Ch. 41..50

41 Cannot Be Discharged

Fang Yao, who was in the ward, did not know that because of his biological brother’s call, his parents had already erupted. There would be a bloodbath later.

“Do you want some fruit?” Fang Yao handed the washed fruit to Yuan Xiao. He looked at her bandaged forehead and felt very uncomfortable.

“If I’d been there a little earlier, you wouldn’t have been hurt.”

Yuan Xiao’s heart warmed when she saw Fang Yao lower his head in self-blame.

“It’s okay. If I wasn’t injured, my parents probably wouldn’t have fallen out with my aunt’s family.”

When Yuan Xiao thought of Shen Ling’s family, she felt a little frustrated.

Shen Hai and Feng Mei were honest people and had always been very polite to Shen Ling’s family. If not for the fact that she was injured today, who knew how long they would have been entangled with Shen Ling’s family.

“I think your parents won’t be too hard on that woman.” Fang Yao was angry, but because Yuan Xiao’s parents were present, he could not flare up.

“Yes, so I’m afraid I’ll have to stay in the hospital for a while longer.”

Fang Yao looked at the smiling Yuan Xiao and suddenly understood. “You mean, no matter how serious your injuries are, you won’t be discharged easily?”

Yuan Xiao nodded. If she did not make a fuss, her parents would not realize the seriousness of the problem. She wanted to use this opportunity to completely distance Shen Hai and Feng Mei from Shen Ling’s family.

Fang Yao did not think that there was anything wrong with Yuan Xiao’s actions at all. In fact, he felt very relieved.

“Xiao Xiao, the results are out.”

Li Chang came in from outside the ward and took the results of Yuan Xiao’s brain examination.

“The doctor said that it’s nothing. It’s just a superficial wound. Take care to rest. You’ll be fine in a week.”

Li Chang heaved a sigh of relief when she knew that Yuan Xiao was fine.

However, she realized that Yuan Xiao and Fang Yao seemed to have something on their minds. The two of them looked at each other and smiled before Fang Yao walked out of the ward.

“Xiao Xiao, the doctor said that you can be discharged now. Has Fang Yao gone to settle the discharge procedures?”

Li Chang did not understand the situation and felt that Yuan Xiao and Fang Yao seemed to be plotting something.

“I’m still a little dizzy. I shouldn’t be able to be discharged today.” Yuan Xiao saw that Li Chang had obviously become nervous. She smiled helplessly and decided to tell her the truth.

“I don’t want to let Aunt and the others off so easily, so I want to stay in the hospital for a few days.”

Li Chang was relieved when she heard Yuan Xiao’s words.

“I see. That’s good. We shouldn’t let them off so easily!” Li Chang thought of Yuan Xiao’s aunt and felt that she had indeed gone overboard.

“Uncle and Auntie are soft-hearted. We can’t just let it go.”

When Yuan Xiao heard Li Chang’s words, she felt that her friend was really like her. They both hated evil.

“So you don’t have to worry. When my parents come later, we have to make them think that the matter is serious. We can’t let them off so easily just because they’re relatives.”

Yuan Xiao was not a magnanimous person to begin with. If anyone made her unhappy, she would definitely pay them back double.

Fang Yao explained the situation to the doctor and said that Yuan Xiao was still not feeling well, so he naturally went through the hospitalization procedures.

When he returned to the ward, Fang Yao received a call from Sun Ting. Sure enough, Shen Hai and Feng Mei did not make things too difficult for Shen Ling’s family. They simply apologized and they let them leave. Now, they and Yuan Xiao’s parents were rushing to the hospital and would be arriving soon.

Yuan Xiao was not surprised by this result. She sat on the bed and secretly made up her mind.

When Shen Hai and Feng Mei rushed to the ward, Yuan Xiao was lying on the bed.

“Xiao Xiao, how are you now? What did the doctor say?”

Shen Hai did not expect Yuan Xiao to be hospitalized. When he saw his weak daughter on the bed, he felt terrible.

“Uncle, Yuan Xiao has a slight concussion. If she had come to the hospital a little later, I’m afraid…”

Fang Yao’s acting was a little exaggerated. Yuan Xiao could not help but cough lightly. She was worried that if she did not speak, she would scare her down-to-earth parents.

“Dad, Mom, I’m fine. You don’t have to worry too much.” With Li Chang’s help, Yuan Xiao struggled to sit up from the bed.

“Xiao Xiao, it’s all Mom’s fault. If it weren’t for me, you wouldn’t have gotten hurt.”

Feng Mei walked to Yuan Xiao’s side, her eyes filled with self-blame.

“How can I blame you?” Yuan Xiao smiled at Feng Mei and asked, “Aunt and her family won’t ask you for money anymore, right?”

At the mention of Shen Ling’s family, Shen Hai’s face instantly darkened. “Hmph, she wants money? If she dares to appear in front of me again in the future, I’ll settle the score with her. Xiao Xiao’s injury can’t be forgotten just like that!”

Although Shen Hai was honest and dutiful, he could not tolerate his daughter being hurt.

42 Not Like a Good Person

Seeing that his goal had been achieved, Yuan Xiao continued to say to Shen Hai, “Dad, you should interact less with Aunt’s family in the future. Who knows, there might be other troubles.”

Shen Hai nodded. He agreed with Yuan Xiao’s thoughts. In the future, he would definitely keep a distance from Shen Ling’s family.

“Xiao Xiao, the Yuan Family called just now.” Feng Mei looked a little nervous, and her tone was a little unnatural.

“They asked how you were doing. I couldn’t lie, so I told them you were in the hospital.”

Yuan Xiao could see Feng Mei’s embarrassment. If Yuan Ming and Sun Li knew that she was in the hospital, they might think that the Shen couple had not taken good care of her.

“Mom, I know. It’s okay.”

Seeing Yuan Xiao’s smile, Feng Mei suddenly felt much more relaxed. This child always had a maturity that did not match her age, making her feel at ease.

