Chapter 70: Something's Happened—Call the Police at Once!

Zheng Xuancheng clutched the money tightly. He didn't know who the woman just now was, but given his current predicament, that was no longer important. The enemy of my enemy is my friend—since this woman was willing to pay, it meant she hated Wen Zhixia to the bone.

"Secretary Li, what a coincidence." Chen Antai had come to the area nearby to visit an old friend. When he saw Li Yueting there, he was a bit surprised—after all, it was still working hours.

Li Yueting’s hand paused as she opened the car door, then she removed her sunglasses and turned her head. "Oh, Manager Chen. What brings you here?"

"I was meeting an old friend nearby, took a half-day off," Chen Antai replied.

Li Yueting hesitated a moment, holding her sunglasses. "I see. That is a coincidence. I’ve caught a bit of a cold and happened to be passing by, so I stopped to buy some medicine."

She pointed toward a pharmacy not far away, but her gaze remained fixed on Chen Antai, as if trying to determine when he had spotted her—whether it was just now by chance or if he had been following her.

Chen Antai nodded. "Secretary Li, you’re a diligent worker, but you still need to take care of your health."

His expression remained unchanged, which put Li Yueting at ease—it seemed she had imagined things.

"You’re right, Manager Chen. I have something to take care of, so I’ll be going now." Chen Antai waved goodbye as she left.

After Li Yueting left, Chen Antai got into his own car. As he turned the car around, he glanced at the rearview mirror and noticed, almost involuntarily, that this pharmacy wasn’t the closest one to the company.

He checked the time, recalled that Gu Pingsheng was still in the hospital, and, since he still had time, decided to pay him a visit.

After a few words of greeting at the hospital, an unexpected visitor arrived. When the visitor announced his name, Chen Antai couldn’t help but take a closer look, because the man was none other than—Wen Lechuan.

"Since you have things to attend to, President Gu, I’ll head back to the office now," Chen Antai said, gathering up his things. Sensing that the two had business to discuss, he took the initiative to leave.

Gu Pingsheng nodded calmly. After Chen Antai left, he glanced at Wen Lechuan. "Sit."

But Wen Lechuan did not sit. Instead, he produced a favorable contract. "This is a gesture of apology from the Chu family. Chairman Chu asked me to convey his sincere apologies for your injuries this time. If you agree to drop the matter, the Chu family is willing to offer this compensation."

Gu Pingsheng wasn’t surprised by this outcome. Once the police discovered that the culprit’s car belonged to a close relative of the Chu family, he had anticipated this result. The police wouldn’t offend either side. Since it was a private matter, they sought a private resolution.

Chairman Chu had evidently investigated the relationship between Wen Lechuan and Gu Pingsheng before sending Wen to smooth things over—a gesture that was also something of a test.

Gu Pingsheng glanced through the contract. "Chairman Chu is certainly generous."

"As long as you are willing to let bygones be bygones, Chairman Chu will remember your kindness," Wen Lechuan said, every word precise.

Gu Pingsheng lifted his eyes, taking in the changes in Wen Lechuan over just a few months. "You’ve changed a lot. Since you’re back, have you visited your sister?"

Wen Lechuan paused, and at the mention of Wen Zhixia, his eyes softened unconsciously. "Not yet."

Compared to his parents, Wen Lechuan felt a deeper bond with the sister who had cared for him since childhood and shaped his worldview. Even though his parents gave him all their affection and attention, that was never what Wen Lechuan truly wanted. If it hadn’t been for Wen Zhixia’s patient corrections during his childhood—when he unconsciously mimicked his parents’ flaws—he might have long since taken a wrong path.

Gu Pingsheng closed the contract. "Go see your sister."

Wen Lechuan hesitated. "About the accident—"

"I accept," Gu Pingsheng said.

Wen Lechuan paused, surprised by how easily it was settled.

"This has nothing to do with you. Businessmen value profit. Since Chairman Chu is willing to pay such a price for peace, I won’t embarrass him," Gu Pingsheng said.

Wen Lechuan nodded. "I thank you on his behalf."

Gu Pingsheng rubbed the corner of the contract between his fingers. "If Chairman Chu can trust you to handle this alone, you must be doing well in the Chu family."

