Chapter 131 Investigation
Qiao Nian opened her eyes. Her gaze was now tinged with coldness. She said icily, "Mom, if there's anything, just tell me over the phone!"
Su Xue's voice was filled with anger. "You utter wretch! I'm ordering you to go home right this instant! If it weren't for you, your sister wouldn't have been humiliated!"
Although Qiao Nian kept the phone pressed to her ear, Su Xue's voice was so loud that it was as though Qiao Nian had put the phone on speaker. Su Xue's hysterical roar reverberated around the entire car.
Chen Qing's grip on the steering wheel tightened involuntarily. He stared straight ahead, silently committing Su Xue's every word to memory. Qiao Nian gripped her phone tightly, her eyes gradually turning colder. She noticed that Su Xue had used the words "go home" instead of "come home". Her eyes flickered. "Since you're not at home, why should I go back?" With that, Qiao Nian hurriedly opened WeChat and sent a text to Old A.
(Please get me the location of the person who's currently speaking to me on the phone. I'll need it now.)
Su Xue was clearly gritting her teeth as she spoke. "Are you sure you have the time to ask me where I am? Let me tell you, if you don't apologize to your sister with enough sincerity, I will never forgive you! I will never let you off the hook, you wretched girl!"
Chen Qing's frown deepened. He was going to tell Second Young Master Gu everything he had heard, word for word.
Qiao Nian's expression didn't change. She was already used to Su Xue's insults. If she cared about what Su Xue said, she would just end up in a bad mood.
In fact, Qiao Nian had no desire to continue talking with a lunatic like Su Xue. However, in order to buy time, she continued speaking. "Apologize? Why should I apologize to her? She's the one who should apologize to me!" "You… you're a beast!" Su Xue was livid.
"If I'm a beast, then you must be a beast as well. Sometimes, I even wonder if I'm your biological daughter. Otherwise, why would you treat me as your enemy?"
When Su Xue heard Qiao Nian's words, her heart skipped a beat. With a tinge of guilt in her voice, she cursed, "You wretched girl! Aren't you getting too big for your boots? You aren't even taking us to be your parents!"
Qiao Nian continued staring at her WeChat. Right then, a notification appeared. She opened the message and saw that she had just received Su Xue's current location.
"I think my suspicions are well-founded. Why don't we do a paternity test some other day?" Qiao Nian said, sarcasm dripping from her words.
"I'm very disappointed in you. When you get home, I'll definitely teach you a lesson!"
With that, Su Xue hung up without hesitation.
Sitting in the back seat of the car, Qiao Nian turned to look out of the window, her eyes narrowing slightly.
In the past, she had always thought that she was her parents' biological daughter, and that they had only treated her the way they did because they didn't like her. But now, she was a little unsure.
Because Su Xue had panicked.
Although Qiao Nian hadn't grown up with Su Xue, Su Xue had always been calm and composed when Qiao Nian had seen her. This was the first time she had seen Su Xue panic. "Chen Qing, send me to Feng Yun Gym!" "Yes, ma'am."
Chen Qing turned on the GPS. Feng Yun Gym was not far away. They arrived in ten minutes.
From the car, Qiao Nian looked at the words on the building: Feng Yun Gym. Her beautiful eyes narrowed dangerously.
In fact, Qiao Nian hadn't decided to seek out Su Xue on a whim. Previously, because of the Suranne Grass incident, she had ordered people to keep an eye on Su Xue and Qiao Xin. What puzzled her was that Su Xue often visited this gymnasium.
From the impression Qiao Nian had of Su Xue, Su Xue wasn't someone who liked to work out.
Qiao Nian gripped her bag tightly. She wanted to see what Su Xue was doing in the gymnasium.
"Wait for me in the car."
"Yes, ma'am."
Qiao Nian got out of the car and walked into the gymnasium. Immediately, a fitness instructor bulging with muscles came up to greet her warmly, inviting her to apply for a membership.
"I'm sorry, I'm not here to work out. I'm here to look for someone." Qiao Nian smiled. Her voice was gentle, like springtime sunshine.
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"Who are you looking for?"
"I'm here to look for my mother. She should be a diamond-tier member here! She even said that she wanted to book a session today and asked me to bring over her bank card."
Qiao Nian's smile was very sweet, and her voice was very gentle. Coupled with her exquisitely beautiful face, the man believed her words without a doubt.
"May I know your mother's name?"
"Su Xue."
When the young man heard Su Xue's name, he immediately said with enthusiasm, "So you're the precious daughter of the Qiao family. Miss Qiao, Madam Su is in Room 19 in the private area reserved for guests. Just follow this path!"
"Thank you."
"No worries. I'm just doing what I should."
When Qiao Nian turned around, the smile on her face instantly vanished.
In less than two minutes, Qiao Nian walked to Room 19 in the private area.
Qiao Nian's gaze fell on the room number. It was indeed correct.
She pressed her ear against the door. The room seemed to be soundproofed, and she couldn't hear anything.
This door was locked with a password.
Qiao Nian hurriedly sent a text to Old A, asking him to unlock the password.
In less than two minutes, Old A had broken the password lock and opened the door remotely.
The owner of Feng Yun Gym specialized in private fitness spaces reserved for members of the upper-class society, so the security and privacy of the gymnasium were excellent.
Every room was very spacious, spanning 200 square meters. Qiao Nian walked in carefully and saw all kinds of fitness equipment in the hall. There was a pool not far away.
Not only that, there was also a resting area and bathroom.
There was no one in the hall. Qiao Nian walked towards the resting area. From afar, she heard strange noises coming from within the room.
Just as Qiao Nian was feeling puzzled, she heard slapping sounds coming from inside.
"Sister Su, you're really beautiful. I'm going to die because of you!" A man's rough voice came from inside.
Su Xue's sweet voice rang out as well. "Hurry up, then. I haven't had enough!"
Qiao Nian froze on the spot, as if she had been struck by lightning. She had never expected Su Xue to be with a gigolo.
Qiao Nian felt a wave of nausea. She nearly threw up. "Didn't you just call your daughter to ask her to return home? Won't you be in a hurry to return home?" The gigolo asked.
"Daughter? She doesn't deserve that title!" At the mention of this, Su Xue flew into a rage. She said furiously, "How could I have given birth to a wretch like that?"
"Sister Xue, don't be angry. Your health might get worse, and my heart will ache for you if that happens! I'll serve you well right now. Just lie back and enjoy the sensation!"
"Sure." Su Xue's voice seemed to gentle as she spoke. "Faster, faster!"
Qiao Nian stood outside. The expression in her eyes grew colder and colder, and her hands clenched rightly into fists.
Qiao Nian quietly stepped out of the room and closed the door again, as if she had never been there.
The moment she stepped out of the door, Qiao Nian bumped into the instructor who had welcomed her warmly.
"Miss Qiao, have you seen Madam Su?"
Qiao Nian looked around. There was no one else around. This meant that only this instructor was aware of what was happening here.
Qiao Nian's expression changed slightly. She took out a cheque from her bag, took out a pen, and wrote a string of numbers on the cheque. Then, she handed it to the coach and said, "This is one million dollars. In the future, don't tell anyone that I came here."
The instructor glanced at the cheque and looked at Qiao Nian in disbelief. Turning to glance at Su Xue's room number, he seemed to come to an understanding.
One million.
This was a huge sum.
He had never even seen so much money.
A trace of hesitation flashed in his eyes, and he shook his head. Smiling politely, he said, "Miss Qiao, don't worry. I won't take the cheque. I'll take it that I didn't see you here today."
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Qiao Nian glanced at him with a complicated expression. Seeing that he didn't seem to be a busybody, she put the cheque away. Her gaze was cold. "Remember your promise!"
Although this sentence couldn't be considered a threat, it still made the instructor's heart skip a beat. He hurriedly nodded and said, "Understood. I'll remember your instructions!"
Qiao Nian didn't say anything more. She walked out of the gymnasium.
At this moment, Chen Qing, who had been sitting in the car, was still on the phone. He was telling Gu Zhou everything he had heard from the phone call between Su Xue and Qiao Nian.
"Looks like it's finally time for the Qiao family to learn what it means to be sensible." Gu Zhou's voice trailed off, sounding extremely dangerous.
Chen Qing was also extremely dissatisfied with Su Xue's verbal abuse of Qiao Nian. Hearing Gu Zhou's words, he approved wholeheartedly. "That's right, that's right. The things they say to Madam are awful. I can't stand it!"
"Got it." Gu Zhou's tone was very calm.
Chen Qing frowned in confusion.
That was it?
Was Gu Zhou not going to say anything else?
Chen Qing did not dare to ask.
Gu Zhou continued impassively, "Now, all you have to do is follow her around. You don't have to pick me up."
Before Chen Qing could reply, Gu Zhou had already hung up. When Chen Qing heard the dial tone, he was momentarily stunned.
He was extremely puzzled. Second Young Master Gu had typically always defended Madam, but Second Young Master Gu seemed extremely impassive today. It seemed that he had no intention of defending Madam.
While Chen Qing was still in a daze, Qiao Nian walked out of the gym.
Chen Qing hurriedly got out of the car and opened the car door for Qiao Nian. Seeing that Qiao Nian's face was pale and that she was radiating a cold aura, he asked carefully, "Madam, where are we going next?"
Hatred flashed in Qiao Nian's eyes. "The Qiao family house."
Chen Qing quickly replied, "Yes, ma'am." He made a note to himself to investigate Feng Yun Gym later.
Chen Qing got back into the car, started it, and drove towards the Qiao family home.
Qiao Nian sat in the car. She paid no mind to the scenery outside the car. All she could think about was what Su Xue had just said.
Qiao Nian clenched her fists so tightly that the veins on the back of her hands bulged.
Perhaps in the eyes of that gigolo, Su Xue didn't mean what she said. Perhaps the gigolo thought that Su Xue was only speaking out of anger. However, Qiao Nian knew in her heart that that wasn't the case.
Moreover, judging from the gigolo's reaction, Su Xue had expressed similar sentiments to him many times.
She still remembered how every time Su Xue got angry at her, she would always say,
"I must have been cursed with bad luck to have raised a wretched child like you!"