“Sigh, it’s all Dad’s fault for not taking good care of you.”

Shen Hai’s expression was also a little solemn. When Yuan Xiao was in the Yuan Family in the past, she must have never suffered such grievances. When he thought about meeting the Yuan Family couple later, Shen Hai felt a little upset.

“Why are the both of you taking the responsibility upon yourself?”

Yuan Xiao looked at the Shen couple and comforted them softly. “Dad, Mom, we can’t leave the shop unattended. You guys can go back first. Li Chang and Fang Yao will accompany me at the hospital. I’ll be fine.”

“That’s right. Uncle and Auntie, don’t worry. I’ll take good care of Yuan Xiao.”

Fang Yao’s tone was very serious. His young face looked inexplicably reliable.

Shen Hai and Feng Mei looked at the young man beside the bed at the same time and could not help but doubt his identity.

Could he really be Xiao Xiao’s boyfriend?

Shen Hai did not want his daughter to fall in love at a young age, but this boy had indeed helped their family just now. Moreover, this child could not find any flaws in his appearance. His family background should be good.

Yuan Xiao noticed her father’s scrutinizing gaze on Fang Yao. She coughed and reminded, “Dad, Mom, go back quickly. My classmates will take care of me.”

Yuan Xiao deliberately emphasized the word ‘classmates’. She felt that Shen Hai and Feng Mei might have misunderstood her relationship with Fang Yao.

At Yuan Xiao’s insistence, Shen Hai and Feng Mei left the hospital.

Looking at Fang Yao and Li Chang by the bed, Yuan Xiao said, “The two of you can go back first. I’m fine. I’ll rest in the hospital for the night.”

“I’ll stay with you.” Fang Yao looked at Yuan Xiao who was lying on the bed. He had no intention of leaving.

Li Chang looked at Fang Yao, then turned to look at Yuan Xiao. A smile appeared on his face. “Then you shall stay in the hospital to accompany Xiao Xiao. I’ll go back first.”

Li Chang winked at Yuan Xiao and left the ward.

Yuan Xiao’s body was fine. Li Chang did not want to stay and be a third wheel. She had to think of a way to create opportunities for the couple she supported.

Fang Yao and Yuan Xiao were alone in the ward. The atmosphere between the two of them was a little awkward. Previously, when the two of them parted on bad terms in the amusement park, Fang Yao had always had a knot in his heart. He did not know Yuan Xiao’s attitude towards him, so he did not dare to easily show his feelings.

“Tomorrow is the weekend. Do you still want to come to my house to practice?”

Fang Yao lowered his head. He was afraid that Yuan Xiao would reject him.

“Go. Didn’t we agree before?” Yuan Xiao looked at the somewhat awkward young man and a smile appeared on his face. “You have to teach me well. My learning ability is very strong.”

Yuan Xiao did not want to waste the learning opportunity provided by the system. There was still some time before the provincial mathematics competition. Yuan Xiao wanted to completely master all the piano skills before the competition.

When Fang Yao heard Yuan Xiao’s answer, he felt much more relaxed. Thinking of the way Yuan Xiao’s parents looked at him just now, Fang Yao’s expression was a little unnatural. He scratched his head and asked Yuan Xiao, “Will Uncle and Auntie misunderstand me and think that I’m not a good person?”

“Do you feel like a good person?”

Yuan Xiao could not help but smile. He asked Fang Yao, who did not look too good, “Since when did our Young Master Fang care about what others think?”

Fang Yao was a little angry. He whispered to Yuan Xiao, “Aren’t they your parents? Otherwise, why would I care…”

After Fang Yao finished speaking, he realized that his words were a little subtle. Yuan Xiao’s expression was also a little unnatural. He asked faintly, “Fang Yao, do you care what my parents think of you?”

“Of course.” Fang Yao did not hesitate and explained to Yuan Xiao, “I hope that Uncle and Auntie will have a good impression of me. Maybe in the future, I…”

Fang Yao’s ears were a little hot. Thinking about his future with Yuan Xiao, Fang Yao was actually a little nervous.

43 Double Hatred

Before Fang Yao could finish, he was interrupted by the sound of the door opening.

“Xiao Xiao, how did you get injured?”

Yuan Xiao looked at the anxious woman in front of him and revealed an obedient smile.

“Mom, I’ll be fine. Don’t worry.”

When Sun Li heard how Yuan Xiao addressed her, her eyes reddened. When she saw the gauze on Yuan Xiao’s forehead, tears fell from the corners of her eyes uncontrollably.

Yuan Xiao looked at the nervous Sun Li and Yuan Ming. She could tell that they were really worried about her.

“Xiao Xiao, I felt terrible when I heard that you’re injured.”

Yuan Wei, who had been standing at the door of the ward, walked in. She looked at the Yuan couple surrounding Yuan Xiao and felt a little upset.

“I’ve made you worry. I’m fine now.” Yuan Xiao ignored Yuan Wei. She felt warm in her heart as Sun Li held her hand tightly.

“Where’s the Shen family? Why did they leave you alone in the hospital?” Yuan Ming was a little dissatisfied that he did not see the Shen couple.

Yuan Xiao had always been raised like a princess by him. Now, not only was she injured, but she was also not properly taken care of.

“We can’t leave the restaurant unattended, so I asked them to go back first. I’m really fine.”

Yuan Xiao could tell that Yuan Ming was dissatisfied, so she did not explain further. After all, with Yuan Ming’s personality, it was normal for him to look down on the Shen couple.

“If you need anything, just tell Dad. Don’t be so distant with me.”

Yuan Ming’s voice trembled slightly. When he heard that Yuan Xiao was injured, he was really nervous. In the past, he did not think that he cared that much about Yuan Xiao, but when he heard that something had happened to her, Yuan Ming realized that Yuan Xiao was still very important to him.

Yuan Xiao nodded. She did not want to sever ties with the Yuan Family.

Yuan Xiao looked up at Yuan Wei and saw the uneasiness on her face. Yuan Xiao smiled in satisfaction. She wanted Yuan Wei to experience the feeling of losing everything.