"My affairs are of no concern to you," Wen replied curtly. With business concluded, he was unwilling to discuss personal matters. After a short pause, he added, "I’ll go see my sister."

"Go on," Gu Pingsheng said, unconcerned about his attitude, raising a hand in dismissal.

Lanhujun.

When Wen Zhixia saw Wen Lechuan at her door, delight flashed across her face. "When did you get back?"

Wen Lechuan gave her a hug. "Just today. I had some things to take care of."

Wen Zhixia poured him a glass of water and, as she sat down, looked him over. "You’ve matured a lot."

Wen Lechuan scratched the back of his head and smiled. "Have I?"

Wen Zhixia nodded. "Is work tiring?"

"…It’s manageable." He hesitated. "You seem to have lost some weight, sis."

Wen Zhixia touched her cheek. "My appetite’s been off lately. Have I lost a lot?"

"You look better with a little more weight," Wen Lechuan said.

Wen Zhixia laughed lightly. "Stay for lunch. I’ll cook."

"Sure. What about my brother-in-law?"

At the mention of Gu Pingsheng, Wen Zhixia’s smile faded. "Don’t worry about him. If there’s one thing President Gu isn’t lacking, it’s people to take care of him."

Wen Lechuan was no longer a naïve child. Hearing this, he frowned. "Did you two have a fight? Is he treating you badly?"

Wen Zhixia unconsciously touched her abdomen. "He’s always been generous—how could I say he treats me badly?"

When it came to money, there were never any restrictions. Each season, jewelry and clothing from the group’s brands would be delivered to their home. No matter the occasion or who was present, he always protected her. In front of others, President Gu was lofty and imposing, but with her, he never put on airs, sweet-talking and coaxing her.

Wen Zhixia felt that such a husband was probably every woman’s dream. When she acted out, it seemed unreasonable, but to her, no matter how many outward trappings there were, if the feelings weren’t pure, no amount of embellishment could bring true happiness.

"Are you… expecting?" Wen Lechuan paused, noticing her gesture.

Wen Zhixia nodded.

"Have you been to the hospital? How far along are you?" he asked.

"I have an appointment in three days."

The prospect of becoming an uncle brought Wen Lechuan joy, and since she didn’t want to talk about Gu Pingsheng, he didn’t press further. Their conversation turned to the child.

When he went to the restroom, his phone started ringing on the table. Wen Zhixia picked it up, intending to call for him, but paused when she saw the name on the screen: "Creditor."

She frowned, instinctively thinking Wen Lechuan had gotten himself into trouble. Glancing toward the bathroom, she answered the call.

"Wen Lechuan, are you planning to run off?" Chu Man asked, painting her toenails.

"How much does he owe you?" Wen Zhixia asked sternly.

Chu Man paused, checked the phone display. "Who are you?"

"I’m his sister."

Chu Man gave an indifferent "oh." "Where’s Wen Lechuan?"

"If there’s something you need, you can talk to me," Wen Zhixia replied.

Chu Man chuckled lazily, brushing back her hair, her tone suggestive. "Little Wen, I don’t think it’s appropriate to discuss what’s between me and your brother with you."

"…Are you Chu Man?" Wen Zhixia thought the voice sounded familiar, recalling a previous call she had accidentally answered.

"That’s me. But since you’re his sister, I suppose there’s no harm in saying it—I slept with your brother. Now he’s left without a word. Is he dissatisfied with my skills?"

Wen Zhixia never expected to hear such wild words when answering her brother’s "creditor’s" call. She’d known for years that Miss Chu was bold and unrestrained, but to hear her openly discuss sleeping with her brother was still shocking.

"But really, little Wen, I can’t take all the blame. I had too much to drink… Your brother is quite a treat for the eyes. I just made the same mistake any woman might. You understand, right?"

If Wen Lechuan were her younger sister instead of her brother, and a man had said such things, Wen Zhixia would be furious. But since it was her brother and a glamorous socialite, she was at a loss for words.

In her mind, women usually got the short end of such encounters, but by Chu Man’s tone, she didn’t feel wronged at all. On the contrary, she was calling to ask whether Wen Lechuan had run off because he was dissatisfied with her technique…

"Are you two together now?" Wen Zhixia asked.

