusingly.
Finally, he stopped.
Fu Jiaxi steadied her voice before continuing the call.
Yu Yanqing found the atmosphere slightly odd but thought nothing of it.
But the next moment—
Yue Jincheng deliberately spoke aloud.
Mischievous, provocative, intentional.
“I’m already wearing it… how much longer do you need?”
Fu Jiaxi whipped her head around, coughing violently, her cheeks flushed crimson, her heartbeat thundering.
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