"I raised you painstakingly, but in the end, you've grown up into an ingrate!"
"If I had known that you were like this, I wouldn't have brought you home back then!"
Wait a minute.
This time, Qiao Nian suddenly realized something. Every time Su Xue scolded her, she never used the phrase "give birth". She would only use the word "raise".
In the past, she hadn't thought too much about it, so she hadn't noticed this detail.
But now Qiao Nian finally understood Su Xue's choice of words.
Qiao Nian narrowed her eyes, the coldness in her gaze intensifying. She had to figure out if she truly was a biological daughter of the Qiao family!
In twenty minutes, the car arrived at the entrance of the Qiao family's villa.
Qiao Shan seemed to know of Qiao Nian's visit. He had been waiting at the door since early in the morning. When he saw Qiao Nian getting out of the car, he quickly walked forward.
Qiao Nian stood at the side, staring unblinkingly at Qiao Shan's face. This was the first time she had sized up Qiao Shan's facial features so seriously.
Indeed, not only did she not look like Su Xue, but she also did not look like Qiao Shan.
Seeing that Qiao Nian was standing there with no intention of admitting her mistake, Qiao Shan flew into a rage. He aimed a slap at Qiao Nian's face.
Qiao Nian continued looking at Qiao Shan intently, not saying a word.
Chen Qing was standing at the side. Seeing Qiao Shan's actions, his expression flickered. Quickly, he stepped forward and grabbed Qiao Shan's hand. He questioned coldly, "Mr. Qiao, what are you doing? Are you looking down on the Gu family?"
Qiao Shan was so angry that his blood was boiling. His darling daughter, Qiao Xin, had returned from the research institute in tears. In an aggrieved manner, she had told him everything that had happened there.
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If Qiao Nian hadn't caused trouble at the research institute, his darling daughter wouldn't have made a fool of herself. Now, Su Yan wouldn't be treating her with disdain either!
Qiao Shan's eyes were red with rage. He glared viciously at Chen Qing and roared, "Let go of me! Who do you think you are? I'm dealing with my own daughter. What has that got to do with Gu Zhou?!"
"Miss Qiao Nian has already married into the Gu family. Don't you think that's relevant?" Chen Qing said coldly.
With that, Chen Qing shook off Qiao Shan's hand forcefully.
Qiao Shan was no match for Chen Qing. He staggered two steps back.
At this moment, Qiao Xin ran out of the room, sobbing pitifully. She glared resentfully at Qiao Nian for a while, then her gaze finally landed on Qiao Shan's face.
"Father, after what happened today, I really can't meet anyone else. Sister was so ruthless, and humiliated me utterly in front of so many people. She didn't hold back at all. I can't live like this! Father, I'm really sorry. I won't be able to stay by your side any longer. Forgive me for not being a dutiful daughter! If there's a next life, I'm willing to be your daughter again! I'm sorry!"
With that, Qiao Xin ran full-tilt towards a tree. Her expression was one of determination and despair.
Qiao Shan instantly turned pale in fear. Swiftly, he pulled Qiao Xin back, tears falling from his eyes. "My darling daughter! Qiao Xin, you're my darling daughter. There must be a way to resolve this matter. Listen to your father. You must live well! Even if we have to go bankrupt, your father will find a way to settle this matter for you!"
When Qiao Nian heard Qiao Shan's words, her eyes narrowed dangerously.
In the past, she had always thought that Qiao Shan and Su Xue were just biased against her. Now it seemed that there was more to this than she had thought.
"Dad, don't stop me. I really don't have the dignity to continue living!" Qiao Xin cried until she was out of breath.
"My darling daughter, my darling daughter, you must not die. If you die, how will your mother and I live?" Qiao Shan's eyes were red. He held on tight to Qiao Xin, worried that Qiao Xin would take things too hard. He vented all his anger on Qiao Nian. Qiao Shan glared at Qiao Nian with hatred written all over his face. "You! You heartless and despicable wretch. It was you who brought such suffering to my darling daughter. Even the valuable plants belonging to the Qiao family have been all given away by you. Look at you now! You even hired a bodyguard to protect you. Do you think I won't dare to hit you just because of this? Servants! Bring me the whip!"
Qiao Shan was livid.
At this moment, a few servants stepped out of the Qiao family home.
"Take good care of Qiao Xin." After Qiao Shan handed Qiao Xin over to two of the servants, he said to the remaining servants, "Whip!"
One of the servants handed over a whip that had been prepared beforehand.
Qiao Shan grabbed the whip and pointed it at Qiao Nian. He said to the remaining servants, "The few of you, get this b*tch over here!"
B*tch.
Qiao Nian sneered and clenched her fists tightly, her nails digging into her palms. Her palms were already bleeding, but she didn't seem to feel any pain.
The servants rushed towards Qiao Nian.
Qiao Nian's gaze swept coldly across everyone. She raised her eyebrow, her voice increasing in volume. "Do any of you dare to touch me?"
At this moment, Qiao Nian's aura swept across the entire yard. In an instant, the servants who were rushing towards her found themselves subdued.
Qiao Shan watched as his servants retreated one by one. He was so angry that his lips were trembling. The whip in his hand cracked in the air. "You're rebelling. You're rebelling against your parents! How did I raise a beast like
you?!"
Yet again, the word "raise" was used.
Indeed, it wasn't only Su Xue who had never used the phrase "give birth". Qiao Shan hadn't as well.
Something sparked in Qiao Nian's eyes. If she wasn't a biological part of the Qiao family, perhaps that would be a good thing.
"When did you raise me?" Qiao Nian looked at Qiao Shan coldly.
When Qiao Shan heard Qiao Nian's words, he turned red with anger. "You ingrate! How did I not raise you? Did you grow up on air? You gave away such an expensive plant just like that. Did you even bother to ask me for permission? Do you still remember your parents? You only think of yourself in every scenario. Selfish beast!"
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Qiao Nian tucked her hair behind her ear and said unhurriedly, "Is that so? I've really never witnessed you raising me. I always thought I was an orphan!"
Qiao Shan was so angry that he choked. Livid, he raged, "You…"
"What about me?" Qiao Nian interrupted Qiao Shan's words without hesitation. Her tone dripping with ridicule, she said, "I was sent to live in the countryside with a distant relative, at an age too young to remember anything. What sort of family does that? Did you even pay any child support fees? I don't think so. If the elderly man who lived next door didn't take pity on me, and didn't raise me painstakingly as a child of his own, I would have died a long time ago. You keep saying that you've raised me, but when have you ever even taken care of me? You have the nerve to mention that you've raised me. You're truly shameless!" Qiao Shan's expression contorted with rage, his face alternating between shades of green and white. He said furiously, "You ingrate! Did I bring up any of that? I'm talking about those expensive plants and how you bullied your sister today. Your sister usually treats you so well! She even gave you her shares. Yet you've embarrassed her today!"
Qiao Shan rattled off so much in one breath that he nearly couldn't breathe. Taking a deep breath, he said, "Do you know that after what you've done today, your younger sister has become a joke in An City? Don't you know how to act like an elder sister? Don't you know how to take care of your younger sister?" Qiao Nian couldn't help but laugh. No matter what, Qiao Shan was still harping on those expensive plants and Qiao Xin's reputation.
"Forget about those plants. As long as it belongs to me, Qiao Nian, it has nothing to do with the Qiao family," Qiao Nian said expressionlessly.
At this moment, Su Xue returned. The moment she got out of the car, she heard Qiao Nian's words.
At this moment, Su Xue no longer cared that Qiao Nian was the Young Madam of the Gu family. She pounced on Qiao Nian, ready to hit
her.
But before Su Xue could get close to Qiao Nian, Qiao Nian kicked her away, causing her to fall flat on the ground.
Seeing Su Xue lying on the ground in a sorry state, Qiao Nian smiled and said, "Mom, did you do something shameful outside? Is that why you came back looking so apologetic?"
Su Xue, who was lying on the ground, felt her heart skip a beat, but she quickly calmed down. She spat out the mud in her mouth and stood up, wincing from the pain.
"You wretch! How dare you hit me? Are you no longer taking me to be your mother?!" Qiao Nian's gaze instantly turned icy. A cold smile appeared on her face as she asked, "Are you worthy?"
When Su Xue heard Qiao Nian's words, her eyes widened to the size of dinner plates. She thought she was hallucinating. "What… what did you say?"
At this moment, Qiao Xin was also stunned. Qiao Nian seemed to be acting a little strange today. Did Qiao Nian already know that she wasn't her parents' biological daughter?
This was impossible!
No one else knew about this.
But Qiao Nian was indeed a little strange today.
In the past, Qiao Nian would still acknowledge that she was Su Xue's biological daughter, at least on the surface level. But now, Qiao Nian no longer bothered even putting on a facade of respect.
Qiao Nian glared at Su Xue coldly. Thinking of what she had heard in the gym just now, she felt a wave of nausea. She questioned, "How are you fit to be a mother? When have you ever educated me? When have you ever provided for me? If you haven't, then don't speak to me as an elder! You're just a woman who's several decades older than me!"
Su Xue stood there in a daze, staring at Qiao Nian in disbelief. She hadn't expected Qiao Nian to say anything like that.
Qiao Shan's lips trembled in anger. "You're rebelling! I'll beat you to death!" This time, Qiao Shan didn't show any mercy. Using all his strength, he swung the whip in his hand towards Qiao Nian!
Qiao Shan's strength was immense, and he acted extremely quickly. Chen Qing, who was standing not far away, had no time to react.
Prev ChapterNext ChapterReport chapterChapter 136 Women Aren't Inferior to Men
Chen Qing's heart jumped to his throat. He was worried that Qiao Nian would be injured, and even more worried that she would be disfigured.
However, to Chen Qing's surprise, Qiao Nian had already moved in front of Qiao Shan in the blink of an eye.
Qiao Nian grabbed hold of Qiao Shan's hand. In a burst of strength, Qiao Shan's hand was neatly dislocated with a sharp crack. It was so painful that he couldn't move.
Qiao Shan was in so much pain that he dropped the whip in his hand. His face had gone pale, cold sweat breaking out on his forehead.
Chen Qing, who was standing not far away, heaved a sigh of relief. Only then did he remember how Madam had dealt neatly with everyone at Matriarch Shen's birthday banquet.