Chu Man laughed. "We just slept together once. Isn’t it an exaggeration to call that a relationship? Does your brother want me to take responsibility?"

This was the first time Wen Zhixia had met someone whose words left her speechless.

After a moment, she said, "Lechuan is careful with his feelings. If you don’t mean anything by it, you shouldn’t lead him on."

Chu Man admired her freshly painted toenails, satisfied. "Maybe I’ve helped him break his vows—maybe he’ll become addicted to my skills. How could I resist? Don’t be too hard on me, little Wen."

Wen Zhixia was about to respond when Wen Lechuan returned. Seeing her holding his phone, his eyes flickered.

"Lechuan’s here. You two can talk," Wen Zhixia said.

Wen Lechuan glanced at the caller ID but didn’t ask why she’d answered—upon seeing the contact name, he’d already guessed. "What do you want?"

"Nothing. Just wanted to see if you’d left my bed already, and check in on your feelings. Next time, I’ll be more considerate so you’re not uncomfortable," Chu Man replied.

Wen Lechuan frowned so hard he could have crushed a fly. "Chu Man, do you have any shame?"

He glanced at Wen Zhixia, then walked to the window to continue the call. Wen Zhixia, meanwhile, went to the kitchen to prepare lunch for the two of them.

Chu Man laughed. "Going to scold me? Wasn’t it you begging me not to stop? Your mouth is tough, but your body’s honest. Once or twice is fun, but if you act precious too often, it’s boring. Lame. I’m hanging up."

Wen Lechuan took a deep breath or two, barely managing to suppress his anger. In his life, he’d never met a woman as brazen as Chu Man.

During lunch, Wen Zhixia looked at Wen Lechuan several times, as if hesitating to speak.

After a pause, Wen Lechuan said, "…We’re not together."

Seeing that he was willing to talk, Wen Zhixia finally asked, "What happened between you two?"

"What could have happened? A woman like her has men everywhere. She’s not sincere with anyone—just wants to try something new. I don’t lose out either way," Wen Lechuan said, his tone low.

As the siblings talked, Gu Pingsheng called Wen Zhixia twice, but she didn’t answer either time. When the nurse came to change his dressing, his face was dark with displeasure.

Ye Lanzhou laughed softly. "If she wanted to answer, she would have. The siblings are reunited. Who knows how much they have to say? Maybe they’ve forgotten about you entirely… Fine, I’ll stop."

Gu Pingsheng’s face remained stern.

"Senior—" Wen Zhixia didn’t show up, but Zhao Fuhe never missed a morning or afternoon visit. No matter what Gu Pingsheng said, nothing could dampen her enthusiasm—her resilience and boundless energy made her as tenacious as a cockroach.

Ye Lanzhou, observing this, couldn’t help but marvel at the strength of this woman’s psyche. But she was not unique—among their circle, countless women pulled out every trick to rise in status, to turn from sparrow to phoenix. Pride meant nothing if, in the end, they succeeded. The process was ugly, but as long as the result was there, no one cared—especially since they weren’t public figures. At most, rumors would circulate within a small circle; outside that, they could still be seen as noble, wealthy ladies.

"This is a special nutritious meal I learned to make just for you, very good for your recovery. Let me—"

"I’ve already eaten," Gu Pingsheng cut her off, then caught sight of Li Yueting entering with documents. "Secretary Li, please send her home."

Li Yueting walked in, glanced at Zhao Fuhe, and replied, "Yes, President Gu." She set the files on the table, quickly sorting and summarizing them. Her efficiency and intellect made a stark contrast to Zhao Fuhe.

"Miss Zhao, President Gu has company matters to attend to. I’ll drive you home. This way, please," Li Yueting said, gesturing politely.

Zhao Fuhe looked at Gu Pingsheng, then at Li Yueting, pursed her lips, and said, "Then rest well, Senior. I won’t disturb your work."

Zhao Fuhe walked ahead, but glanced back at Li Yueting several times. Yet even walking behind, Li Yueting seemed to be leading the way.

