Ch. 41..50
Chapter 041 Equally dumb
Zhuang Liu looked at Tan Rou tenderly and shook his head with a helpless smile. He had always known that Tan Rou had a special kind of ability. No matter what had happened, she would always have a way out of it.
In Zhuang Liu’s eyes, Tan Rou was his guiding light. She was once in a position that he looked up upon. He chased after this light and watched silently.
But this time, fate has finally acknowledged Zhuang Liu’s feelings. They were mercifully allowed to meet again and even gave Zhuang Liu a chance to become closer to Tan Rou.
This made Zhuang Liu realize that Tan Rou wasn’t a light that he needed to look up to. This girl was strong and calm, but she also had a cute side. She was sly and playful, and her mind was always filled with many new ideas.
What else could he do? Zhuang Liu only wanted to pamper her in every way possible. No matter what Tan Rou wanted to do, he would always stand firmly behind her.
On the other side, Tan Jing and Zhou Wu took the room card and came to the presidential suite’s floor.
Zhou Wu stuck both his hands into his pockets and walked unsteadily, “Miss Tan, we can’t just knock on every door one by one, right?”
Tan Jing sneered. “What’s the use of having you? Had you tail her up earlier, we wouldn’t be in so much trouble right now. In the end, I still have to do the dirty work.”
Zhou Wu grinned cheekily. “Aiyo, if not for the missy of the Tan Family, never in a million years would I have the money to afford a presidential suite. It is all thanks to you!”
Although Tan Jing’s heart ached for the money, she also felt that it was because of her identity as the daughter of the Tan Family that she was able to make the receptionist look stupid. In exchange for this good opportunity to strike a blow at Tan Rou, she felt very pleased. She snorted coldly and did not say anything else.
However, the two of them stood in the corridor like two headless flies, completely clueless about where to begin. Tan Jing clenched her fists and cursed in her heart. It was all that damn receptionist’s fault for not telling her Tan Rou’s room number.
The more Tan Jing thought about it, the angrier she got. She was the real missy of the Tan family. Even if the matter was blown up, how much attention could Tan Rou alone garner? When the news breaks out, perhaps this hotel could also bask in the light and get some free publicity.
As for the receptionist, she was putting on an act and talking about privacy. To put it bluntly, she didn’t have enough money. If she had enough power and money, the receptionist couldn’t care less about privacy!
Tan Jing paced in the corridor angrily. Her mind was constantly thinking about how to find Tan Rou and capture the unglamorous side of her on film.
In the room, Tan Rou saw Tan Jing and Zhou Wu through the peephole. When she saw the two of them hesitating and pacing in the corridor, she can’t help but remark. “The two of them are equally dumb. How could such a pair still scheme to do bad things.”
Zhuang Liu also laughed. “What do you plan to do next?”
Tan Rou smiled and turned to look at Zhuang Liu. “They’re so stupid that I can’t stand it anymore. Naturally, I’ll help them. Since this is your territory, can you do me a favor?”
Zhuang Liu smiled. He liked Tan Rou’s straightforwardness. Just like that, she naturally told him what she needed from him. This made Zhuang Liu extremely happy. “Of course!”
Tan Jing was still pacing around in exasperation. Zhou Wu scratched his head. “We won’t be able to find her anytime soon. Sister Jing, why don’t we enter our room first!”
Tan Jing glared fiercely at Zhou Wu. “What do you want? Where did you get the balls to still want to be in the same room with me?”
Zhou Wu secretly rolled his eyes. He secretly cursed Tan Jing for being so narcissistic. Did she think that he fancied her? Her barely average appearance, coupled with her current expression, was even more mean and frightening. Even if he was frantic, he would not have any thoughts about this old witch.
Zhou Wu said, “How could that be? I really don’t fancy you in the least bit!”
Unexpectedly, Tan Jing’s expression turned even worse. “What do you mean? Are you saying that I can’t interest you? What right do you have to not like me?”
Seeing Tan Jing’s expression, Zhou Wu knew that he had said the wrong thing again. He wished he could slap himself. After all, no woman wanted to hear others say that they didn’t interest them.
Zhou Wu felt that Tan Jing was even more pretentious than Tan Rou previously was. Admitting that he fancied her would mean that he had ill intentions towards her while denying would mean that she wasn’t good enough for him. He couldn’t defend himself, and Zhou Wu was starting to regret following Tan Jing up.
Seeing that Tan Jing was about to flare up again, Zhou Wu hurriedly said, “I was the one who was in a hurry to use the toilet in the room! Sister Jing, don’t worry. I know that I’m not good enough for you, that’s why I said that. I don’t dare to offend you. Standing here aimlessly definitely isn’t the way to go. I’ll go into the room to use the toilet first, okay?”
Tan Jing rolled her eyes and reluctantly agreed to Zhou Wu’s suggestion. The two of them swiped their cards one after the other and entered the presidential suite.
Chapter 042 Picking up trash?
What Tan Rou and Zhou Wu didn’t know was that under the arrangement of the front desk lady, the room they walked into happened to be right opposite the room Tan Rou was in.
The person they were looking for was right in front of them, but the two of them had no choice but to head into the room first and think of another way.
Although Tan Jing despised Zhou Wu, she thought that he was still useful, so this was the best she could do for now. Moreover, the guests on this floor were all wealthy and noble. If someone she knew saw her and Zhou Wu together in the hotel corridor, that would be really bad. It would be wise to enter the room first and be more discreet about it.
Not long after, a waiter walked out of the elevator and led another well-dressed woman to the door of the room.
The waiter knocked on Tan Rou’s door and deliberately raised his voice to shout, “Miss Tan, are you there? Miss Tan! Miss Tan!”
In the room, Tan Rou was calm and she did not make a sound.
However, Tan Jing, who was in the opposite room, suddenly became excited and exclaimed in surprise, “Now, I’ve caught you! So you’re right across from me! It seems that the little receptionist brat is quite sensible after all !”