Madam was truly a heroine! She was the epitome of the statement: Women aren't inferior to men.
Qiao Xin, who was standing not far away, was utterly stunned by this scene. She looked at Qiao Nian in disbelief, muttering, "Qiao Nian, are you crazy? How dare you hit Mom and Dad? Aren't you afraid that the heavens will punish you? You'll be struck by lightning!"
"Why won't I dare to hit them?" Qiao Nian glared daggers at Qiao Xin, frightening Qiao Xin so much that she took two steps back. "Even if the gods choose to dole out punishment, the rest of you will be the first to be struck by lightning. You don't deserve to be a parent if you didn't bother raising your own children. From now on, I'll no longer have anything to do with you!"
In terms of science, she probably wasn't a biological daughter of the Qiao family!
In terms of kinship and affection, the other members of the Qiao family had always treated her extremely coldly. They had never cared for her.
Suppressing his pain, Qiao Shan put on his head-of-the-house voice and roared, "How dare you?"
"Why not?"
A cold voice rang from the side, the tone raising at the second word. The contempt was very obvious.
Everyone looked over and saw Gu Zhou walking over, wearing a well-fitted suit. Gu Zhou had arrived!
Chen Qing looked at Gu Zhou in disbelief. Previously, on the phone, Second Young Master hadn't seemed to care much about Madam's affairs, yet he had rushed over in such a short time. This was simply unbelievable!
Gu Zhou walked up to Qiao Nian, shielding her behind him. His eyes swept coldly across everyone present as he said, "Let's see who dares to go against anything I say today."
It was just a simple sentence, but Gu Zhou's aura was so powerful and overbearing that one couldn't help but feel afraid. His voice made one feel as if submission was the only option.
Qiao Shan's hand was aching terribly, but at this moment, he was so frightened by Gu Zhou's aura that he forgot about the pain. Fury burned in his chest, and his expression darkened to the extreme.
Gu Zhou was clearly looking down on the Qiao family.
Holding a tissue, Su Xue wiped the dust and mud off her face. Her face turned pale, and she couldn't say a word of rebuke.
Qiao Xin stood not far away, her body trembling non-stop. She hadn't expected Gu Zhou to protect Qiao Nian.
Gu Zhou smelled faintly of medicinal herbs. For some reason, that aroma was strangely pleasing
Qiao Nian hadn't expected Gu Zhou to arrive so soon either. She looked up at Gu Zhou and asked, "Have you finished discussing all the details regarding the research institute?"
When Gu Zhou heard Qiao Nian's voice, he turned to look at her. Instead of answering her immediately, he studied her carefully.
Qiao Nian met Gu Zhou's concerned gaze, and a warm smile appeared in her eyes.
Gu Zhou raised his hand and gently removed a leaf on Qiao Nian's head. In the next moment, he turned around, his expression dark. He glared coldly at Qiao Shan and his wife, his brow furrowed. "What have you done to my wife? How dare you bully her when I'm not around?"
Qiao Xin: "?"
Su Xue: "?"
Qiao Shan: "??!!!"
Heavens, who exactly was bullying whom?
Chen Qing, who was standing not far away, forcibly repressed his laughter. In the end, he simply couldn't hold back any longer. He turned to the side and secretly laughed.
Qiao Nian was speechless.
Actually, Qiao Nian really wanted to say that she wasn't a porcelain doll. She wasn't that delicate or fragile.
When she fought with Qiao Shan just now, she had already gotten what she wanted.
Su Xue stepped forward with a smile. Her face was dirty, but even so, there was a flattering smile on her face.
Now that Qiao Nian had married into the Gu family, she didn't want to lose this money tree.
"Second Young Master, you've really misunderstood us. We just had a small conflict just now. I spent ten months pregnant with Nian Nian before giving birth to her. How could I bully her? Don't misunderstand."
Prev ChapterNext ChapterReport chapterChapter 137 Kneel and Apologize
Su Xue swallowed and continued, "Nian Nian has been stubborn ever since she was a child. I just wanted her to take good care of you. I wanted her to place her focus on taking care of you, not on her work. That made her angry."
Qiao Shan had initially wanted to use this opportunity to cut ties with Qiao Nian, but when he heard Su Xue mention work, he realized that Qiao Nian might possess things that were worth even more than Suranne Grass and Moonlight Grass.
For the sake of money, Qiao Shan felt that he could give up his dignity.
Suppressing the pain, Qiao Shan gave a tragic smile. "Son-in-law, you've really misunderstood me. How could we bear to bully her?"
Looking at Qiao Shan and Su Xue's pretentious faces, Qiao Nian felt a wave of disgust.
Gu Zhou did not speak.
When Qiao Shan and Su Xue's faces had already grown stiff from smiling, Gu Zhou turned to look at Chen Qing. "Chen Qing, you tell me."
Chen Qing's eyes lit up. It was finally his turn.
Chen Qing stepped forward and cleared his throat. In a vivid manner, he repeated the awful words Su Xue had said to Qiao Nian on the phone. He also acted out in detail the scene of Qiao Shan and Qiao Xin bullying Qiao Nian the moment she had returned to the Qiao family's residence.
Chen Qing felt that his acting skills were off the charts. If he became an actor, he might even receive an Oscar.
Nearing the end, Chen Qing began to add his own embellishments. "I won't repeat the other insults they threw at Madam. After that, Qiao Shan even got the servants to surround Madam. He said that he wanted to break Madam's legs, pull out her tendons, and skin her alive. He insisted on beating Madam to death. If it weren't for the fact that Madam still had a little ability to protect herself, I'm afraid Madam would have been tortured to the point where only a pile of bones would remain!"
Qiao Shan: I don't remember being that fierce??
Su Xue's face turned red with anger. "You're spouting nonsense!"
Qiao Xin said weakly, "Brother Chen Qing! You can't embellish the story!"
Chen Qing straightened his back, raising an eyebrow. "Even if I am embellishing, there must have been something to add embellishments to in the first place. Besides, I'm just stating the facts. At most, I'm repeating what you all thought deep down."
Gu Zhou radiated off a cold aura, causing the people around him to shiver in fear.
"Who among these people insulted Madam?"
Chen Qing's gaze swept over everyone. Without hesitation, he said loudly, "All of them!"
Gu Zhou's eyes turned cold. "In that case, all of you kneel down and apologize to my wife!"
Qiao Shan froze. What?
Asking him to kneel down and apologize to Qiao Nian?
How was this possible?
His head could be chopped off. His blood could flow. But no matter what, his knees could not touch the ground!
Gu Zhou smiled at Qiao Shan and raised his voice. "Why? Are you unwilling?"
A trace of panic flashed across Su Xue's face. Her body swayed on the spot. If a servant hadn't been supporting her, she might have collapsed.
Su Xue said hesitantly, "How… How can you say that? No parent would kneel down and apologize to their daughter…" "Your daughter?" Gu Zhou's expression darkened. "She's now officially my wife!"
Gu Zhou's tone was so forceful that even Qiao Nian was stunned.
Qiao Nian looked at Gu Zhou's tall and broad figure. For a moment, she couldn't tell if Gu Zhou was doing this for her or for the sake of the Gu family's dignity.
Qiao Xin gritted her teeth.
When she left the research facility today, Brother Su Yan was already giving her the cold shoulder. He had left her on the road, driving off without a backward glance.
At that time, she was heartbroken.
But how was this fair?
How could Qiao Nian be shielded by such a good man like Gu Zhou while her boyfriend Su Yan found her embarrassing to be with?
She was clearly more outstanding than Qiao Nian. Why wasn't anyone protecting her today? "I'll make this clear today. Qiao Nian is my wife. No matter how big of a mess she has gotten into, I'll bear the consequences. If any of you dare to say a single word of abuse to her, or even lay a finger on her, don't blame me for being impolite!"
With that, Gu Zhou turned to look at Chen Qing. "Everyone who insulted Madam. Hit them!"
Gu Zhou's tone was arrogant and overbearing, frightening everyone present.
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When Qiao Nian heard Gu Zhou's words, her breath caught in her throat. In that instant, everything around her seemed to fade away. All she could see was Gu Zhou.
It was as if something had struck her heart, rippling through her body.
Qiao Nian looked at Gu Zhou's tall and broad back. Other than her grandfather, he was the only man who had ever defended her like this.
Qiao Nian wasn't the only one who was stunned. Qiao Shan and his family of three were also shocked.
Qiao Shan looked at Gu Zhou in disbelief. He didn't know what kind of drug Qiao Nian had given Gu Zhou to make him be so loyal to her.
The corners of Chen Qing's mouth couldn't help but curve up. He flexed his muscles. He had wanted to beat up those members of the Qiao family for a long time, but he hadn't dared to act rashly. These people from the Qiao family were simply scum. They belonged to the dregs of society. Their very existence was a waste of space, and their lives were merely a waste of oxygen.
However, before Chen Qing could make a move, Gu Zhou stopped him. "Wait."
Chen Qing looked at Gu Zhou in confusion.
Gu Zhou's gaze fell on Qiao Nian's face. He said, "You should do it. Get your dignity back!"
Chen Qing gave a small sigh. It was truly a pity that such a good opportunity did not fall into his lap. His Second Young Master was truly treating him better and better. He wouldn't let Chen Qing do any work.
He would even pay Chen Qing a salary every month. As Second Young Master's bodyguard, he really wanted to do something for Second Young Master, or at least contribute in some way. Unfortunately, he did not have the chance to do so.
At this moment, Qiao Shan was dumbfounded. He looked at Gu Zhou in disbelief.
Did Gu Zhou want Qiao Nian to hit him personally? It was simply unforgivable for a daughter to strike her father. The heavens would not accept it! She would be struck by lightning!
Gu Zhou was clearly trampling on the Qiao family's dignity.
If Qiao Nian hit him, he would be utterly humiliated. How would he continue living in An City?
Gu Zhou was trying to ruin him!
Before Qiao Nian did anything, Su Xue was already trembling in fear. She could already sense the impression of Qiao Nian's slap on her face.
She, Su Xue, had held her head high her entire life. She had never faced any obstacles in getting what she wanted, her entire life. Never had she been wronged so badly!