The conversation between Yuan Xiao and the Yuan couple was very harmonious. Fang Yao did not want to disturb them, so he left the ward alone.

Unexpectedly, as soon as he walked out of the ward, he saw Yuan Wei who also left. Fang Yao ignored her and walked off on his own, but Yuan Wei quickly caught up with him.

“Fang Yao, do you like Yuan Xiao?” Yuan Wei did not want to continue staying in the ward and watch Yuan Xiao and the Yuan couple having fun together. She also did not want Fang Yao to really focus on Yuan Xiao.

“Whether I like Yuan Xiao or not is none of your business!”

Fang Yao was a little disgusted with a pretentious girl like Yuan Wei. He could also see Yuan Wei’s hostility towards Yuan Xiao, so he did not want to talk to her.

“I just want to remind you that Yuan Xiao is someone Jiang Yan doesn’t like. Aren’t you afraid of being laughed at if you like her?”

Yuan Wei knew that Fang Yao and Jiang Yan had a bad relationship, so she deliberately used words to provoke him.

“Although I don’t hit women, I never said that I wouldn’t scold people.” Fang Yao glanced at Yuan Wei coldly and warned, “You and that trash Jiang Yan are very compatible. The two of you can be together well, lest you disgust others!”

“You!” Although Yuan Wei was angry, she did not dare to offend Fang Yao. After all, the way Fang Yao looked at her just now was already very scary. Yuan Wei knew that Fang Yao was not someone to be trifled with.

Fang Yao left without looking back. It was as if the air around Yuan Wei was suffocating.

Looking at Fang Yao’s back, Yuan Wei clenched the corner of her shirt tightly.

Why were there so many people surrounding Yuan Xiao? Why was Yuan Xiao able to suppress her?

Although the Yuan couple did not say anything, Yuan Wei could tell that they actually liked Yuan Xiao more.

Yuan Wei’s jealousy towards Yuan Xiao doubled. She bit her lower lip hard and her face turned pale. She would not give up so easily. She would take back everything that belonged to her from Yuan Xiao!

The atmosphere in the ward was very warm and familial. As Sun Li and Yuan Xiao chatted, their eyes were red.

“You’ve been crying a lot recently. Your emotions are too sensitive. You have to take care of your body.”

Yuan Ming wiped Sun Li’s tears and whispered to Yuan Xiao, “Xiao Xiao, you’re going to be an elder sister soon.”

Upon hearing Yuan Ming’s words, Yuan Xiao’s eyes widened. When he saw Sun Li lowering her head in embarrassment, Yuan Xiao finally reacted.

In her previous life, Sun Li and Yuan Ming did not have a second child. Yuan Xiao did not know why this sudden plot happened.

“Your father and I haven’t told anyone yet. You’re the first to know. The doctor said it’s a boy. You’ll have a brother in the future.” Sun Li was smiling. Perhaps it was because of her pregnancy, but Sun Li looked even gentler.

“That’s great. I always wanted a brother.”

44 Escalating Misunderstanding

Yuan Xiao was really happy. The arrival of this child would undoubtedly affect Yuan Wei. Yuan Xiao was naturally happy that she was unhappy.

“When your brother is born, you have to come home more often and teach him well. Your results are especially good now. Dad knows.”

Yuan Xiao was now very famous in the entire school. Not only was she the focus of praise in the parent group, but she was also recognized as a dark horse with potential by the entire school’s teachers.

“I will. I’ll tutor my younger brother in the future. I believe that my younger brother will be especially outstanding.”

Upon hearing Yuan Xiao’s words, Yuan Ming and Sun Li revealed gratified smiles. They were very happy that Yuan Xiao had a very cordial relationship with them, unlike Yuan Wei who always looked like she had a lot on her mind. Yuan Xiao’s directness and cheerfulness made the Yuan couple feel the warmth of a family they had not experienced for a long time.

The Yuan Family couple accompanied Yuan Xiao in the hospital for a long time. They did not plan to leave even though the sky had turned dark. In the end, Yuan Xiao wanted to rest, so Yuan Ming and Sun Li reluctantly left the ward. Before they left, they even gave Yuan Xiao a lot of advice and reminders.

Fang Yao only returned to the ward after they left.

“Looks like a lot of people care about you.”

Fang Yao originally thought that the Yuan couple had distanced themselves from Yuan Xiao after acknowledging Yuan Wei. It seemed that he was wrong. The Yuan couple seemed to care a lot about Yuan Xiao.

“Of course. I’m so good that I deserve to be liked by so many people.” Yuan Xiao was in a good mood and deliberately joked with Fang Yao.

Yuan Xiao did not hear Fang Yao’s ridicule. She looked at the young man in front of her, whose expression was unclear. His voice was very calm. “There are indeed many people who like you…”

Fang Yao’s sudden seriousness made Yuan Xiao nervous.

She coughed awkwardly, wanting to ease the atmosphere. Unexpectedly, Fang Yao said, “Yuan Xiao, I think I like you a little too.”

Yuan Xiao did not know if it was considered a confession, but she felt that Fang Yao did not look like he was joking. She thought about it and was about to answer when someone knocked on the ward door.

“F*ck!” When Fang Yao saw that Yuan Xiao was about to reply to him but was interrupted, his face was filled with displeasure. He turned his head and looked out of the door fiercely, but his expression froze.

“Dad, Mom! Why did you come to the hospital?”

Fang Yao looked at his travel-worn parents at the door of the ward in confusion. He did not understand why they were here.

“Little brat, why can’t we come!”

Fang Yuan brought Wei Lan to the hospital as soon as they got off the plane. He wanted to contact Fang Ming first, but he was busy with work. Fang Yuan was not in the mood to wait for Fang Ming to finish his work, so he went straight to the ward where Fang Yao was.

Wei Lan looked at her son and then at the girl on the bed. She sighed and walked towards Yuan Xiao.