Zhou Wu also leaned closer to listen. When he heard Tan Jing’s words, he asked in confusion, “What does it have to do with the receptionist? Isn’t it just pure coincidence that we happen to be opposite each other?”
Tan Jing was still proud of herself. “What do you know!” I told you that she was just a small front desk clerk. How could she not give me face? It wasn’t convenient for her to tell me directly, so she intentionally arranged the room opposite her. Now, she even sent someone to shout so loudly. Isn’t she just reminding me! ?”
Zhou Wu nodded and didn’t forget to suck up to her. “That’s true. Sister Jing, looks like we still need you for these kinds of things. So what do we do now? Do we go out now?”
Tan Jing smiled. “There’s no rush. Let’s wait for Tan Rou to come out first. She’s very cunning now. If she finds out about us and refuses to open the door, all our previous efforts will be wasted!”
Zhou Wu took out his phone. “Alright, I am ready. I’ll definitely record all of her scandals!”
Outside the door, after repeated knockings by the waiter, Tan Rou slowly opened the door and smiled politely. “I’m sorry to have kept you waiting.”
The capable-looking woman beside the waiter shook her head and said, “It’s alright. Is Mr. Zhuang inside?”
Tan Rou side stepped and said, “Yes, please come in.”
Meanwhile, on the other side, when Tan Jing heard them say “Mr. Zhuang” she held onto the doorknob excitedly. This time, she caught her together with a man in a room. Let’s see how Tan Rou is going to defend herself! Thus, before the woman and Tan Rou entered the room, she quickly opened the door of her room.
The doors to both rooms were wide open, and they stared at each other’s faces.
Tan Rou stood calmly on the spot and looked at Tan Jing who was opposite her. She couldn’t help but laugh in her heart. Tan Jing would play off as a really good fish. She wouldn’t even wait a second before taking the bait.
Tan Jing opened the door and pretended to be surprised. “Xiao Rou! You’re really here!”
Tan Rou nodded. “I am indeed here. But you, why are you here?”
Tan Jing said hypocritically, “I heard from a friend that you were here with a man. I was afraid that you would do something foolish, so I quickly came here to look for you. Rou Rou, a girl’s innocence is the most important thing. Don’t sell yourself out for money!”
Tan Rou laughed. “Tan Jing, we had already fallen out the last time, and now you’re pretending to be sisters again You’re really making me laugh. Can you stop acting?”
Tan Jing’s expression froze on her face. She was a little embarrassed. Since she was already exposed by Tan Rou, she did not care anymore. “No matter what, I can’t watch you unscrupulously climb into the bed of an old man.”
After Tan Jing said that, she shouted again, “Where is the person inside? You dare to do it but you dare not admit it. Come out! Tan Rou, look, is the man you found really someone who can’t be seen in the light?”
Tan Rou turned her head and looked at Zhuang Liu with a smile. “I’m sorry to have affected you. Are you willing to come over? This proves that you can see the light.”
Zhuang Liu calmly pushed his wheelchair to the door and nodded slightly as a polite greeting.
Tan Jing was shocked by the man’s cold appearance, but when she saw the wheelchair under Zhuang Liu, she was a little disdainful. “Hmph, Tan Rou, I thought you found a rich man. I didn’t expect you to fall into such a sorry state and even settled for a disabled person. After all, only someone like that would find you attractive. ”
After Tan Jing said that, she turned to give way to Zhou Wu. Zhou Wu secretly took a lot of photos behind him.
The waiter could not stand it anymore. “Miss, please show some respect. This is our boss, Third Young Master Zhuang! And the gentleman at the back, please delete the photos or we will call the police!”
Chapter 043 Three person
Tan Jing’s eyes widened. “What? Third Young Master Zhuang?” She looked at the man from head to toe in surprise. She did not expect the man in front of her to be her unlucky ex-fiancé, Zhuang Liu.
Tan Jing chuckled, she laughed out loud and mocked Tan Rou. “I say, Tan Rou, is life with the Tao family so hard that you even started to pick up my trash? A fiancé whom I didn’t want, a man who is about to die of illness, and you won’t let him go?”
Zhuang Liu was not angry. He raised his chin slightly and stared coldly at Tan Jing.
Tan Jing felt a little uncomfortable being stared at, it was as if she was being stared at by a poisonous snake. She felt uncomfortable all over, so she gradually withdrew her smug smile. However, she still looked at Tan Rou proudly, “The fake daughter of the Tan family secretly meets the real daughter’s ex-fiancé. Tan Rou, do you like this headline? Let’s see it on tomorrow’s entertainment news!”
Tan Jing tilted her head to look at Zhou Wu. Zhou Wu waved the phone in his hand, indicating that he had already taken the picture, he also grinned at Tan Rou. “If you want to blame someone, blame it on your own bad luck. You bumped into me. I said that I would take revenge on you, but you never expected it to be so soon, right? Hahaha!”
Tan Rou nodded. “Indeed, I didn’t expect that we would meet again so soon. It seems that the beating you received last time was a little too light. It didn’t teach you a lesson.”
Zhou Wu laughed sinisterly. “I admit that you’re ruthless. You have your ways, but I, Zhou Wu, am not a pushover. I can’t do anything to you, but I can make your reputation rot and stink! What can you do to me?”
Tan Jing thought that victory was in her hands, she began to gloat. “Tan Rou, I bet you didn’t see that coming, right? Last time, I didn’t manage to catch you and Zhou Zheng having a private meeting. This time, you gave me a bigger surprise. Unfortunately, what’s mine is mine. You can’t take it away, and what I don’t want…”
Tan Jing glanced at Zhuang Liu’s legs and laughed, “Just take it away! I just don’t know how the reporters will report about this interesting matter tomorrow.”
Tan Rou’s heart was originally calm. She was just admiring the faces of the two villains in front of her. However, Tan Jing kept harping on Zhuang Liu’s illness. This made Tan Rou angry. She didn’t want Zhuang Liu to be criticized by such a person just so he could help her!