Qiao Xin's eyes were as red as a rabbit's. Her gaze fell on Qiao Shan and Su Xue's pale faces. She bit her lip, the anger in her eyes obvious.
All of this was Qiao Nian's fault!
It was Qiao Nian who sided with outsiders instead of their family. She gave away all of their family's good things, and even squandered the family's fortune!
How could Qiao Nian get Gu Zhou's protection just by acting innocent? She didn't deserve it at
all!
This wasn't fair. This wasn't fair at all!
Gu Zhou's gaze fell on Qiao Nian's face, signaling for her to make a move. He exuded a suffocating aura, frightening everyone to the point where they didn't dare to move.
Qiao Nian's gaze fell on Gu Zhou's face, and her heart gradually warmed. Heat flowed through her veins to every part of her body, and her entire body felt warmed from within.
Of course, Qiao Nian would never plead on behalf of the Qiao family. Moreover, she had been waiting so long for the opportunity to slap them!
The first person she wanted to hit was Su Xue.
In her high heels, Qiao Nian advanced towards Su Xue step by step.
Narrowing his phoenix eyes, Gu Zhou looked at Qiao Nian's straightened back. A trace of approval flashed in his eyes.
The wife of Gu Zhou should indeed look like this.
Su Xue's legs began to tremble involuntarily. Looking at Qiao Nian, who was getting closer and closer, her heart began to race.
Qiao Nian had already been violent with her when she had just returned home.
She was very certain that Qiao Nian would hit her!
Qiao Xin quickly walked up to Su Xue and shielded her behind her. She looked at Qiao Nian angrily and said angrily, "Qiao Nian, you can't hit Mom. You'll be struck by lightning. You…"
"Pa!"
Qiao Nian gave Qiao Xin a resounding slap across the face. Since Qiao Xin wanted to protect Su Xue, then she would start with Qiao Xin!
Qiao Xin was dumbfounded. She was so shocked that she couldn't speak.
Qiao Nian didn't hold back at all. She had learned Taekwondo, so the strength behind her slap was immense. A purplish-green palm print appeared on Qiao Xin's pale face.
Staring at Qiao Nian, Qiao Xin covered her cheek, her tears falling uncontrollably.
Prev ChapterNext ChapterReport chapterChapter 139 Qiao Xin Wants to Fight Back
Hatred flashed in Qiao Xin's eyes as she glared viciously at Qiao Nian. If looks could kill, Qiao Nian would have died a thousand times over.
The sound of the slap rang out, so loud that it might have reached the ends of the earth. Su Xue's heart began to race. She hurriedly pulled Qiao Xin over and said with heartache, "Oh my god! Xinxin, turn around. Let Mom take a look!"
Qiao Xin stood rooted to the ground, glaring at Qiao Nian with resentment written all over her face.
She was the precious daughter of the Qiao family. In the past, her life had always been smooth-sailing. However, this morning, Qiao Nian had ruined her reputation in front of all the big shots in the medical field. Now, she had even slapped her in public.
The humiliation was so great that she couldn't even cry. She could only glare at Qiao Nian indignantly, full of rage.
Qiao Nian stood there calmly. She gently blew on her palm and looked up, the epitome of casualness. "If you're indignant, then hit me back."
Qiao Xin clenched her fists tightly. How could Qiao Nian hit and scold her whenever she wanted? Qiao Nian was clearly a bastard child. That's right, Qiao Nian was a bastard!
Qiao Nian's mother was a country bumpkin, a woman who amounted to nothing!
The more Qiao Xin thought about it, the angrier she became. She was the precious daughter of the Qiao family. She belonged among the elite, while Qiao Nian was just a contemptible woman of low status. Why should she allow Qiao Nian to bully her?
Qiao Xin's eyes burned with rage. She raised her hand and aimed a slap at Qiao Nian's face.
Then, her hand was grabbed by Gu Zhou in midair.
Gu Zhou exerted strength with his ten fingers.
Crack!
Immediately following that was the sound of a wrist being dislocated, followed by Qiao Xin's tragic scream Gu Zhou let go with a disdainful expression.
Qiao Xin staggered back in pain, almost passing out from the agony.
When Qiao Shan and Su Xue heard Qiao Xin scream, their hearts ached. They yearned to bear the pain in Qiao Xin's stead.
Gu Zhou took out a tissue and wiped his hands slowly. Then, he threw the tissue aside in disdain, as if there was something dirty on it.
There was a dangerous glint in Gu Zhou's eyes. His gaze swept over the three members of the Qiao family. Turning to Qiao Nian, he said, "Go on."
Seeing Gu Zhou like this, the three Qiao family members stood rooted to the ground in fear, not daring to move.
Seeing Gu Zhou like this, Chen Qing's heart surged with emotion. He felt that Second Young Master and Madam were simply carved from the same mold.
The two of them were truly a well-matched couple!
Just now, Madam had also dislocated Qiao Shan's wrist, displaying her powerful personality.
For the rest of his life, he would refuse to take anyone else to be Young Madam Gu!
Seeing Qiao Nian flex her wrist, as if she was really going to hit everyone, Qiao Shan couldn't help but panic.
If Qiao Nian really slapped him, he would be thoroughly embarrassed today.
This wouldn't do. This wouldn't do at all. He had to take control of the situation. He would deal with Qiao Nian slowly when he had the chance in the future.
At the thought of this, Qiao Shan's tone softened. A flattering smile appeared on his face as he spoke, attempting to persuade her. "Nian Nian, does your hand hurt? We're all family. How can we hurt each other? By the law of action and reaction, your hand will hurt when you hit other people! Be good, listen to Dad. Don't hit anyone again. By the way, you won't have to move those plants back home anymore."
When Qiao Nian heard Qiao Shan's words, she snorted. "Those plants had nothing to do with you in the first place. You took my things, yet you're pretending to be generous. If not you, who else would I hit?"
"Nian Nian, listen to Dad. Dad won't harm you. You…"
Before Qiao Shan could finish speaking, Qiao Nian slapped him hard across the face.
Qiao Shan's eyes widened. He touched his burning cheek and looked at Qiao Nian in disbelief.
Oh my god.
Qiao Nian was truly rebelling.
His legs gave way. How dare Qiao Nian hit him, her father!
This was the first time in Qiao Shan's life that he had been slapped by someone. Moreover, it was by Qiao Nian, this wretched, worthless girl.
Prev ChapterNext ChapterReport chapterChapter 140 Do It
Qiao Shan had been humiliated utterly. He had no dignity left.
"You…" Qiao Shan was so angry that his lips were trembling
"Mr. Qiao Shan, have you forgotten that I no longer have anything to do with the Qiao family?" Qiao Nian said calmly.
Qiao Xin, who was standing at the side, had already lost her mind. She roared, "Qiao Nian, are you crazy? How dare you act out? This is Dad we're talking about. Do you still want to hit Mom after hitting Dad?"
Hearing Qiao Xin's words, Su Xue hurriedly covered Qiao Xin's mouth.
Her silly daughter. How could she say anything more at a time like this? What if Qiao Nian really stepped forward to hit her?
Su Xue's heart jumped to her throat. She looked at Qiao Nian in fear, meeting her gaze.
Su Xue didn't quite dare to meet Qiao Nian's eyes. She lowered her gaze uneasily.
She was already prepared to be slapped.
At this moment, Su Xue felt as if there was a knife hanging over her head. She didn't know when this knife would fall.
Su Xue waited for a long time. Seeing that Qiao Nian didn't make a move, she looked up at her.
She saw that Qiao Nian had been staring at her the entire time. It was a terrible feeling, and it made her hair stand on end.
"I'll save your beating for another day. Be prepared for it in the future," Qiao Nian said coldly.
Once she figured out what the conversation between Su Xue and the gigolo meant, she would get even with Su Xue.
Hearing Qiao Nian's words, Su Xue heaved a long sigh of relief, thinking that she had finally escaped the ordeal.
"Chen Qing." Gu Zhou raised his eyebrow, his gaze falling on Su Xue's face.
Chen Qing followed Gu Zhou's gaze and instantly understood. Su Xue felt a chill run down her spine. She cursed silently when she saw Chen Qing walking towards her.
Su Xue stepped back uneasily, but Chen Qing grabbed her by the collar.
Chen Qing looked at Su Xue's sanctimonious face and felt a wave of irritation. He flung a slap at her face.
Chen Qing's strength was so great that Su Xue's neatly arranged hair flew into a mess.
At this moment, Su Xue was already seeing stars. Half of her face was swollen, and she didn't even dare to cry. She looked extremely disheveled.
Only then did Gu Zhou retract his gaze in satisfaction. He looked at Qiao Nian and said in a low and magnetic voice, "Let's back home. Grandma wants us home for dinner."
With that, Gu Zhou took Qiao Nian's hand and got ready to leave with her.
Qiao Xin, who was standing not far away, noted Gu Zhou's gentle manner towards Qiao Nian. Her eyes couldn't help but turn red.
This kind of quiet happiness should have belonged to her.
She couldn't take this lying down!
She wouldn't go down without a fight!
She had to get back the happiness that belonged to her. After Gu Zhou and Qiao Nian left, Qiao Xin's lips trembled in anger. She said furiously, "Mom, Dad, Qiao Nian has gone too far. How dare she be so arrogant!"
Qiao Shan was also furious, but he didn't dare to touch Qiao Nian at all. He was worried that Gu Zhou would interfere with the Qiao family's business.
But Qiao Xin couldn't think about that. All she could think about was revenge!
Qiao Xin said tearfully, "When Big Brother comes back, we must teach Qiao Nian a lesson!"
When Qiao Shan heard Qiao Xin's words, his heart skipped a beat, and his lips curved up involuntarily.
His eldest son, Qiao Yu, was the most capable child in the Qiao family. If Qiao Yu knew that they had been bullied to such a state by Qiao Nian, he would definitely punish Qiao Nian.
The knot in Qiao Shan's heart gradually loosened.
Qiao Xin sobbed as she asked, "Dad, when will Big Brother be back?"
Qiao Shan raised his hand, and his face turned pale from the pain. However, when he thought of his eldest son, his eyes were filled with pride. "He will definitely return home before the lecture at the Second Academy of Medicine begins."