“I’m sorry, child. It’s all Ah Yao’s fault for making you suffer.”

Yuan Xiao looked at the woman in front of her who had exquisite makeup but an apologetic expression on her face. She did not understand the situation.

These two should be Fang Yao’s parents, but why were they looking at her so apologetically?

Yuan Xiao did not know what Fang Yao’s parents had misunderstood. Did they think that Fang Yao had beaten her up and hospitalized her?

“Auntie, you might have misunderstood. The injury on my head was not caused by Fang Yao.”

Yuan Xiao explained softly, but saw the woman’s eyes widen in shock.

“Ah Yao usually hits you?” Wei Lan steadied her swaying body and looked at her husband for help.

“Lan Lan, calm down.” Fang Yuan hugged his wife and scolded Fang Yao angrily, “You little brat, you even got into domestic violence!”

Fang Yao looked at his angry father and felt a little unhappy. Before he could understand the situation, he was scolded. Anyone would be unhappy.

“What’s wrong with me? Dad, Mom, what are you doing? Yuan Xiao needs to rest. Don’t cause trouble in the ward!”

Fang Yao did not know what his parents had misunderstood, but he really did not want to lose face in front of Yuan Xiao.

“Need to rest?” Fang Yuan’s heart tightened when he heard Fang Yao’s words. He turned around and asked Fang Yao, “Could it be that the surgery is over? Didn’t I ask Ah Ming to stabilize it first?”

Fang Yao could not understand his father’s complicated emotions, but when he heard his brother’s name, Fang Yao realized that things might not be that simple.

Just as he was about to call Fang Ming, he saw his big brother panting as he ran over from outside the door.

“Dad, Mom, didn’t I ask the nurse to take you to the office to wait?”

Fang Ming had just finished a surgery. Knowing that his parents had already gone to Yuan Xiao’s ward, he rushed over. Looking at the current situation, he was still a little late.

45 I Like You

“Ah Yao has caused so much trouble. How can I wait?”

When Fang Yuan saw Fang Ming appear, his emotions calmed down a little. However, when he saw his rebellious younger son, he was still worried.

Fang Yao looked at his brother with a gloomy expression. He gritted his teeth and questioned him, “Brother, what did you say to Mom and Dad?”

Fang Ming smiled awkwardly. If he had really said anything, it would have been fine. It was precisely because he had not said anything that Fang Yuan misunderstood so thoroughly.

“I really didn’t say anything.” Fang Ming noticed Yuan Xiao’s gaze on the hospital bed and could not help but feel a little guilty. He persuaded Fang Yuan and Wei Lan, “Dad, Mom, come with me to the office first. There’s a misunderstanding. Student Yuan Xiao only injured her forehead. It’s nothing serious.”

Fang Yuan and Wei Lan could not figure out the situation, but when they heard that the girl on the bed was fine, they finally heaved a sigh of relief.

They followed Fang Ming out of the ward, leaving Fang Yao standing by Yuan Xiao’s bed.

“Do you want to go check on Uncle and Auntie?”

Yuan Xiao looked at the silent Fang Yao and was a little worried about his relationship with his parents.

“With my brother around, it’s not my place to speak.” Fang Yao was a little angry. Since he was young, his parents had only trusted his brother. No one cared about his thoughts.

“Don’t say that. I think your brother and your parents actually care a lot about you.” Yuan Xiao noticed that Fang Yao was a little awkward and persuaded, “You seem to be very close to your family. Actually, I’m quite envious of you.”

Fang Yao wanted to retort, but when he thought of Yuan Xiao’s unique experience, he did not say anything. He only shook his head gloomily and muttered softly, “My brother has been exceptionally outstanding since he was young. My parents have placed all their hopes on him, so they don’t care about me at all.”

Yuan Xiao thought of Fang Yao’s past actions and suddenly realized that Fang Yao was like a rebellious child who deliberately caused trouble. In order to attract his parents’ attention, he deliberately did something out of line.

His parents’ indulgence did not make Fang Yao happy. He felt more and more that his parents did not care about him, and his personality became more and more eccentric.

“So you fight and cause trouble just so that your parents can notice you. I didn’t expect you to be so innocent and cute,” Yuan Xiao said with a smile, not noticing that Fang Yao’s face was getting redder and redder.

“That’s not true! This is a separate matter. I fought because some people deliberately caused trouble. It has nothing to do with them!” Although Fang Yao refuted Yuan Xiao verbally, his thoughts were all on her words just now.

Did Yuan Xiao really think that he was cute? Did that mean that Yuan Xiao also liked him a little?

The more Fang Yao thought about it, the more excited he became. The way he looked at Yuan Xiao became more probing.

“Yuan Xiao, you didn’t answer me just now.” Fang Yao was a little nervous, but he looked at Yuan Xiao with a burning gaze.

He stared intently at Yuan Xiao’s lips, anticipating her reply.

“Ah Yao, I’ve explained to Dad and Mom for you. They’re home now, you…”

Fang Ming had just pushed open the door when he saw his younger brother’s murderous expression.

“You guys chat. I’ll go out first.” Sensing that the atmosphere in the room was not right, Fang Ming closed the door that he had yet to open and walked back to the office with a smile.

Fang Yao’s face darkened. Afraid of being interrupted again, he asked Yuan Xiao loudly, “I like you. Do you want to be with me?”

Yuan Xiao looked at the serious expression of the youth in front of her and felt a little worried.

Although Fang Yao had a bad reputation, he was actually a good child who could distinguish between gratitude and grudges. He was handsome and treated her very well. Yuan Xiao could not think of a suitable reason to reject him.

However, in Yuan Xiao’s heart, Fang Yao was just a child who had yet to grow up. In her previous life, she had already lived until she was in her twenties. She really could not bring herself to get together with a younger, 18 year old boy.

“I’m not into young love.”

After Yuan Xiao finished speaking, the entire ward fell silent.

Just as she was about to say something, Yuan Xiao heard the young man chuckle.