Tan Rou did not want to listen to it anymore and said, “There’s no need to let the reporters report tomorrow. I forgot to introduce her. This lady is the reporter from Entertainment Express that Zhuang Liu invited over, Miss Wang.”
The capable-looking woman who had been standing quietly at the side nodded when she heard that. “Everyone had a heated conversation just now, so I did not interrupt. I was invited to interview Mr. Zhuang and Miss Tan.”
Tan Jing’s smug smile froze in a moment. “Interview? An imposter and a sickly man. What’s there to interview? I think you guys made it up at the last minute to cover up the fact that the two of them are having a private meeting!”
Tan Rou’s expression turned cold. “You don’t get to tell me about his body! If we’re having a private meeting just because we were in the same room, what about you? You went to great lengths to break off the Zhuang family’s engagement just to come here and have a private meeting with a hooligan with a criminal record?”
Tan jing screamed, “Shut up! How can I have a private meeting with him!”
Zhou Wu also said angrily, “Tan Rou, don’t be so desperate and bite people!”
Tan Rou sneered. “Then you’re alone in a room. According to your train of thought, isn’t it a private meeting? The eldest daughter of the Tan family quickly broke off the engagement and actually went on a secret date with the man who was detained and released from prison. Do you like this headline?”
Zhuang Liu turned his head and hid his smile. This little fox must have already predicted what tricks Tan Jing would use to frame her, so she had already thought of an excuse to give her a taste of her own medicine.
Reporter Wang, who was beside her, could not help but laugh. “Miss Tan’s headline is very eye-catching. It’s more concise and clear-cut than our colleagues in the office.”
Tan Jing gritted her teeth. “Tan Rou, are you trying to play games with me?”
Tan Rou smiled. “Didn’t you start this game first? If you can’t win, you’ll get angry out of embarrassment like a sore loser? At worst, both our stories are published tomorrow. Our side will openly invite the reporters over for a press conference at Young Master Zhuang’s hotel. We have nothing to hide. However, on your side, it’s hard to explain.”
Tan Jing instantly understood. “This is Zhuang Liu’s Hotel? You did it on purpose! This was a trap set up by you!” After saying that, she glared at Zhou Wu who was beside her. “You also had a hand in tricking me into coming here?”
Zhou Wu cried out in injustice, “How would I know whose hotel this is! How could I be with them!”
Chapter 044 The cheeky Zhuang Liu
Tan Jing was so angry that her eyes were red. She glared at Tan Rou and said, “So what if this hotel is his. You showed up at his hotel suite alone. Doesn’t that mean that your relationship with him is out of the ordinary?”
Tan Rou did not say anything. Xiao Mo, who was in the room, walked over. “What do you mean alone? Am I not human? Reporter Wang, you have to testify for me. I’m still here!”
Reporter Wang nodded. “Mr. Xiao and Mr. Zhuang were the ones who sent me the video just now. They invited me over to continue with the previous interview. I can prove it.”
When Tan Jing and Zhou Wu saw Xiao Mo walking out of the room, the words that they had prepared were all stuck in their mouths. They could not say anything else.
Tan Jing’s gaze was as if she wanted to kill Zhou Wu. Look at what you have done!
Zhou Wu was at a loss for words. At this moment, he had no more excuses. He indeed saw Tan Rou get into the VIP elevator, but he did not expect there to be three people in the room!
Tan Rou looked at the two of them calmly and admired the changing awkward expressions on their faces. She could not help but feel sorry for their stupidity.
When Tan Jing saw that the situation had escalated to this point, she felt ashamed. She was angry and embarrassed. Even the way she looked at Zhou Wu was filled with disgust. Had he not called her so excitedly, would she be shamed by Tan Rou now?
Tan Jing was a really “talented” person. Her attitude changed very quickly. She didn’t even mention the slander she had directed at Tan Rou just now. In an instant, she put on a fake smile and tried to probe Tan Rou, “Xiao Rou, so all of this is a misunderstanding.”
Zhuang Liu had been silent the whole time. Seeing that everyone was making a scene, his heart ached for Tan Rou even more. Although she had the upper hand, who were all these people around her? They were like bugs, not biting people, but constantly causing a nuisance to Tan Rou and disgusting her.
It was because of these people, Tan Rou would occasionally reveal a depressed and troubled side of herself.
During these few meetings, Zhuang Liu not only saw Tan Rou’s warm and powerful side. He was always silently watching Tan Rou, trying to guess her feelings.
At the Tan family ball, when he met Tan Rou again, he realized that this girl always revealed expressions that he could not understand from time to time. It was as if she was recalling something, but also as if she was just in a daze, her expression was ethereal, and it didn’t seem like an emotion that she should possess at this age.
Zhuang Liu couldn’t help but think, what exactly happened to her? What other things that he didn’t know of hurt her so much?
That state of Tan Rou made Zhuang Liu feel like he could never reach her, afraid that she would just disappear into nothingness by herself.
Fortunately, every time she revealed that expression, a determined expression that exuded vitality would soon ensue on Tan Rou’s face.
However, Zhuang Liu did not want to see Tan Rou in such a sad state anymore. He wanted Tan Rou to be by his side without any worries. Although he did not know what exactly happened, Zhuang Liu knew that all of this had something to do with Tan Jing and the Tan family.
Seeing how Tan Jing’s attitude could change in a blink of an eye, Zhuang Liu felt even more disgust in his heart.
Zhuang Liu raised his head and looked at Tan Rou’s expression. He realized that she was only laughing mockingly and was not actually affected by the ordeal. It was as if she was already used to Tan Jing’s drama.
Zhuang Liu looked at Tan Jing coldly, “Miss Tan, you kept accusing us of being indecent just now, and now you’re saying that it’s a misunderstanding. It seems like you can retract what you said in just a second. You’ve made a big joke out of yourself, and now you want to pass it off lightly? I didn’t know that the Tan family has such a family upbringing and taught such principles.”