Covering the swollen half of her face, Su Xue smiled. She asked happily, "Really?"
"Of course it's true. He was specially invited by Director Lin to give a speech. No one has received such a great honor in An City!" Qiao Shan straightened his back and said proudly.
Prev ChapterNext ChapterReport chapterChapter 141 Get Out of the Car
Hearing Qiao Shan's words, Su Xue couldn't help but smile. She seemed to have forgotten all about the pain.
That's right. Her eldest son, Qiao Yu, was the most promising child in their family.
As long as Qiao Yu returned home, Qiao Nian wouldn't be able to act high and mighty for long.
Su Xue had suffered at Qiao Nian's hands today, and had lost her dignity. No matter what, she would get Qiao Yu to make Qiao Nian pay for what she had done, a thousand times over.
Qiao Nian sat in the back seat of the car. She stole a glance at Gu Zhou, who was sitting next to her.
To be honest, she was not used to Gu Zhou treating her so well. The change was so sudden.
At this moment, Gu Zhou was sitting with his legs crossed. His eyes were closed, and his fingers were toying with the ring on his thumb, as if he was musing about something. Even though Gu Zhou's eyes were closed, the aura around him did not weaken in the least.
Gu Zhou's face was a masterpiece. His features seemed to have been crafted in the heavens. No matter the angle from which one looked at him, one would not be able to take their eyes off him.
Qiao Nian gazed unblinkingly at Gu Zhou, momentarily dazed.
Gu Zhou's brow furrowed slightly. His eyelashes moved, and he opened his eyes fully.
"Why are you staring at me like that?" Gu Zhou looked at Qiao Nian, his eyes darkening a shade.
Qiao Nian froze. Gu Zhou had his eyes closed the entire time. How did he know that she was staring at him?
Qiao Nian coughed awkwardly in an attempt to hide her embarrassment. The tips of her ears gradually turned pink.
Gu Zhou realized that Qiao Nian was embarrassed. He couldn't help but smile. "Mrs. Gu, you don't have to peek so secretively at me. You're my lawfully wedded wife. You can look at me whenever you want. If you wish, you can stare at me all day."
Qiao Nian smiled slightly and said, "You seem to be in a good mood today." "Yes," Gu Zhou answered lightly.
Now, Gu Zhou no longer gave off that cold hostility. Instead, he gave off a gentle aura.
Qiao Nian recalled how Gu Zhou had protected her in front of the Qiao family just now. Her heart began to race, and for some reason, her mouth felt dry.
"Thank you for just now," Qiao Nian said with utmost sincerity.
Hearing Qiao Nian's words, Gu Zhou frowned. For some reason, he felt a little displeased.
Gu Zhou's eyes gradually turned cold. He stared unblinkingly at Qiao Nian, enunciating each word clearly as he spoke. "Mrs. Gu, you are my wife and the Young Madam of the Gu family. There's no need to draw the line between us so clearly. Don't thank me again." Qiao Nian had always known that Gu Zhou was helping her for the sake of the dignity of the Gu family. But even so, she was still very grateful to Gu Zhou.
Because other than her grandfather, Gu Zhou was the only man who had ever protected her.
Qiao Nian's beautiful eyes were filled with stars. She looked at Gu Zhou earnestly. "I understand, but I still want to thank you."
Gu Zhou's good mood instantly vanished. His entire body emitted a cold aura, and his voice turned frigid. "Stop the car."
Chen Qing looked around and said carefully, "The sky is already dark, and we're still far from the city. What if we encounter bandits?"
Gu Zhou's expression darkened. His eyes were like two jet-black pools of ink, containing not even a trace of light. "Stop the car!"
Chen Qing looked up carefully. Through the rearview mirror, he took in the two people sitting in the backseat.
Second Young Master Gu, who could frighten anyone to the point where they would become a trembling mess. Young Madam Gu, who could beat the shit out of anyone. Indeed, neither of them would be worried about the possibility of bandits.
Chen Qing hesitated for a moment. Sensing the oppressive aura Gu Zhou was exuding, he silently parked the car by the road.
"Get out of the car!" Gu Zhou's voice was as cold as ice.
Chen Qing's hands, which were holding onto the steering wheel, trembled slightly. Second Young Master Gu had taken such good care of Madam just now. Gu Zhou's words were probably directed at him.
jere
"Then… then should I get out first?" Chen Qing probed carefully.
"Stay seated."
Qiao Nian was slightly stunned. She turned to look at Gu Zhou and saw his dark expression. Did Gu Zhou want her to get out of the car?
Gu Zhou had clearly been in a good mood just now. Why had his mood changed for the worse so quickly?
"You! Get out of the car!" Gu Zhou turned to look at Qiao Nian with narrowed eyes.
Chen Qing: "??!!!"
Qiao Nian: "?"
Prev ChapterNext ChapterReport chapterChapter 142 Why Did You Say Thank You
Qiao Nian didn't know what she had said to anger Gu Zhou. She opened the door and got out of the car without hesitation, slamming the door shut without looking back.
The moment she closed the door, the car began to move.
Qiao Nian really hadn't expected Gu Zhou to abandon her in the wilderness!
Qiao Nian watched as the car drove further and further away, and realized that Gu Zhou was really going to leave her behind. She was speechless. How could this man be happy for one moment, then immediately fly into a rage the next? He changed his moods even faster than a child!
In the car, Chen Qing shrank under the overwhelming pressure. He was trembling.
His hands were covered in cold sweat. As he watched the figure of Qiao Nian grow smaller and smaller, the unease in his heart grew. "Um, Master Gu, Young Madam might be afraid of the dark. Should we turn back and pick her up?" Chen Qing asked tentatively. The cold aura around Gu Zhou intensified. "Are you so eager to invite humiliation?" Chen Qing: "?"
Chen Qing didn't understand at all. How would his Master Gu be humiliated within his own family?
Moreover, with Madam's capability, she would definitely find a cab within minutes.
Chen Qing kept quiet, and continued driving.
"Turn back."
Chen Qing's hands trembled. His intelligence must be a little lacking. He couldn't understand what Master Gu was trying to say at all.
"Go back!"
Chen Qing: Didn't he say that he wasn't going to invite humiliation?
Wasn't this doing the exact opposite?
Chen Qing did not dare to voice his thoughts, much less ask Master Gu what he was doing.
The sky was already fully dark, and the streetlights emitted a dim light.
Qiao Nian took out her phone. She felt that it might be dangerous for her to remain here any longer. She got ready to call someone to pick her up.
She would definitely settle scores with Gu Zhou when she got back.
Just as she took out her phone, a car suddenly stopped near her.
The car's headlights were still on, and the lights were so bright that she could barely keep her eyes open.
Instinctively, Qiao Nian raised a hand to shield her eyes.
At this moment, Chen Qing turned off the headlights.
Gu Zhou got out of the car and walked towards Qiao Nian.
With great foresight, Chen Qing had stopped the car about one hundred meters away from Qiao Nian, leaving room and privacy for her and Gu Zhou.
Seeing that Gu Zhou had arrived, a trace of confusion flashed in Qiao Nian's eyes. With a displeased expression, she questioned, "Gu Zhou, what exactly are you doing?"
Qiao Nian's face was slightly flushed from anger, and the rage in her eyes was clearly visible. She looked like a furious kitten. Her anger was strangely adorable, making one feel the urge to pet her head.
Suppressing his desire to touch Qiao Nian's head, Gu Zhou's gaze inadvertently fell on her pouting lips. His eyes darkened by several shades.
When Gu Zhou didn't reply, Qiao Nian frowned. With displeasure written all over her face, she said, "What exactly are you doing?"
Gu Zhou placed his right hand in his pocket and looked down at Qiao Nian commandingly. "You're my wife."
"Yes. We've already registered our marriage!" Qiao Nian thought to herself that when she had finished dealing with the rotten Qiao family, and when Gu Zhou had recovered, she would be able to divorce Gu Zhou.
Gu Zhou narrowed his phoenix-like eyes, a trace of coldness appearing in them. "Since that's the case, why did you still thank me?"
Qiao Nian was speechless.
Gu Zhou had chased her off the car in a rage just now because she had thanked him.
Qiao Nian was a little confused. What kind of logic was Gu Zhou following?
Qiao Nian looked at Gu Zhou in confusion. "Isn't thanking you a basic courtesy?"
"I don't need you to be courteous to me."
When Qiao Nian heard Gu Zhou's words, she was a little stunned. She hesitated for a while, then asked, "Did you come back just to tell me this?"
"Come home with me!"
Qiao Nian: Then what exactly was he trying to achieve?
Was he trying to make her stop thanking him?
Gu Zhou's way of thinking was truly incomprehensible to ordinary people.
Qiao Nian was completely at a loss as to how to deal with Gu Zhou. She pursed her lips. She couldn't be bothered to ask any more questions.
Prev ChapterNext ChapterReport chapterChapter 143 Touched
Gu Zhou waved at Chen Qing, who was in the car not far away.
Chen Qing hurriedly drove over. After parking the car, he hurriedly got out and opened the door.
Qiao Nian's gaze fell on Gu Zhou's face. Seeing that Gu Zhou had defended her today, she decided not to make a fuss. Hence, she got into the car.
Chen Qing was sitting in the driver's seat, driving. He snuck a glance at Gu Zhou and Qiao Nian in the rearview mirror. His lips curved up slightly. It seemed that Master Gu's feelings for his wife had changed. In the past, Master Gu had never been one to chase after women…
When Gu Zhou and Qiao Nian returned to the Gu family villa, Qiao Nian was called away by Matriarch Gu immediately. Matriarch Gu said that there was something very important.
Matriarch Gu brought Qiao Nian to her office and said excitedly, "Come in quickly. I have a huge matter to discuss with you!"
Qiao Nian saw that there was a lot of fabric in Matriarch Gu's office. There was also a sewing machine and a workbench beside it.
Matriarch Gu smiled at Qiao Nian and said gently, "Nian Nian, you've arrived at the right time. Come over quickly, I'll help you take your measurements."
Zhao Qian, who had been standing at the side, froze for a moment. After a beat, she smiled at Qiao Nian. "Second Sister-in-law, good evening." Smiling, Qiao Nian greeted Zhao Qian.