“Am I being rejected?” Although Fang Yao was smiling, his eyes were sad.

“I’m not trying to reject you.” Yuan Xiao felt a little uncomfortable. When she saw Fang Yao, who was completely different from his usual self, she had an indescribable feeling. “I just really don’t plan to fall in love in high school.”

Yuan Xiao’s words had some effect on Fang Yao. His dark eyes lit up again.

“You really don’t want to be in a relationship so young?”

Yuan Xiao nodded affirmatively. There were still more than two years of high school life left. Yuan Xiao did not want to waste it so easily.

“You’re about to be in your third year of high school. You should focus on your studies.”

Yuan Xiao’s words left Fang Yao in a daze. His parents had never worried about his studies.

46 Helping Each Other

“Why are you talking like a teacher?” Fang Yao smiled bitterly and said slowly, “My parents have long given up on my grades. After graduation, they will send me overseas directly. I don’t have to choose at all.”

Yuan Xiao did not like Fang Yao’s self-destructive look and asked, “Then what do you think? Do you want to go abroad?”

“Me?” Fang Yao was slightly stunned. Ever since he was young, no one had ever asked him what he really wanted.

“Who cares what I think? My brother has already settled my future plans. I just have to follow them.”

!!

Fang Yao did not know if he hated this feeling. He had an outstanding brother who could arrange everything for him, but it also restricted his freedom and choices.

“It’s not that they don’t care about you. It’s just that you didn’t try to do it yourself.” Yuan Xiao remembered that in her previous life, Fang Yao had indeed gone overseas to study for a period of time, but in this life, would his fate change?

“After I graduate, I might be directly admitted to University A. Are you interested in going to the same university as me?”

Yuan Xiao knew that with her current results, she could directly be admitted to the best university in the country, but it was indeed a little difficult for Fang Yao.

“You want me to go to the same university as you?” Fang Yao did not care what kind of university he would go to, but when he thought about how he could spend time with Yuan Xiao every day in university, he was actually looking forward to it.

“Of course.” Yuan Xiao did not hide her emotions. She was also very happy to think about seeing Fang Yao in university.

Fang Yao was a little excited. He still did not understand Yuan Xiao’s true intentions.

“Alright, isn’t it just University A? I’ll definitely be able to get in!” Fang Yao’s face still had the immaturity of a young man, but his tone was especially serious.

“Then from tomorrow onwards, I’ll teach you how to study and you’ll teach me how to play the piano. Let’s consider this as helping each other.”

Yuan Xiao had always been grateful for Fang Yao’s help. At first, she thought that she could not help him much, but if Fang Yao was willing to learn, she could really help.

Fang Yao did not refuse. It would not do him any harm to spend more time with Yuan Xiao.

Under Fang Yao’s insistence, Yuan Xiao accepted his continued stay in the hospital with her.

The ward was very quiet. Fang Yao lay on the accompanying bed not far from Yuan Xiao. He looked at Yuan Xiao, who only occupied a small space on the bed, and did not feel sleepy at all.

“Are you asleep?” Fang Yao could not help but ask.

“No.” Yuan Xiao turned around and looked at Fang Yao. The room was very dim, but the young man’s fair face was exceptionally clear under the moonlight.

“Yuan Xiao, have you ever thought about what will happen to us in the future?”

Hearing Fang Yao’s question, Yuan Xiao fell into deep thought.

In the original book, Fang Yao seemed to be developing well as an affectionate supporting character, but she was not so lucky. As a cannon fodder supporting character to set off the female lead, Yuan Wei, Yuan Xiao was slowly removed when the female lead was happy. What future was there to talk about?

“You should be very successful. I believe you can do it.” Yuan Xiao did not notice the joy in Fang Zhao’s eyes and continued, “I should have my own career and live my own life well.”

“What about in terms of love life and feelings?” Fang Yao asked, unwilling to give up. He felt that Yuan Xiao did not seem to have any expectations for her future love life.

Yuan Xiao chuckled. “The love life belongs to the male and female leads. A small supporting role like me wouldn’t dare to ask for it.”

Yuan Xiao seemed to be joking, but only Yuan Xiao knew in her heart that she was already very content to be able to live another life.

“How do you know you’re not the main character?” Fang Yao did not understand.

Although Yuan Xiao was smiling, there was an indescribable sadness in her tone, as if something bad had happened.

Yuan Xiao did not know how to refute Fang Yao. She could not tell Fang Yao that they actually lived in a book.

“You’re beautiful and smart. You’re a shining existence in many people’s eyes. Don’t be so unconfident. That’s not like you at all.”

When Yuan Xiao heard Fang Yao’s words, she was in a daze. She did not expect Fang Yao to see her like this.

“Thank you, Fang Yao.”

The two of them did not say anything else. The night they spent in the hospital created an inextricable connection between Yuan Xiao and Fang Yao.

The two of them were determined to help each other and had gradually developed dependence and trust in each other.

Fang Ming took the initiative to send Yuan Xiao home when she was discharged from the hospital, but he did not expect Yuan Xiao to be prepared to go home with Fang Yao.

Fang Ming had a good impression of this strong and independent girl in front of him, so he did not stop her from interacting with his younger brother.

47 Meeting the Parents

“Xiao Xiao, if there’s anything in future, just let Brother know. If Fang Yao dares to bully you, just tell me. I’ll help you teach this kid a lesson.”

As Fang Ming drove, he instructed Yuan Xiao in the backseat, causing Fang Yao, who was sitting in the front passenger seat, to look dissatisfied.

“Xiao Xiao, my parents misunderstood yesterday. Don’t mind them. They’re actually quite open-minded,” Fang Ming explained to Yuan Xiao as he parked the car in the garage.

“Okay, Uncle and Auntie look very friendly.” Yuan Xiao looked at Fang Yao, who had already opened the car door for her, and got out of the car with a smile.

!!

“Brother, I brought Yuan Xiao here to learn the piano today. Tell Dad and Mom not to disturb us later.”