As soon as Zhuang Liu finished speaking, Xiao Mo tacitly continued, “Third young master, you’ve forgotten that Miss Tan has just been reunited with the Tan family. It hasn’t been long.”
Zhuang Liu seemed to have just remembered, “Oh, that’s right, so that’s how it is. But I remember that the Tao family is gentle and polite. They wouldn’t have raised such a child. Seeing how Miss Tan is behaving, I’m afraid it’s just her genes acting up, and Uncle Tan hasn’t had the chance to teach her yet.”
Zhuang Liu looked at Tan Jing with a smile. “It’s a father’s fault for not teaching his children. I’ll remind Boss Tan not to forget his concern for Miss Tan.”
Tan Jing glared at Zhuang Liu angrily. “What do you mean?”
Xiao Mo said to Zhuang Liu with a smile, “Speaking of which, I remembered something. It’s really amazing. I love to raise flowers. Some flowers bloom beautifully no matter where they are planted.”
Then, Xiao Mo glanced at Tan Jing and continued, “But some flowers are wilting no matter how you nurture them. Their roots are rotten. In the past, I didn’t understand it. Later, the florist told me that this is a breed determined by genes. You can’t force it!”
Zhuang Liu nodded with a smile. “That’s true!”
Chapter 045 Said something crazy
Tan Jing was so angry that her face was twisted. “You guys are both openly and secretly mocking me. You’re mocking our Tan family!”
Zhuang Liu put on a serious and innocent expression. “We’re just talking about flowers. How are we mocking you?”
Tan Jing held her breath, but she couldn’t admit that she was offended either.
Zhuang Liu pretended to scold Xiao Mo, “Xiao Mo, I was talking to Miss Tan about something. Why are you talking about flowers all of a sudden? Look, Miss Tan misunderstood.”
Xiao Mo held back his laughter, “Yes, it just came into my mind. Miss Tan, please don’t think too much.”
Tan Rou watched the two cheeky people from the side. After a while, she even joined them in belittling Tan Jing. She even had an innocent look on her face while secretly mocking Tan Jing in her heart.
Zhuang Liu, who usually acted like a big, adorable dog around her now seemed like a scheming wolf.
Tan Jing could no longer put on an act. “Tan Rou, you really found two good lackeys. Are you just going to watch them insult me like this? What they said was also an insult to dad and mom. Are you going to let them be?”
Tan Rou smiled even more happily, “Tan Jing, by dad and mom, are you referring to the Tao family or the Tan Family? If it’s the Tao family, I believe Zhuang Liu’s words just now were very clear. They are well-mannered and civilized people. To think that you’ve lived under their roof for more than ten years and haven’t learned anything at all.”
Tan Rou looked at Tan Jing’s increasingly ugly expression and felt extremely relieved, “As for the parents from the Tan family, they are your father and mother. What do they have to do with me? They have never even paid a day of attention to me. I’m just glad that they haven’t taught me anything wrong.”
Tan Jing gnashed her teeth. “You ungrateful wretch, I want to go back and tell mom about everything you’ve said!”
Tan Rou waved her hand nonchalantly. “Quickly go and suck up to your mother. Don’t come out and harm others. I’ve already told you last time, don’t provoke me. Otherwise, I’ll teach you a lesson every time I see you!”
Tan Jing snorted coldly and did not forget to threaten, “Do you think that by relying on Zhuang Liu, you can flaunt your power? I’m warning you, don’t use today’s incident to scare me. If this reporter dares to write nonsense, I’ll let my parents avenge me! A sickly person is nothing more than a grasshopper after autumn! And yet you still think you can count on him?”
Xiao Mo reminded her bluntly, “Miss Tan, you have to take responsibility for what you’ve said. You can question the Zhuang family’s strength all you want. However, please don’t cry out in the future.”
Xiao Mo looked down on Tan Jing even more. As if being ignorant was not bad enough, she was ignorant and full of herself at the same time. Where did she get the confidence to think that she could challenge the Zhuang family? None of the members of the Tan family was a match for the Zhuang family. Yet, Tan Jing was still arrogant.
Of course, Tan Jing was ignorant. Even the mistress of the Tan family, Chen Yi, was the same. They were from a small family that was about to be abandoned by the aristocrat circle. Had she had some foresight, she would never have proposed to break off the engagement with the Zhuang family based on some rumors she heard.
Tan Rou looked at Tan jing and Zhou Wu with disdain and said faintly, “I have never relied on anyone. Zhuang Liu happened to be present today and you guys embarrassed yourselves. On the other hand, you few motley crew. Don’t think that you can do anything to me just by banding together.”
Tan Jing and Zhou Wu’s efforts today ended in futile. At this moment, they could only leave dejectedly. Before leaving, Tan Jing still pretended to be calm and threw a few harsh words, in fact, she was afraid that the reporters would really release the news of her and Zhou Wu’s presence at the hotel today.
Reporter Wang was not affected at all. He only stood aside politely and did not say anything.
Tan Jing was so angry that she stomped her feet, but she could only leave helplessly.
Zhou Wu was not afraid of any reporters. He only secretly grudged that he did not succeed in his revenge today. However, he vaguely sensed that the man in the wheelchair was looking at him darkly. His intuition told him that the man’s capabilities were not as bad as Tan Jing had said, he did not dare to say anything and left with Tan Jing.
Zhuang Liu looked at Zhou Wu’s back and felt that the punishment he had given him last time was too light. His gaze hinted at Xiao Mo. Xiao Mo understood and nodded. He was already thinking of finding another reason to make Zhou Wu suffer a little more.
He was just a small hooligan. It was still very easy for him to find an excuse to teach him a lesson.
As for Tan Jing, after all, her relationship with Tan Rou was too complicated. Zhuang Liu did not want to make Tan Rou feel uncomfortable and think that he was meddling too much.