"Qian Qian, where's the tape measure?" Matriarch Gu smiled at Zhao Qian.
Zhao Qian hurriedly brought the tape measure over.
Matriarch Gu was in a very good mood. With a smile on her face, she said, "I knew your figure the moment I saw you. However, in order to make a gown that will fit you better, I plan to take your measurements more precisely."
When Qiao Nian heard Matriarch Gu's words, a trace of emotion flashed in her eyes.
Before Matriarch Gu retired, she had been a world-renowned fashion designer. Celebrities would fight among themselves just to get their hands on a dress Matriarch Gu had designed.
Moreover, there were rumors that Matriarch Gu had once helped her daughter-in-law make an embroidered wedding gown. The value of that gown had skyrocketed to an immense amount.
Not only that, but that wedding gown had become the favorite of people all around the world, and still retained that status today.
Seeing Matriarch Gu taking her measurements seriously, Qiao Nian felt a warmth in her heart. She said, "Grandma, you haven't recovered yet. Don't go to so much trouble. It will consume too much of your energy. It won't be good for your health."
When Matriarch Gu heard Qiao Nian's words, she said with emotion, "My darling child, I knew you would say that. You're just too concerned about me."
Matriarch Gu paused for a moment, then continued, "After what happened the last time, I've learned one thing. When one is alive, one should not leave behind any regrets. I want to make a perfect gown for you in my lifetime."
"Grandma, I don't attend banquets. I don't need evening gowns," Qiao Nian said gently.
"Child, you're really humble. I heard from Ah Zhou that you'll be giving a speech at the Second Academy of Medicine as a lecturer. It's such an important event! You can't continue keeping a low profile there. I hope that you'll wear the gown I've made for you. When the time comes, you'll be the center of attention, and everyone will know how outstanding you are," Matriarch Gu said earnestly. When Qiao Nian heard this, her eyes grew hot. If she had felt some warmth in her heart before, she was even more touched now.
Although Matriarch Gu was not her biological grandmother, she took Qiao Nian to be her own granddaughter and treated her so well.
Qiao Nian's thin lips moved slightly. "Grandma."
She still wanted to thank Matriarch Gu, but the words were stuck in her throat. Her eyes were a little watery as she smiled and said, "Alright, I'll listen to Grandma. I'll definitely surpass everyone else in beauty at the lecture. I'll stun everyone!"
When Matriarch Gu heard Qiao Nian's words, she smiled so happily that her eyes curved into crescents.
Prev ChapterNext ChapterReport chapterChapter 144 Showing off
"That's more like it. Alright, I've already taken the measurements I need." As Matriarch Gu spoke, she jotted down all the data she had measured.
Qiao Nian's gaze fell on Matriarch Gu's face, and her heart warmed. However, she was still very worried about Matriarch Gu's health.
"Grandma, the speech will be in five days. If you plan on making me a new gown, time will be rather tight, and I'm afraid your health won't be able to take it. If you're even a little unwell, let me know at once, okay?"
Qiao Nian smiled at Matriarch Gu. She couldn't bear to reject Matriarch Gu's good intentions.
When Matriarch Gu heard Qiao Nian's words, she smiled so wide that her eyes nearly disappeared. "My darling child, you're Grandma's favorite!"
"I'll make some herbal soup for you." Qiao Nian smiled gently at Matriarch Gu.
"Alright, don't tire yourself out." Matriarch Gu looked at Qiao Nian dotingly.
After Qiao Nian left Matriarch Gu's office, Zhao Qian helped Matriarch Gu lay out the fabric neatly.
With Qiao Nian's measurements as a guide, Matriarch Gu began snipping the fabric excitedly.
"Grandma, after making Sister Jiang Yue's evening gown, you'll still have to make one for Second Sister-in-law. Will you be too tired? Why don't I make Sister Jiang Yue's gown for you?" Zhao Qian smiled at Matriarch Gu. Matriarch Gu looked at Zhao Qian with a smile and said, "I know you're concerned for me. I'm not planning to make an evening gown for Jiang Yue. This one is for Nian Nian." Zhao Qian's eyes widened in disbelief. She looked at the small diamonds scattered about not far away. These diamonds were all cut from a large diamond as big as one's palm. Puzzled, she asked, "Doesn't Sister Jiang Yue like diamonds the most?'"
"Yes, I know, but I made these for Nian Nian."
Zhao Qian recalled in shock that these small diamonds were originally one palm-sized diamond. Under the sunlight, it would reflect multicolored light, highlighting its lustrous beauty. It was truly a priceless treasure.
Back then, when Jiang Yue had seen this diamond, she had even specially expressed her liking for it. That was why Zhao Qian thought that Matriarch Gu was helping Jiang Yue make an evening gown. Jiang Yue would also be attending that lecture.
"Grandma, you're the best. Second Sister-in-law was especially touched just now!" Zhao Qian smiled, even as a trace of worry flashed in her eyes. If Jiang Yue knew about this, she might be unhappy.
Zhao Qian's words pleased Matriarch Gu, who was smiling
At this moment, in a cafe.
Jiang Yue took a leisurely sip of her coffee, then put her cup back onto the saucer. She smiled at the woman across from her. "I'm really looking forward to the speech."
"Goodness, is the diamond you're talking about really the size of a palm? Any diamond that large must look absolutely stunning. Gosh, your grandmother is so good to you. I've never seen such a beautiful diamond in my life. Are you really going to wear that diamond to the speech?" Liu Yu looked at Jiang Yue excitedly.
Jiang Yue gave an unruffled smile and said, "I believe that when you see it, you won't be able to resist its charm."
"Jiang Yue, your grandmother really dotes on you. She was willing to buy you such a large diamond, and is even personally designing a gown for you. Goodness, how is your grandmother so nice? I want such a high-quality gown too."
Jiang Yue smiled, not taking Liu Yu's words to heart.
She had long been used to it. Her grandmother had always treated her very well. All the evening gowns she had worn in the past had been specially made for her by her grandmother, so this was already a common occurrence for her.
"Actually, I don't want Grandma to make a gown for me anymore." Jiang Yue sighed softly and said with a pained expression, "Her health isn't good. She should rest more, but every time I try to persuade her, she won't listen. There's nothing I can do."
"Yue Yue, I'm sure Madam Gu knows of your filial piety. I'm still looking forward to that day. A gown made of expensive diamonds. It'll look amazing!"
Jiang Yue pursed her lips and smiled. She really hadn't expected Grandma to take out the diamond Jiang Yue had always liked, just in time for her graduation.
Jiang Yue had thought that Grandma might have forgotten about her because of Qiao Nian's arrival. Now, it seemed that she was Grandma's favorite granddaughter after all. Qiao Nian was just a granddaughter-in-law. Perhaps Grandma would chase Qiao Nian out
soon!
Prev ChapterNext ChapterReport chapterChapter 145 Broaden Her Horizons
"Yue Yue, I've suddenly remembered something. Is that woman still staying at your house?" Liu Yu asked, looking perplexed.
"She hasn't left." Jiang Yue pursed her lips. When she thought of Qiao Nian, the light in her eyes dimmed involuntarily. She continued, "She stayed behind to treat Grandma's illness."
Liu Yu was slightly stunned. Her eyes immediately filled with disdain. She spoke, "Treating Grandma? Yue Yue, are you joking? You're also a top student in the medical academy, and you're certified to be a doctor. You can treat your grandmother yourself, right? Why are you letting outsiders treat your grandmother?"
Jiang Yue smiled and said, "She's quite capable. Moreover, Grandma trusts her a lot."
Liu Yu frowned. When she spoke to persuade Jiang Yue, she sounded as though she had a lot of experience dealing with matters like these. "Yue Yue, I'm not trying to be a busybody. However, I think that since she's already moved into your house, you should be more careful. You have to know that many girls nowadays would go to great lengths to marry into a rich family, but if they want to truly be a part of an elite family, the first thing they have to do is to please the elderly matriarchs or patriarchs."
The smile on Jiang Yue's face froze for a moment. Then, she smiled again and said, "Actually, it's not as complicated as you think. Moreover, she will be attending this speech as well. Then, you'll be able to meet her."
Liu Yu looked at Jiang Yue with her face full of worry, saying helplessly, "Yue Yue, you're too kind. You don't have an ounce of vigilance. By the way, why is she attending our lecture? In what capacity will she be attending?"
Jiang Yue said hesitantly, "It might have been Grandma who wanted me to take her there. She said that it would broaden her horizons."
Hearing Jiang Yue's words, Liu Yu's eyes widened to the size of dinner plates. She quickly said, "Yue Yue, you're so naive. If someone kidnaps you and sells you, you'll be the one helping them count the money."
Jiang Yue smiled, shaking her head. "Surely it's not as serious as that?"
"Yue Yue, I'm telling you. If your grandmother said that, it means that she likes her very much. That's not a good thing."
Liu Yu said earnestly, "Do hurry up and tell me her name. I'll get my uncle to help you investigate her background. My uncle is a top-notch hacker. If you want to investigate someone, he'll be able to find information on every single one of their ancestors for you." Jiang Yue's hand, which was holding the cup, paused for a moment. She looked up. "That isn't appropriate!"
"I'll just check up on her for you. What's wrong with that? We're not doing anything to her," Liu Yu said. "Moreover, if we investigate thoroughly, we'll be able to confirm whether she's a threat to your grandmother. This is also for the sake of your grandmother's safety."
Jiang Yue lowered her gaze, thinking hard. After a long moment of hesitation, she said, "Qiao Nian."
When Liu Yu heard Jiang Yue's words, she hurriedly took out her phone and sent the name to her uncle. She left a message: [Uncle, help me investigate someone called Qiao Nian. The sooner, the better. See if you can get any dirt on her.]
After Liu Yu sent the message, she smiled at Jiang Yue and said, "Alright, this matter has been settled."
Jiang Yue gave a faint smile and lowered her gaze. Her long, sweeping eyelashes hid the coldness in her eyes.
"Yue Yue, I think it's better if you treat your grandmother's illness yourself. That way, she won't have anything to do with your family, and she can leave your house as soon as possible," Liu Yu reminded her kindly.
n as
Jiang Yue nodded with a smile. Actually, she had been studying Grandma's illness as well.