Fang Yao felt a headache when he thought of his parents’ abnormal behavior in the hospital yesterday.

“Learn the piano?” Fang Ming’s face was full of surprise. “Are you going to teach Xiao Xiao how to play the piano?”

“Why? Can’t I?” Fang Yao glanced at Fang Ming with a disdainful expression.

“Sure, Xiao Xiao. Ah Yao plays the piano well. It’s good for you to learn from him.”

Before this, Fang Ming had never thought that his younger brother would be able to calm down and teach others how to play the piano. It seemed that Yuan Xiao was indeed very special. She could make his troublesome younger brother become much more obedient.

Walking into the living room, Fang Yao wanted to bring Yuan Xiao directly to the piano room, but he saw his parents waiting on the sofa.

“Hello, Uncle and Auntie. My name is Yuan Xiao. I’m Fang Yao’s classmate. I was in a hurry yesterday and didn’t have time to introduce myself. Please forgive me, Uncle and Auntie.”

Before Fang Yao spoke, Yuan Xiao obediently introduced herself to Fang Yuan and Wei Lan.

“Hello, we’ll call you Xiao Xiao, alright?” Wei Lan was very satisfied when she saw how obedient and sensible Yuan Xiao was.

She walked to Yuan Xiao’s side, pulled her arm, and whispered, “This is the first time Ah Yao brought a friend home. His father and I welcome you very much.”

“I hear you’re doing great in school.”

Fang Yuan’s attitude towards Yuan Xiao was a little cold. Previously, because he had misunderstood the relationship between Fang Yao and Yuan Xiao, he was anxious and did not realize that Yuan Xiao was Yuan Ming and Sun Li’s daughter.

He had met Yuan Ming a few times and knew that his family had adopted the wrong daughter. Furthermore, he had also heard that this daughter of the Yuan Family, who was not related by blood, had worked hard to improve her results rapidly after knowing her background.

“It’s alright.” Yuan Xiao was very humble. She could be said to be an influential figure in school now. Everyone knew about her amazing learning ability.

“I’ll take Yuan Xiao to practice the piano first. Call us when it’s time to eat.” Fang Yao was unwilling to let Yuan Xiao continue chatting with his parents, so he pulled her upstairs to the piano room.

Wei Lan, who was still standing in the living room, was a little stunned. She asked Fang Yuan, who was beside her, “Hubby, did I hear wrongly? Is our son going to play the piano at home?”

Wei Lan had always been very happy because Fang Yao liked to play the piano. He was also very talented at playing the piano. However, there was once when Wei Lan was a little impatient when teaching Fang Yao how to play the piano, causing Fang Yao to swear never to play the piano in front of her again.

Fang Yao had always been rebellious and stubborn. Wei Lan had tried to persuade him many times but to no avail. She thought that she had ruined her youngest son’s only hobby and had always blamed herself.

“Ah Yao even wants to teach Xiao Xiao how to play the piano,” Fang Ming added as he looked at his shocked parents.

“Really?” Wei Lan’s eyes lit up. She muttered to herself, “I’m going to ask Auntie to prepare more dishes. Xiao Xiao is a good child. I have to take her seriously for making such a huge change in Ah Yao.”

With that, Wei Lan walked to the backyard. Fang Ming watched his mother leave and said to his father, “Dad, although it’s not good to fall in love at a young age, I think Xiao Xiao is really a good child. It’s best if you and Mom don’t interfere too much with them.”

Fang Ming understood his parents’ personality. Wei Lan was still alright. She was very open-minded and not an old-fashioned parent. However, Fang Yuan had always been stubborn. If he did not support Fang Yao, there would probably be a bloodbath in the family.

“I can’t do anything about it! That brat Ah Yao is getting more and more disobedient. He only knows how to cause trouble for me every day!”

Fang Yuan had put in a lot of effort because of Fang Yao’s rebellion. Previously, Fang Yao had injured the son of his business partner and refused to apologize, causing him to pay more than 10 million yuan.

Fang Yuan did not criticize Fang Yao too much, but he could not help but feel a little disappointed. His younger son was not obedient at all.

“Don’t say that.” Fang Ming had heard Lu Liu mention Fang Yao and Yuan Xiao before, but from Lu Liu’s words, Yuan Xiao did not seem to like his younger brother.

“If Xiao Xiao could stay by Ah Yao’s side, she might slowly change him.” Fang Ming could tell that Yuan Xiao was very special in Fang Yao’s heart.

48 Very Talented

“What can a little girl do!”

Although Fang Yuan had a good impression of Yuan Xiao, he did not think that an ordinary little girl could change his rebellious and willful son.

“Don’t underestimate her. I heard from Lu Liu that Xiao Xiao is an outstanding child. Moreover, she doesn’t seem to like our Ah Yao.”

Fang Ming saw the surprise on his father’s face.

“Really? Although Ah Yao doesn’t have a good temper, he has good looks. Does the young lady not like him?”

Although Fang Yuan always criticized Fang Yao, he was still very proud of his son. When he heard that the young lady did not like his son, he was a little unhappy.

“What’s the use of just being good-looking? Besides, the girl isn’t bad-looking either.” Fang Ming had already achieved his goal, so he continued to instruct his father, “So don’t get too involved. Let them develop on their own. We don’t know what will happen.”

After settling his parents’ emotions, Fang Ming rushed back to the hospital. After all, he was usually very busy with work and rarely had time during the day.

Upstairs, Fang Yao and Yuan Xiao had already started practicing. Fang Yao demonstrated to Yuan Xiao. His slender fingers danced nimbly on the black and white keys, playing a beautiful melody.

Although Yuan Xiao’s foundation was average, with the help of the system, her learning ability had greatly improved. When Fang Yao finished performing, she had already memorized all the techniques.

“How is it? Play it.” Fang Yao looked at the girl next to him and scratched his head unnaturally. “Play it slowly first. If there’s anything you don’t know, I’ll show you.”