Thus, Zhuang Liu temporarily suppressed the thought of interfering. He returned to his gentle appearance and looked at Tan Rou with a smile.
Tan Rou smiled slightly. “Sorry to trouble everyone with today’s matter. I’m sorry, this is my personal matter and I’ve wasted your time.”
Chapter 046 The interview
Zhuang Liu shook his head, “I’m very glad that I was of help to you. I believe that even if we weren’t here today, you would have been able to handle the problem very well. In the end, it’s all my fault. If I hadn’t invited you here, I wouldn’t have given them the chance to find trouble with you.”
Tan Rou couldn’t help but laugh. “You’ve already seen people like them. Even if it wasn’t today or at the hotel, they would still try their best to find an excuse to smear my name. You don’t have to think too much about it.”
Zhuang Liu also laughed. “So we don’t have to be too polite. It’s my honor to be able to help you a little.”
Tan Rou smiled in her heart. Zhuang Liu had become that gentle big dog again.
Reporter Wang, who was beside her, was very surprised. In her impression, the third young master Zhuang had always been a serious person. Even after a few interviews, he never once seemed to smile. He was famous for being difficult to get along with and his company was extremely careful when choosing who to interview him. Only after careful consideration, did they chose her, an experienced reporter to complete the interview.
From the side, reporter Wang could see the relationship between the few of them. He was also aware of Tan Rou’s position in Zhuang Liu’s heart. Zhuang Liu had agreed to his interview at the last minute today, most likely it was to help this young lady.
Reporter Wang felt that the opportunity to complete the interview today was because of Tan Rou, his attitude towards Tan Rou was even more polite. “Miss Tan, you don’t have to worry. Our company has some influence in the industry. No one would dare to report about what had happened today.”
Tan Rou thanked him politely. “Thank you. I don’t think they would dare to make any more news. I’ve wasted your time. Please proceed with the interview. I’ll be taking my leave first.”
Zhuang Liu reached out to stop Tan Rou from leaving. He gently placed his hand on Tan Rou’s wrist. “Wait for me for a while. Let’s go eat together. I’ve already asked Xiao Mo to book a restaurant.”
Xiao Mo also urged Tan Rou to stay. “That’s right, Miss Tan. We’ve already agreed to thank you for helping our third young master today.”
Tan Rou thought of the agreement that they had agreed on earlier and did not reject it anymore. She nodded and agreed. The few of them entered the room and started the interview.
Xiao Mo pushed Zhuang Liu into the room where the guests were normally hosted and politely invited reporter Wang to sit down.
Tan Rou went to the sofa at the side and sat down. She waited quietly.
Reporter Wang was very professional and quickly got into the mood. He threw out a few professional questions and carefully recorded Zhuang Liu’s answers.
Tan Rou originally did not want to disturb Zhuang Liu’s work, but when she heard Zhuang Liu use his clear voice to answer tricky questions at a moderate pace, Tan Rou gaze was glued to Zhuang Liu.
She saw Zhuang Liu sitting upright. Even in the wheelchair, it did not affect the gracefulness of a noble young master in him. He was calm, composed, and elegant.
This made Tan Rou think of a great general of ancient times, who was in high spirits, dictating wars with every decision. Just that Zhuang Liu’s battlefield was his business empire.
Zhuang Liu crossed his hands. Sometimes he paused, and sometimes he spoke with confidence. The more reporter Wang listened, the more excited he became. There was an unconcealed admiration in his eyes and his hands were working at lightning speed to record the interview.
Tan Rou was unconsciously engrossed in listening. Although there were many technical terms that she did not understand, she was deeply affected by Zhuang Liu’s calmness and boldness.
Tan Rou recalled that what Tan Jing said just now was really wrong. She did not know where Tan Jing heard the rumors, but she felt that the Zhuang family’s strength was in a decline.
Looking at Zhuang Liu’s confident and charming speech, anyone would know that he was a business genius. Right now, he is still making bold moves despite being restricted by his body. If his body recovers, wouldn’t he be even more dazzling and able to show off his skills without any worries?
Reporter Wang completed the questions he had prepared in satisfaction and probed Zhuang Liu carefully, “Is it convenient for you to tell me if the rumors about your health are true?”
Xiao Mo wanted to step forward to stop him. Third Young Master’s body condition had always been a minefield. He did not allow any reporter to casually ask questions.
Reporter Wang was also a little nervous. Of course, she knew about this minefield. When she was preparing for the interview, her boss had also repeatedly warned her not to ask unnecessary questions to annoy young master Zhuang. But her intuition told her that today might be a little different.
Sure enough, Zhuang Liu raised his hand slightly, shook his head, and gestured to Xiao Mo. He looked at reporter Wang indifferently, “Normally, I wouldn’t answer such questions, but today, I still have to thank you for your help. You also spoke up for Xiao Rou, so I’ll also reveal some to you as my thanks.”
Reporter Wang’s eyes widened in excitement. She knew it! Miss Tan was her nobleman today!
Zhuang Liu gently turned his head to look at Tan Rou. Feeling the admiration in Tan Rou’s eyes, his mood further improved.
Chapter 047 Read between the lines
Zhuang Liu turned to reporter Wang and said, “I did have some problems with my health some time ago. Some people tried to make a move when the news broke out and I am well aware of who they are. Unfortunately, those parasites in the company did not get what they wanted. I met someone to whom I am indebted, and my body is much better now. I have more energy to deal with those people who took advantage of the situation.”
Reporter Wang nodded. “Then can I take it that this is also an opportunity to help you eliminate some disloyal partners, such as your previous soon-to-be in-laws, the Tan Family?”
Zhuang Liu kept it a secret and did not say it out loud, he only explained plainly, “The sandstorm is an unavoidable challenge. The fittest will survive. Everyone has their own independent judgment. I can only say that the choice is a two-way street. If the other party has other thoughts, I’m willing to accept them. I only need a partner who is compatible with me, including the person I’m marrying.”