For the next few days, Jiang Yue spent all her time working on the script she would need for her speech. This would be the first time she ever stood on a stage to give a speech. The honor was immense, and it belonged to her. She would not allow herself to make any mistakes.
Matriarch Gu was no longer willing to leave the house either. There were many areas in the gown that required sewing by hand. Wearing a pair of reading glasses, she was sewing the gown together bit by bit.
Prev ChapterNext ChapterReport chapterChapter 146 Calm
Qiao Nian wasn't too concerned about the speech she would have to give in a few days. She spent most of her time in the garden with her plants. Occasionally, she would go to the research institute to teach Lin Tao how to cultivate plants and conduct experiments.
Qiao Nian stood at the side. Under her guidance, Lin Tao had already transplanted a potted plant. Lin Tao's face was now speckled with dirt.
After washing her face, Lin Tao smiled at Qiao Nian and asked curiously, "You have a speech tomorrow. Are you nervous?"
Qiao Nian jotted down some data in her notebook, then closed it and looked up at Lin Tao. "What's there to be nervous about? I'm just going to give them some tips on how to cultivate plants." Lin Tao looked at Qiao Nian like she was looking at a monster. "That's the Second Academy of Medicine you're talking about." "So what?" Qiao Nian looked at Lin Tao in confusion. "Will there be mutants present?"
"I'm afraid not," Lin Tao said. "But all the big shots in the medical field will be at the lecture. Aren't you nervous at all?".
"I'm not nervous." Qiao Nian glanced at the potted plant. "By the way, this plant doesn't quite like water. Don't water her for the rest of the week."
"Got it. I'll remember everything," Lin Tao said with a smile.
Qiao Nian carefully inspected the other plants. Seeing that there was nothing wrong with them, she said, "Alright, I'll head home first. If you need anything in the future, call me."
"Alright, take care."
When Qiao Nian left the research institute, she received a call as soon as she got into her car.
When she heard from the other end that someone was investigating her, a trace of confusion flashed across her face. "Who's investigating me?" Qiao Nian asked, frowning "Liu Hai."
Qiao Nian was slightly stunned. She had never heard this name before. "What does he do?"
"He's just a nobody in the hacker world. Do you want me to interfere?".
"Don't worry about it. Any information he'll be able to find is information I'm willing to let others know." Qiao Nian's eyes flashed. She continued, "Take note of who he's giving the information to."
After Qiao Nian hung up, she drove home.
Qiao Nian had just arrived home when the butler greeted her. "Second Young Madam, Matriarch Gu wants you to visit her study."
Qiao Nian nodded and walked directly to Matriarch Gu's study. She knocked on the door. "Grandma, it's me."
"Come in." Matriarch Gu's voice came from inside.
Qiao Nian pushed the door open and entered. She immediately saw the gown on the counter.
With just one look, Qiao Nian was stunned.
Matriarch Gu hurriedly pulled Qiao Nian over and urged her to put it on.
Holding the gown, Qiao Nian walked into the fitting room. She stepped out wearing the gown. This gown showed off every inch of Qiao Nian's lovely figure, and even set off her unique aura. Elegant, refined, exquisite, and luxurious.
The gown exuded an air of wild sultriness, yet retained a sense of cold refinement. It was incredibly alluring…
What surprised her the most was that the diamonds sewn into the gown did not look tacky at all. It was as though she was wearing the resplendent night sky.
At this moment, Qiao Nian's heart skipped a beat. This gown was truly beautiful.
It was indeed a gown designed by a designer well-known all over the world. Matriarch Gu looked at Qiao Nian in the gown, her eyes filled with satisfaction. She couldn't help but smile. She had designed many clothes in her lifetime, and all kinds of models had worn her clothes, but none of them had been able to express her designs perfectly.
However, after Qiao Nian put on the gown, she expressed the beauty of the gown exactly how Matriarch Gu wanted. Not only that, but this gown also set off her aura.
Oh, wow.
Her grandson was truly blessed!
To be able to marry such a drop-dead gorgeous beauty like Qiao Nian.
Qiao Nian looked at herself in the fitting mirror. She had to admit that this was the most beautiful and comfortable gown she had ever worn. Even though she had yet to style her hair or do her make-up, the person in the mirror already looked very beautiful.
Prev ChapterNext ChapterReport chapter147 The Gown
"Grandma…"
Before Qiao Nian could finish her sentence, Matriarch Gu stepped out of the room.
Just as Qiao Nian was about to chase after her, she heard Matriarch Gu say loudly, "Nian Nian, don't change out of the gown yet. Wait for
me."
Qiao Nian couldn't help but smile. In reality, Matriarch Gu was just like a child. Sometimes, she was especially adorable, as if age didn't matter to her at all. In just three minutes, Matriarch Gu ran in holding a DSLR. Her face was slightly flushed from the exercise.
"Nian Nian, stand beside the wardrobe and pose. A casual one will do. I'll take a photo for you." As Matriarch Gu spoke, she hurriedly switched on the camera in her hand.
Seeing how happy Matriarch Gu was, Qiao Nian didn't want to sour her mood. Obediently, she began to pose.
Matriarch Gu's eyes lit up. Holding the camera, she began taking photographs of Qiao Nian from all angles. No matter the angle from which the photograph was taken, Qiao Nian was still beautiful.
If it weren't for the fact that Gu Zhou and Qiao Nian had yet to officially announce their marriage to the public, Matriarch Gu would have used this photograph to publicize their marriage everywhere she went. Then, she would have told the entire world that her granddaughter-in-law was the beautiful fairy-like maiden in the photograph.
Matriarch Gu couldn't help but smile. After taking the photographs, she said to Qiao Nian, "Change out of the gown first. I'll iron it tomorrow, then get someone to send it to the banquet."
Qiao Nian smiled and nodded. "Okay."
After Qiao Nian entered the changing room, the smile on her face gradually faded.
If she were to appear at the lecture wearing this gown, it wouldn't be long before the entire world knew about it. Perhaps, it would even be named as the world's best-designed evening gown.
That was enough to prove Matriarch Gu's talent in fashion design. Moreover, the fact that Matriarch Gu was giving her this gown to wear to the lecture also meant that Matriarch Gu really liked her, and doted on her greatly.
If Matriarch Gu knew that she was leaving the Gu family soon, then Matriarch Gu…
Qiao Nian didn't dare to think further.
The only thing she could do now was treat Matriarch Gu's heart disease.
At noon the next day, the speech ceremony of the Second Academy of Medicine officially began.
Apart from prominent professors and outstanding students from the Second Academy of Medicine, there were also professionals from various large research institutes, including the medical research institute, present at the ceremony. Not only that, but there were also some famous doctors from private hospitals.
This was because after graduating from the Second Academy of Medicine, alumni would not only work in national hospitals, but also in private hospitals. This ceremony provided an opportunity for current students to interact with the big shots in the medical field as well. Of course, some of the guests were also investors belonging to high society. Qiao Nian stepped in and saw that everyone inside was chatting and laughing. Gazing over, she saw Gu Zhou in the crowd. Gu Zhou was walking in, wearing a well-tailored suit. His phoenix-like eyes swept around, and he inadvertently met her gaze. The two of them looked at each other across the sea of people.
Gu Zhou gave off a cold and unapproachable aura, as if he was an otherworldly spirit belonging to another dimension.
Qiao Nian hadn't expected Gu Zhou to be here today as well.
However, she recalled that Gu Zhou had reached an agreement with Director Lin regarding the research institute. It was only natural that he would come today.
Suddenly, a scream came from afar.
"Oh my god, that man is so handsome!"
"He looks like a male god!" "He's practically a walking sack of hormones!" "Oh my god, I want to give birth to his child now."
The elite in An City all knew one another. The investors among the crowd looked at Gu Zhou in confusion.
"Second Young Master Gu has been coming out of his house quite often lately."
"I think so. Has he recovered?"
"I heard that his illness is incurable. He must have stayed at home for too long. He doesn't want to live the rest of his life in a lifeless state, so that must be why he often comes out to experience the world."
When Qiao Nian heard these words, her brow furrowed imperceptibly.
Prev ChapterNext ChapterReport chapterChapter 148 He's Here
Although she knew that these people bore no ill intentions, she still felt a little uncomfortable listening to them speak.
An outstanding man like Gu Zhou should not have his life cut short, nor should he be the target of dinnertime gossip.
When she got home tonight, she would definitely think of a way to treat Gu Zhou's illness.
"Nian Nian." Lin Tao finally saw Qiao Nian. She picked up her skirts and ran towards her.
Lin Tao saw that Qiao Nian was dressed very casually today. If one didn't take a careful look, one would think that she was a member of the service staff here.
Lin Tao said disapprovingly, "Why aren't you wearing an evening gown? That'll be rude."
Qiao Nian smiled and explained, "My gown is on the way here. I'll change into it when we get there."
Most people would choose to change into their evening gowns when the banquet started. As it was still early, no one would notice her either.
At this moment, there was a sudden commotion in the crowd.
Qiao Nian and Lin Tao looked in the direction that everyone was looking.
When Qiao Nian saw the newcomer's face, she couldn't help but frown. Her breathing quickened.
Certain memories she didn't want to recall appeared in her mind's eye all of a sudden.
Qiao Nian took a deep breath, trying hard to calm her breathing. Whenever she saw him, she would feel uncomfortable.
Qiao Yu. Why had he returned? Surprisingly, she hadn't heard anything to do with his arrival.
Qiao Xin, who was wearing a pink gown, walked in with Qiao Yu.
Qiao Xin stood beside Qiao Yu and took his arm. She raised her chin proudly, as though she had recovered the dignity she had lost previously.
Lin Tao was slightly stunned. She turned to look at Qiao Nian. "Nian Nian, your brother is here!"
Qiao Yu looked the same as before. He was wearing a well-tailored suit, gold-rimmed glasses, and had his hair combed back. He seemed like an exceptionally rigid person, even dull, but his eyes were filled with ruthlessness.
Qiao Yu had a gentle and refined smile on his face. From afar, he looked like a polite gentleman.
But Qiao Nian knew that this man was definitely not as simple as he seemed.