Yuan Xiao nodded, took a deep breath, and began to repeat Fang Yao’s performance.

Almost identical piano notes sounded from the room. Fang Yao looked at Yuan Xiao beside him and was surprised by her performance.

“You’re improving too quickly.” After Yuan Xiao finished playing, Fang Yao could not help but praise, “With your learning ability, it won’t be long before you can play completely freely.”

Yuan Xiao was also very happy. She did not want to waste the artistic talent provided by the system. With Fang Yao’s help, she got a good opportunity.

“That’s all thanks to me having such a good teacher.” Yuan Xiao noticed that Fang Yao was a little embarrassed and said to him, “I can’t treat you badly. From tomorrow onwards, I’ll tutor you in your homework. I’ve already mastered the third-year textbooks. We can start studying directly.”

The originally harmonious atmosphere was broken by Yuan Xiao’s words. Fang Yao sighed and accepted reality. He asked hesitantly, “Can we start from the high school syallbus?”

“No way… You haven’t even learned the first-year textbook!” Yuan Xiao regretted agreeing to tutor Fang Yao. This guy was not only a school bully, but also a bad student.

“That was because I didn’t study hard! Just you wait. As long as I’m a little more serious, I’ll definitely be able to get into University A!”

Looking at Fang Yao’s serious expression, Yuan Xiao could not bear to dampen his spirits. She nodded and said to him, “Alright, I’m looking forward to it. I hope you won’t disappoint me.”

The two of them continued to practice the piano. Yuan Xiao mastered it very quickly, and Fang Yao could hardly point out her mistakes.

“Hubby, did I hear wrongly? Our son just said that he wants to get into University A?” Wei Lan, who was eavesdropping at the door, whispered to Fang Yuan behind her.

“You didn’t hear wrongly. Moreover, this kid is very confident. He’s a little like me when I was young. I was bold and confident.” Fang Yuan hid behind Wei Lan. When he heard his son’s bold words, he was also looking forward to his performance.

“Sigh, if only he could persevere. This is the first time I’ve seen him like this.” Wei Lan carefully closed the door crack and said to Fang Yuan with a smile, “Our son is really like you. He likes to put on a front with the person he likes.”

“That’s not putting on a front. The men of our Fang family can achieve whatever they say they would!” Fang Yuan heard the sound of the piano coming from the room and asked Wei Lan, “But this little girl plays the piano quite well. She seems to have some talent?”

Wei Lan nodded in agreement. Initially, she was a little worried that the two children was just using “learning the piano” as an excuse. So, she came up to take a look. She did not expect the two of them to really be serious about playing the piano.

“She does play well. If she can marry into our family in the future, I can still have a companion.” Wei Lan had always liked girls. Back then, she thought that she could give birth to a daughter for her second child. She did not expect to give birth to a little devil like Fang Yao. He was not cute at all.

“You’re thinking too soon. How old are they? They should still focus on their studies.”

49 Family Conflict

Fang Yuan sighed and turned to look at the closed door of the piano room. “We still have to keep an eye on him. I’m still worried about Fang Yao.”

“That’s enough. Don’t you know if our son is good at studying?” Wei Lan pulled Fang Yuan downstairs. She thought of the scene of Yuan Xiao and Fang Yao playing the piano together and felt that it was wonderful.

“I’m quite satisfied with that little girl. From what Ah Ming said, Ah Yao might not have wooed her yet. Shouldn’t we help our son?”

Seeing Wei Lan’s excited expression, Fang Yuan shook his head and said helplessly, “Other parents are worried about their children falling in love at a young age. You’re afraid that your son won’t be able to get a daughter-in-law?”

“Our son will be 18 next year. I’m not that old-fashioned. How this is early? Besides, it’s better to choose a daughter-in-law who’s pleasing to the eye than to bring back an annoying one.”

Wei Lan felt that Yuan Xiao was in line with her imagination of her future daughter-in-law. She was obedient, sensible, and more opinionated. She could control her son.

“I think the Yue family’s youngest daughter is not bad. I originally wanted to introduce her to Ah Ming when she’s older, but Ah Ming has never planned to get married. It would be good if she could be with Ah Yao. She’s more suitable in terms of age.”

When Wei Lan heard Fang Yuan’s words, she frowned unhappily. “Alright, stop using my son to maintain your relationship in the business world.”

“It’s not for the sake of marriage. I really think that child is not bad. Wouldn’t it be better to find someone of equal social status? After all, that child has already left the Yuan Family. I heard that her parents are now from poor families. She’s really not compatible with our Fang Family.”

Fang Yuan noticed that Wei Lan’s expression was getting darker and darker. He added worriedly, “I was just saying. You don’t have to tell Ah Yao.”

“Tell Ah Yao? Aren’t you afraid that your son will cut ties with you?”

Wei Lan pursed her lips. “Don’t be so old-fashioned. What era are we in now? You still care about family backgrounds. Don’t make things difficult for your son. As parents, we should hope that our child can live happily.”

Fang Yuan also nodded. The reason why he had always let Fang Yao live freely was because he hoped that Fang Yao could live as he pleased.

Fang Yuan only had two sons. Although his elder son, Fang Ming, was outstanding, he was focused on medical research. Fang Yuan could not stop him from making his own choice, but the Fang family’s business needed someone to inherit it. He was still young, but he needed the help of his two sons in the future.

Although Fang Yuan did not say it, Fang Yao took it very seriously. He hoped that he could inherit the family business that he had built with his own hands in the future. If he married a wife of equal social status, although Fang Yao’s future career would be helpful, Fang Yuan did not want his son to be unhappy.

Yuan Xiao and Fang Yao practiced for a long time until Wei Lan called them down for dinner. Only then did they walk out of the piano room.

“Xiao Xiao, Auntie thinks that your talent is not bad. Are you interested in learning from Auntie?” Wei Lan looked at Yuan Xiao, her eyes filled with love.