Reporter Wang hurriedly asked, “What is a good match for you? Are You referring to the fact that the Tan family is far from the Zhuang family in terms of status and financial resources, and is unworthy of a marriage alliance with you?”
Zhuang Liu shook his head, “Good match does not refer to status and financial resources. It refers to character, upbringing, and knowledge. It is very clear that the Tan family’s recent actions do not quite match my values. We have reluctantly parted on good terms, as a token of goodwill to the older generation.”
Tan Rou listened to Zhuang Liu’s words and agreed in her heart. The relationship between people does not always revolve around money and status. Those who only valued these are merely people whom they work with.
Once Zhuang Liu’s words get out, many elites in the society would only follow the Zhuang family’s attitude and dislike the Tan family even more. Tan Rou was happy to see such a situation, and she knew in her heart that Zhuang Liu was helping her take revenge, making the Tan family suffer.
Just as she was thinking, she did not expect Zhuang Liu to turn around and look at Tan Rou after he finished speaking. His gaze was deep and sincere. Tan Rou’s face immediately turned red. Why was he looking at her like that for no reason?
Reporter Wang had a gossipy look on her face. Her sharp professional sense was telling her that there was something going on between Zhuang Liu and Tan Rou, she asked again, “Then this Miss Tan, is she the person that you mentioned just now? Is she someone you recognize as a match for you?”
Tan Rou’s face turned even redder. Sitting on the sofa, she was at a loss. She wanted to explain, but it wasn’t appropriate for her to interrupt.
Zhuang Liu smiled. He didn’t want to put pressure on Tan Rou. He was also afraid that if word got out, it would bring unnecessary trouble to Tan Rou. Thus, he only hinted vaguely, “This Miss Tan is indeed someone I respect. She has taught me a lot and helped me a lot. As for what you were hinting at, I think I still have to respect her wishes and work towards it.”
Tan Rou blushed as she looked at Zhuang Liu’s smiling side profile. Her heart palpitated. What did he mean? Acknowledging her made Tan Rou happy, but the rest of his words were a little strange. Work hard or something. Those who didn’t know better would think that he was wooing her!
Zhuang Liu didn’t continue. He bowed slightly and ended the interview.
Xiao Mo went forward and led reporter Wang out of the room. Reporter Wang was satisfied with today’s interview. Se thanked her profusely and even looked at Tan Rou with gratitude and gave her blessings.
Tan Rou smiled helplessly. She was afraid that this reporter had already tacitly acknowledged her relationship with Zhuang Liu. It would seem abrupt if she decided to suddenly clarify. She could only stand up and politely bid farewell.
Zhuang Liu came to Tan Rou’s side and asked, “Do you feel bored? I’ve made you wait for so long. You must be hungry.”
Tan Rou was still a little embarrassed and shook her head. “It was quite interesting, but why did you say that in the end?”
Zhuang Liu smiled brightly. “If I wasn’t afraid of bringing trouble to you, I would have said it even more bluntly. You are indeed someone I acknowledge. You are my light, someone I’m indebted to.”
Now, Tan Rou was completely embarrassed. She glared at Zhuang Liu in embarrassment. What was wrong with this person? He is exaggerating!
Zhuang Liu was also a little shy. He rubbed the tip of his nose unnaturally. He didn’t want to say too much. If he wanted to confess, he should have done it in a more formal setting. He didn’t want to make things difficult for Tan Rou now.
Thus, Zhuang Liu changed the topic. “Don’t worry. This media company knows its limits. They won’t report carelessly. After the interview, I’m also a little hungry. Let’s go eat!”
Tan Rou reminded him, “Your body has officially entered the treatment stage. You have to be mindful to not work too hard. For example, today’s interview was quite relaxing. It can’t be too intense. It’s a good thing that you’re hungry. You need to replenish your energy. Then let’s go quickly.”
Zhuang Liu listened to Tan Rou’s concern for him. Although it might be due to the doctor’s concern, it made Zhuang Liu feel good.
Chapter 048 Who is backing you
On the hand, Tan Jing and Zhou Wu left the hotel and argued at the door for a while.
Tan Jing complained, “What good are you? You fed me false information and made me lose face in front of that bitch, Tan Rou. Now she even has something on us. It’s all your fault for being stupid!”
Zhou Wu was also very angry, “You still blame me? I gave you a call as soon as I saw her. You were the one who said you wanted to teach her a lesson. How would I know who she’s with and how many people there are in the room? I don’t have x-ray vision!”
Tan Jing raised her hand and slapped Zhou Wu on the face, she said fiercely, “You still dare to talk back? Let me tell you, I’m not that bitch Tan Rou. In the past, she was easily controlled by you. I don’t raise idiots. If you want to stay on my payroll, shut your mouth. If you do things properly, I can even consider giving you some money to spend!”
Zhou Wu touched the corner of his mouth and stared at Tan Jing with an unfriendly gaze. However, when he heard her mention money, he restrained himself and squeezed out a cheeky smile, “Yes, Sister Jing has given me enough money. Naturally, I am willing to work for you. It was an accident this time round. I was too impatient.”
Tan Jing snorted coldly and turned around to walk away.
Zhou Wu stood at the same spot and looked at Tan Jing’s back. He spat on the ground in disdain, “Pft! You bitch, you still dare to hit me? If it wasn’t for the fact that you have some stinky money, I would have killed you sooner or later! You call me stupid, but don’t you see what kind of person you are? You are the one being played by that bitch, Tan Rou!”
Tan Jing returned to the Tan family with an air of resentment. She threw her shoes off as soon as she entered the house and threw her bag into the sofa as she threw a fit.
Chen Yi came downstairs with a cup of tea and asked in confusion, “What’s wrong? Who made you angry?”