If she hadn't seen Qiao Yu again, she would have practically forgotten about him.
Gu Zhou sensed that something was wrong with Qiao Nian's expression as she looked at Qiao Yu. His eyes darkened slightly.
Qiao Yu, who had just entered, also glimpsed Qiao Nian. He walked towards her and stopped in front of her, looking down at her with contempt.
"You've grown up."
Qiao Yu's voice was cold. He looked at Qiao Nian if he were looking at a stray dog.
Qiao Nian hated it when Qiao Yu acted like this. He was so high and mighty, and treated her as if she were less than human. She still remembered how Qiao Yu had looked at her like this when she was five.
Qiao Xin had a smug smile on her face. She could naturally sense Qiao Nian's shock and dazedness upon coming face to face with Qiao Yu. She could also sense the strong aura Qiao Yu was exuding
At this moment, Qiao Xin's vanity had gone off the charts.
Qiao Xin felt that Qiao Nian was just Qiao Nian —a cheap woman who belonged to the lower class. She would never be a presentable lady. Qiao Nian wasn't even wearing an evening gown today. She looked just like a waiter.
How humiliating! With a cold smile on her face, Qiao Xin asked, "Sister, Brother is back. Do you want to go home for dinner tonight?"
Qiao Yu stared unblinkingly at Qiao Nian. His expression seemed to be forcing Qiao Nian to agree. "I'm just staying for a few days…"
"She doesn't have time." A low, hoarse voice interrupted Qiao Yu. That voice was calm, and the powerful aura in his words stunned everyone present.
For some reason, Qiao Nian's heart skipped a beat. She turned to look at Gu Zhou, who was standing behind her.
All her attention was on Qiao Yu just now, and she didn't notice that Gu Zhou had already arrived.
When Qiao Yu faced Gu Zhou, he showed no signs of backing down. Indeed, he did not seem frightened at all. Instead, he asked, "Mr. Gu, what right do you have to restrict her freedom?"
Prev ChapterNext ChapterReport chapterChapter 149 Paternity Test
Gu Zhou's lips curved up slightly. He was in an excellent mood, but when he spoke, his words dripped with sarcasm. "What right? Qiao Yu, you think too highly of yourself."
With that, Gu Zhou walked over to Qiao Yu and whispered something into his ear.
No one knew what Gu Zhou had said, but everyone saw Qiao Yu's face turn pale in an instant. His brow furrowed deeply.
Qiao Nian was slightly stunned when she saw Qiao Yu's expression change. This was the first time she had seen someone who could make Qiao Yu turn pale. Qiao Xin was sensitive enough to sense that something was off with the atmosphere. Worried that Gu Zhou and Qiao Yu would start fighting, she tried to change the subject. Qiao Xin's eyes darted to the cake not far away. After a beat, she looked at Qiao Yu, speaking in the manner of a spoiled child. "Brother, I feel like eating cake. Will you go with me now?"
Qiao Yu gave Qiao Nian a meaningful look, then patted Qiao Xin's head dotingly. "Okay."
With that, Qiao Yu left with Qiao Xin.
Qiao Nian had always known that Qiao Yu loved spoiling his younger sister, and would accede to her any request. It was just that Qiao Yu didn't like Qiao Nian one bit.
Gu Zhou walked over to Qiao Nian and his gaze fell on her face. "Where's your gown?"
"It'll be here in a while." Qiao Nian looked at Gu Zhou curiously and asked in confusion, "What did you say to him just now?"
"It doesn't matter." Gu Zhou didn't want to let Qiao Nian know what he had said.
Qiao Nian didn't ask further. She turned back to look at Qiao Yu's retreating back, her breathing a little uneven.
"Qiao Nian." Gu Zhou called her by her full name, his voice low and hoarse.
"Yes?" Qiao Nian turned back to look at Gu Zhou, her eyes filled with confusion.
Gu Zhou reached out and patted Qiao Nian's head. In a calm voice, he said, "If you don't want to hold back, don't. You don't have to tolerate this. If you face any trouble, I'll help
you."
Qiao Nian looked at Gu Zhou in surprise, momentarily forgetting to speak. She had wanted revenge for a long time. She believed that Gu Zhou had always known about this.
But she had never expected Gu Zhou to be willing to help her.
Qiao Nian's heart gave a violent jerk. After a long while, she said, "You…"
However, the rest of the sentence got lodged in her throat. Qiao Nian didn't know what to say.
Out of habit, Gu Zhou straightened his tie and said unhurriedly, "The results of the paternity test are out."
Qiao Nian looked at Gu Zhou in confusion. She had kept this matter a well-guarded secret. How did Gu Zhou know?
Without waiting for Qiao Nian to speak, Gu Zhou continued, "I'm in charge of operations at the paternity test center."
Qiao Nian: …
Qiao Nian froze for a moment, then frowned. Gu Zhou looked at Qiao Nian intently, taking in all of her emotions. Instead of announcing the results immediately, he waited for her to speak.
"What were the results?" After hesitating for a moment, Qiao Nian decided to ask.
"Congratulations, your intuition was very accurate. You're not Qiao Shan's biological daughter." Gu Zhou's voice turned cold.
Hearing Gu Zhou's words, Qiao Nian couldn't help but smile.
The taut string in Qiao Nian's heart finally slackened. All the tension drained from her shoulders.
She hated those people from the Qiao family, and hated herself for having anything to do with the Qiao family. It made her feel dirty to the extreme.
Su Xue was having an affair. Qiao Nian knew in her heart that this was definitely not the first time Su Xue had an affair. Someone who had cheated before would definitely cheat again. How could someone as dirty as Su Xue be her relative?
Back when she was living with the elderly grandfather who had taken her in, Qiao Nian had thought that she was an orphan. Although they had been poor, she lived a happy life in the countryside!
But after that, she was brought to the Qiao family. For no reason, she gained a brother and sister, and for no reason, she suffered unfair treatment.
Everyone told her to take good care of her younger sister, Qiao Xin.
They also wanted her to listen to her older brother, even if her brother did those things to her.
Their family was worse than a pack of beasts. What right did they have to treat someone else's daughter like she was less than human?
Prev ChapterNext ChapterReport chapterChapter 150 The First Lecturer
Qiao Nian was extremely glad that she had nothing to do with the Qiao family.
Fortunately, she now knew the truth.
Gu Zhou called out to her.
Qiao Nian smiled brightly at Gu Zhou. Her red lips parted slightly as she spoke. "You're right. I shouldn't have to tolerate this anymore. I should get back at them for what they did to me, and charge interest for it as well."
Gu Zhou looked at her. There was a strange light in her eyes, and she looked much brighter and happier. The lights cast her in a golden glow, making her look so beautiful that one could not take their eyes off her.
Gu Zhou was momentarily dazed.
At this moment, the host of the banquet began to announce the order of guest speakers at the ceremony.
When everyone heard Qiao Nian's name announced first, they were all extremely displeased.
"Who's Qiao Nian? Why haven't I heard of her name? What right does she have to go on stage to give a speech?"
"Where did this country bumpkin come from? Why haven't I heard of her?"
"I've never heard of her either. She must have gotten in through the back door. Can any Tom, Dick, or Harry become a lecturer these days?"
"I want to see the eldest daughter of the Gu family giving her speech!"
"I'm here because of Miss Jiang Yue. I heard that she's the first lecturer."
"She initially took the first spot, but the order was changed afterwards."
Because Qiao Nian had taken over Jiang Yue's role as the first to go on stage, everyone present felt indignant for Jiang Yue.
When Gu Zhou heard their words, he couldn't help but frown. Lin Tao walked around the venue. Listening to the words of those people, she was so angry that her little face turned red with rage. She complained unhappily, "Those people really know nothing. They're so snobbish. All of them are blind fools."
After complaining, Lin Tao reached out and took Qiao Nian's hand, comforting her gently, "Nian Nian, don't stoop to their level. They're just too stupid."
When Qiao Nian heard Lin Tao's words, she couldn't help but smile. She shook her head lightly.
At this moment, there was a commotion at the door.
Qiao Nian and Lin Tao looked over.
They saw Jiang Yue walking into the room in high heels. Her chin was raised proudly, her eyes glittering. She strode into the room elegantly. Lin Tao sized up Jiang Yue, frowning slightly. She couldn't help but say, "Nian Nian, who is this? Does she think she's a celebrity? Does she think that she's going to walk the red carpet?" When Qiao Nian heard Lin Tao's words, she couldn't help but laugh. She explained, "That's Jiang Yue."
"What? She's Jiang Yue? She's so snobbish!" As Lin Tao spoke, she couldn't help but glance at Jiang Yue again, inhaling sharply. "Are those people blind? How dare they claim that she's a beauty, and a top student too? Perhaps if she's a top student in the animal kingdom, I can accept that. After all, she's just like a peacock."
Lin Tao's gaze fell on Gu Zhou's face. Puzzled, she asked, "Isn't she your younger sister? Why didn't she come with you?"
"She's not," Gu Zhou said indifferently, not even sparing Lin Tao a glance.
Qiao Nian realized that Gu Zhou didn't seem to like Jiang Yue.
Lin Tao didn't sense Gu Zhou's displeasure at all. She went straight to the point. "Didn't they all say that she's the oldest daughter of the Gu family?"
"She's just my grandmother's adopted granddaughter. She has nothing to do with the Gu family." Gu Zhou's brow furrowed deeper and deeper. He seemed to be extremely displeased that others had labeled Jiang Yue as a member of the Gu family. It was as though he was trying his best to distance himself from Jiang Yue.
Only then did Qiao Nian realize that outsiders all thought that Jiang Yue was the precious daughter of the Gu family.
Jiang Yue's gaze fell on Gu Zhou's face, and the smile in her eyes grew more pronounced. But when her gaze fell on Qiao Nian, who was standing beside Gu Zhou, something flashed in her eyes, then disappeared.
Jiang Yue had been notified yesterday that she was no longer the first to speak. Later on, she heard from others that Qiao Nian had replaced her as the first speaker.
Jiang Yue had never expected Qiao Nian to replace her as the first speaker. She was such a dubious character.
She had been trying hard to calm herself down, but Qiao Nian's appearance next to Gu Zhou had ruined her composure.
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