“Sure, I heard from Fang Yao that you’re a very famous pianist. It’s my honor to be able to learn from you.” Yuan Xiao felt that Wei Lan in front of her had a very friendly feeling, so her attitude towards her was especially enthusiastic.

“Really?” Hearing Yuan Xiao’s words, Wei Lan’s eyes were filled with surprise.

She thought that Fang Yao rarely mentioned her in front of his friends. It seemed that she was still very important to her son.

“Just let Yuan Xiao learn from me.” Fang Yao did not know why Yuan Xiao said that, but when he saw his mother’s happy expression, he did not refute. He just did not want anyone other than himself to teach Yuan Xiao how to play the piano.

Wei Lan was a little dissatisfied, but seeing that her son was very concerned about Yuan Xiao, she did not say anything else.

At Wei Lan’s request, the Fang Family had prepared a sumptuous meal. Yuan Xiao paid attention to etiquette, but the enthusiasm of the Fang Family surprised her.

Fang Yao had a rebellious personality and usually acted like he was keeping strangers away. Originally, Yuan Xiao thought that it was because Fang Yao’s parents were too strict with him that Fang Yao became more and more rebellious.

However, looking at the smiling Wei Lan in front of her, Yuan Xiao did not understand. Fang Yao’s parents looked very open-minded, but why was Fang Yao not close to them? Perhaps there was a misunderstanding between them?

“Ah Yao, if you want to study at University A, I can find you a tutor. I know a few professors at University A. You can visit them with me tomorrow.”

50 Touched

Hearing Fang Yuan’s words, Fang Yao questioned him in disbelief, “You eavesdropped on our conversation?”

“What are you talking about! It’s a good thing that you want to study. Why are you doing it behind your parents’ backs!” Fang Yuan was a little angry. He did not expect Fang Yao to have such a big reaction.

“Don’t argue. I heard it. Ah Yao, your father doesn’t mean anything by that. It’s a good thing that you want to get into university, but your grades are too low now. We want to help you.”

Wei Lan did not expect her husband to say it so directly. Thinking that Yuan Xiao was still present, she could only try her best to calm the conflict between the father and son.

“There’s no need! Whether I want to take the exam or not is my own business. It’s none of your business!” Fang Yao was angry. Just as he was about to say something, Yuan Xiao kicked his calf hard.

Fang Yao groaned in pain and looked at Yuan Xiao in confusion. He could not understand why she was stopping him.

“Uncle, Auntie, I will tutor Fang Yao. As long as he wants to study hard, he will definitely be able to do it. You should trust him.”

Yuan Xiao saw the expression on Fang Yuan’s face and finally understood why Fang Yao’s relationship with his family was so bad.

The father and son’s tempers bad. They could not talk properly at all.

“Trust him?” Fang Yuan snorted coldly and said to Yuan Xiao, “Ah Yao isn’t good at studying at all. We should go along with his big brother’s plans. After graduation, he’ll go straight to a business school overseas to study.”

When Yuan Xiao saw Fang Yao’s expression, she realized that his rebellion was indeed his parents’ fault.

“Uncle, should we make a bet?” Yuan Xiao’s expression was very serious. Even when facing Fang Yuan’s serious expression, she did not show any fear.

“What are we betting on?” Fang Yuan looked at the little girl in front of him, curious about what she would say next.

“I’ll tutor Fang Yao. He’ll definitely be able to get into University A with his own ability.” Yuan Xiao looked at Fang Yuan and Wei Lan and said, “Fang Yao is very outstanding. You should believe him. It’s precisely because you don’t have any hope for him that he gave up on himself. In fact, he’s not inferior to Brother Fang Ming!”

Yuan Xiao’s words caused the three people present to fall silent at the same time.

Fang Yao looked at the girl beside him and felt a little touched. This was the first time in his life that someone had said that he was not inferior to Fang Ming.

“Alright, I don’t have any expectations for Ah Yao. If you can get into A University with him, his mother and I will support you two being together!”

After Fang Yuan finished speaking, he heard Wei Lan cough lightly. “Alright, let’s eat.”

Yuan Xiao did not react for a moment. When she heard Wei Lan’s words, she could only smile awkwardly and continue eating.

It seemed that Fang Yao’s parents had misunderstood her relationship with Fang Yao. Yuan Xiao did not want to explain. She felt that since Fang Yao’s father felt that Fang Yao was not good enough, she would work hard to help Fang Yao get into University A and let them get to know her son again.

After dinner, Fang Yao took the initiative to send Yuan Xiao home. Seeing the two children leave, Wei Lan, who was in the living room, looked at Fang Yuan unhappily and said angrily, “What were you saying at the dining table just now? What’s wrong with Ah Yao? What do you mean you don’t have any expectations for him?”

“I’m just trying to make that little girl pay more attention to Ah Yao.” Fang Yuan smiled and sat beside Wei Lan. “That child has Ah Yao in her heart. It’s a good thing if the two of them can go to university together.”

Hearing Fang Yuan’s explanation, the displeasure in Wei Lan’s heart gradually subsided.

“Ah Yao’s personality is like yours. I think only that girl Xiao Xiao can control him!” Wei Lan noticed that Yuan Xiao had kicked Fang Yao during the meal just now. She felt that this child was very sensible and could achieve great things.

“If they can go to university together in the future, let them get married directly. When they graduate, we might be able to be grandparents.” Wei Lan’s eyes were filled with anticipation. She felt that Yuan Xiao should have a good impression of her son.

“I have to let Ah Yao work hard. Xiao Xiao is an outstanding girl. If she meets other suitors, Ah Yao might not have a chance of winning.” Fang Yuan felt that Yuan Xiao’s personality was very popular, and more and more people would definitely notice her.

“Our Ah Yao isn’t bad either. At the very least, he’s handsome.” Wei Lan was very confident in her son’s appearance.

Although Fang Yao’s personality was a little extreme, his face was still very deceptive. He should be very liked by girls.

“What’s the use of being handsome? The girl’s not bad either.” Fang Yuan remembered what Fang Ming had told him and told Wei Lan.