Tan Jing sobbed in grief, “Mom! It’s all because of Tan Rou! She scolded me and even said bad things about you and dad!”
Chen Yi felt uncomfortable as well. She walked forward and sat down on the sofa, “How did you get involved with her again? This ungrateful wretch. I fed her well and raised her to such an age. How dare she hold a grudge and say bad things about me? I knew that she was unwilling to leave the Tan family. I didn’t expect her to still haunt us and still dare to scold you.”
Tan Jing immediately added fuel to the fire and told her about what happened in the hotel. She sobbed as if she had been wronged. Seeing that Chen Yi’s expression was getting worse, Tan Jing secretly curled the corners of her lips.
However, Tan Jing still pretended to be wronged and cried, “I know. She still has a problem with me. She thinks that I stole her status. But, Mom, I don’t care about money. I just want to return to your side. But, she has never been filial to you. She just feels that she has lost her wealth and honor, so she always tries to make things difficult for me!”
Chen Yi nodded. “She only knows how to ask me for money. How can she be as considerate as you?”
Tan Jing flung the pillow beside her onto the floor and was extremely angry, “I can tolerate her for the rest, but I won’t allow her to say bad things about you and dad! That’s why I got into an argument with her! Mom, she and that Zhuang Liu are both saying that I lack upbringing and that our genes aren’t good. Isn’t that the same as scolding you and dad!”
Chen Yi snorted. “That little bitch isn’t very smart either. That sickly Zhuang Liu that we look down on. Does she think that by having the Zhuang family back her up, she can mock us? She will forever remain as a dirty secret!”
Tan Jing thought of Zhuang Liu’s appearance and felt a little distracted. The third young master of the Zhuang family was said to be swift and decisive in the business world, but there were very few reports that praised his handsome appearance. However, when she thought of his legs, Tan Jing immediately cast aside any second thoughts. He was a cripple. His legs were limp as he sunk into the wheelchair. His legs were so skinny that they were skin and bones, it was extremely ugly! What was the use of having a handsome face! He is still a sickly man that is waiting to die!
Fortunately, she had broken off the engagement. Only an idiot like Tan Rou thought that she had picked up a treasure and was still trying to protect that cripple. It was just as Chen Yi had said, she was a country bumpkin who could not take the stage!
Chen Yi comforted Tan Jing, “Good child, I know that you are trying to protect your father and mother. Don’t be angry. That ingrate Tan Rou will pay the price for what she said. She has been raised by us, the Tan family, for more than ten years. What rights did she have to turn around and criticize me? She is just jealous of you and bites people like a mad dog!”
Tan Jing nodded. “Mom, she went too far. You have to help me and teach her a lesson!”
Chen Yi touched Tan Jing’s face, “Of course, I will help you. You are my good daughter. You don’t have to be angry with that little bitch now. Mom will help you teach her a lesson! Go wash your face. You look like a little kitten, Mom will take you out for dinner!”
Chapter 049 Shut out
Tan Jing acted coquettishly. “I knew mom treats me the best!” Then she threw herself into Chen Yi’s arms happily.
Tan Jing’s lips curled up. Hmph, Tan Rou, let’s see how long more can you still be smug for? I have the Tan family backing me up. You, on the other hand, have those useless parents and older brother of the Tao family, or the Zhuang Liu who is about to die from illness? Let’s see who will have the last laugh!
Chen Yi patted Tan Jing. “Alright, don’t be angry. Mom will bring you to dinner. That private restaurant’s Cantonese cuisine is superb. It’s the most popular restaurant in the elite circle recently. I’ll bring you there to try some fresh food.”
These rich ladies also had a circle among themselves, and the barriers to entering this circle were extremely high. Everyone would often gather for afternoon tea and talk about the latest season’s luxury product launch. Most of the time, it was for the sake of bonding and exchanging the latest gossip.
The relationship between the ladies was a representation of the interaction or even alliance between the families. The power struggle was not any lesser than the competition between men in business.
Because of the relationship with the Tan family, Chen Yi could also be considered a rich lady to qualify for the circle.
After all, although the Tan family’s assets were not impressive, they still had enough to get by. Father Tan’s business was sorely average and he barely managed to maintain the status that the previous generation had fought hard for.
However, in recent years, as Father Tan and Chen Yi became more and more aggressive, revealing their snobbish and vain nature, the others in the circle started to dislike them.
Many wives were reluctant to invite Chen Yi to the party, for fear that she would say something unpleasant and ruin everyone’s mood.
Moreover, none of the really rich businessmen ever became rich overnight. They all hailed from a long lineage of successful businessmen. Their wealth was an accumulation of hard work from several generations of people. This made them respect people who had knowledge and self-restraint, and strive to work together for win-win results.
In their eyes, Father Tan was really not a figure worthy of respect. Naturally, Chen Yi’s name also went down with him. Today’s private restaurant was a piece of news that Chen Yi found out with great difficulty, she thought that she might be able to meet some acquaintances and have a common topic in the future.
The mother and daughter worked hard to doll themselves up at home. Their clothes were glittery and they were finally ready to leave. Those who did not know better would mistake them for going to some ball.
The driver sent Chen Yi and Tan Jing to a quiet suburb. A winding river blocked the path, and a quaint little antique solid wood bridge crossed over it.
They could vaguely see the green bamboo not far away, surrounding a courtyard.
The driver said awkwardly, “Madam, Miss, I don’t think the car can go any further. You can get off here. I’ll wait for you by the side.”
Tan Jing was not very happy and complained, “What kind of place is this? There are so many rules, and you have to walk there yourself.”
Chen Yi was also a little disdainful. “Those people are also full of themselves. They love to come to this kind of godforsaken place. They always stink of money, and they still want to pretend to be elegant.”
But even though they were complaining, the two of them still lifted up their dresses and got off the car, walking step by step on the small countryside road.
Tan Jing was even more unhappy. “My new shoes are dirty! Mom, let’s go back. I don’t want to come to this kind of place!”
Chen Yi chuckled. “What do you know? The important thing is not where the restaurant is, but the people who go to eat! Stop complaining. It won’t look good if others hear it!”
Tan Jing pouted and muttered in a low voice, “What kind of great people can come to this kind of shabby place? It’s not as good as a Michelin restaurant. What’s there to be afraid of hearing…”
After saying that, Tan Jing let out a weird cry. Her thin high heels were stuck in the gap of the wooden bridge and she had to pull them out in a sorry state.
The two of them walked to the front of the courtyard with an ugly expression on their faces.
The waiter, dressed in an elegant qipao, asked politely, “Hello, May I know the reservation number?”
Chen Yi put on a prideful look. “I’m the Tan family’s wife, Chen Yi. This is my daughter. I don’t think there’s a need to make an appointment.”
The waiter smiled apologetically. “I’m sorry, ladies. We have a membership system here. We only accept members, and we need to make an appointment in advance.”
Tan Jing frowned and questioned, “I’ve already said that we’re from the Tan family. If you don’t know, just call your boss out. He’ll definitely recognize us.”
Chen Yi did not speak, but her meaning was obvious. She clearly agreed with Tan Jing’s words and thought that she had enough face to make the boss welcome her politely.
The waiter was unmoved and continued to block the door. “I’m really sorry. This is the rule set by our boss, and the seats inside are already full. We really can’t entertain the two of you today.”
Chen Yi’s face instantly stiffened after being humiliated. She had spent a lot of effort to find this place, but she did not expect to be rejected and shut out!
Chapter 050 Have some self-respect
Tan Jing was already in a bad mood. Now that she was stopped at the door, she felt even more furious. “Do you even understand? Do you think we care so much about coming to your place for a meal? We didn’t even say anything, what kind of attitude is this?”
The waiter frowned. “Madam, please lower your voice. I’m just following the rules. Please don’t disturb the customers inside.”
Chen Yi’s face turned cold, she scolded, “I’ve never seen a place that would chase me out. How amazing do you think you are? Are you afraid that I can’t afford it? My daughter is just stating facts, who are we disturbing? They can even use this opportunity to step up and see who I am!”
The waiter stood awkwardly. He was angered by the mother and daughter’s unreasonable behaviour but he couldn’t force them out either.
Just as the three of them remained in a stagnant position, a kind-looking middle-aged man walked out of the room and asked softly, “Is there anything wrong?”
The waiter saw his saviour and quickly ran up to him. “Boss, I already explained it to them. They are not members and did not make an appointment but they insist on having a meal here.”
Chen Yi snorted. “You are the boss of this place? Great! Waiters like you don’t know what’s good for you. I am Mrs. Tan. I heard that your restaurant is famous and I would like to try it out. Would you be able to do anything about it?”
Chen Yi said it lightly and arrogantly, as if she wanted to hang the word ‘Mrs. Tan’ on her face.
The middle-aged man chuckled. “In the beginning, this small place of mind opened up blindly with my own creations. A few good friends got together and gradually, friends brought friends which slowly brought in the crowd. You ran out of luck today. Perhaps you can come again next time with your friends, I’ll make sure to treat them well.”
Tan Jing understood what he meant. He was hinting that they did not have any connections and since no one introduced them here, they were not allowed inside?
She was instantly infuriated. “You think this desolate and desolate place is a noble place?”
The middle-aged man was not angry. “It’s reasonable for a little girl to look down on this little courtyard of mine. Very well then, there’s no need to force yourself to come in and eat. Please come in!”
As they were speaking, a few middle-aged women walked out of the room. One of them walked up and said, “I was wondering why it’s so noisy outside. What’s going on? Hey, isn’t this Mrs. Tan? You’re here for dinner too?”
Chen Yi’s expression turned awkward. This woman had always been on bad terms with Chen Yi as she kept comparing them. Now, she was forced into such an awkward situation. What Bad Luck! She shouldn’t not have visited here today!
The middle-aged woman did not give up. “Oh, why do I remember that you aren’t a member here? It’s no wonder why I heard your voice from inside the room. Don’t get angry. These are the rules here!”
The woman laughed happily. “I was invited here by a friend too. Today isn’t a suitable day. I shall ask you out one day so that you can experience the vibe here.. Ahhhhh! The air of nature is so fresh but why are you and your daughter dressed like this? Inevitably… … It’s a little inappropriate!”
After the woman finished speaking, she looked Chen Yi and Tan Jing from head to toe, with her eyes full of ridicule and disdain.
Chen Yi felt her face burning and she wished she could escape underground. Tan Jing also felt uncomfortable as if she had eaten a dead fly.
Chen Yi knew these few middle-aged women standing by the entrance but they were not close to each other. So, no one came forward to speak up for Chen Yi. Instead, they gathered together and muttered something. No one knew what they were talking about.
Chen Yi felt that they were all mocking her. She stared at the boss and the middle-aged woman with hatred and was angry that they dared to embarrass her.
Now that it had come to this, the mother and daughter were already embarrassed. If they left with their tails between their legs, wouldn’t they be laughed at by that damn woman in the future? Everyone would know about this embarrassing matter before tomorrow.
Chen Yi gritted her teeth and thought about what else she could rely on to scare everyone so that she could reclaim her pride. After thinking for a long time, she finally said, “Even if you don’t care about the Tan family,, what about the Zhuang family? We are in-laws!”
The expressions of everyone present changed. They were all a little suspicious. They heard that the Tan and Zhuang families had already broken off their engagement? Could it be that the news was fake? Otherwise, why would Chen Yi still dare to say such a thing?
Everyone pondered in their hearts. If they still had a marriage contract with the Zhuang family, then they would have to consider the Zhuang family’s reputation and not offend Chen Yi.
Unexpectedly, at this moment, a clear male voice came from not far away. “The marriage contract between our two families has long been annulled. Mrs. Tan, please have some self-respect!”