Once outside, in a quiet spot, Zhao Fuhe asked, "What was that look you gave me just now?"

"Miss Zhao, let me be clear—no man is interested in a woman who clings desperately. Have you ever wondered why Wen Zhixia’s position remains unshaken after so many years? Has she ever thrown herself at President Gu? She always maintains her dignity—she keeps him wanting," Li Yueting said.

"She’s his wife. Of course she can play hard to get. If I’m not proactive, what chance do I have? Look at you—after all these years you’re still just a secretary," Zhao Fuhe said meaningfully.

Anyone with ambition isn’t a fool. At first, Zhao Fuhe might have believed Li Yueting’s claims that she only wanted promotion, but over time, that excuse didn’t hold up. A young, pretty, unmarried secretary with no boyfriend, who supposedly only focused on career advancement? If she were really single-minded about self-improvement, maybe, but since Li Yueting was involved in Gu Pingsheng’s personal life, her motives couldn’t be so pure. In truth, they were simply using each other, united only in their efforts against the formidable Wen Zhixia. Eventually, someone would come out on top.

Zhao Fuhe’s words made Li Yueting glance at her, smiling. "Whatever do you mean, Miss Zhao? As a secretary, I still have a bright future—and will rely on you someday."

Zhao Fuhe replied with a meaningful look. "I hope you remember this—when I set my sights on something, I never let go. Especially… I believe, even if I can’t compare to Senior Wen in his heart, I can certainly outrank a mere secretary like you—after all, I’m his woman. And you, after all these years, have only ever been his subordinate."

Secretary Li maintained her smile, as if she hadn’t heard the veiled mockery. "Take care on your way, Miss Zhao."

After Zhao Fuhe had delivered her warning and left without a backward glance, Li Yueting’s smile vanished, her gaze turning cold. "Fool," she muttered. Did a mere hostess think she could compete with her? If every pheasant could become a phoenix, would her own turn not have come by now?

In the hospital room, Gu Pingsheng received a call from Wen Lechuan, who was about to leave Sifang City.

"…My sister is pregnant," Wen said as soon as the call connected. "But I can tell she’s not happy."

No matter how well someone pretends, their eyes never lie. Even though they’d just chatted and had a home-cooked meal, Wen Lechuan could see that the light in Wen Zhixia’s eyes had dimmed.

Gu Pingsheng paused at these words. "Did she say anything to you?"

"She said you treat her well," Wen Lechuan replied.

Gu Pingsheng was silent for a long time. Just as Wen was about to speak again, he finally said, "Be careful on your way home."

"Brother-in-law," Wen said—not "President Gu," but "brother-in-law." "Treat my sister well. No matter how many young, beautiful, gentle women there are in the world, none can compare to her. If you lose her, you’ll regret it for a lifetime."

It wasn’t that Wen Lechuan was obsessed with his sister—he’d simply never met a woman as outstanding and wonderful as her. It was hard to imagine that someone could be so flawless, so pure, that even in the foulest, most depraved environment, she could bloom like a flower.

Gu Pingsheng’s voice was deep. "I won’t."

After Wen Lechuan left, Lanhujun returned to its usual tranquility. Having seen her brother, Wen Zhixia’s appetite was better that night. Feeling she’d eaten too much, she decided to go for a walk.

The greenery around Lanhujun was excellent, and the air was fresh. Wen Zhixia walked slowly, her fingers unconsciously touching her abdomen—still flat, but already nurturing a new life. The sensation was utterly novel to her.

"Wen Zhixia—"

Unaware that she had wandered a little too far, she suddenly heard a strange man’s voice calling her name from an unknown direction.

She turned to see a man she didn’t recognize staring intently at her. Alert, she took a step back and quickly surveyed her surroundings, calculating how she might protect herself if he meant harm.

But she forgot that, in the face of overwhelming force, all wit and intelligence are useless.

As she tried to escape, two men suddenly rushed out from behind and pressed a cloth over her mouth and nose. Wen Zhixia struggled and held her breath, but no matter how quick her reflexes, in the chaos she inhaled twice.

Her attackers were clearly prepared. Even as they dragged her to a car, the drugged cloth remained over her face. One man bound her, and when she finally ran out of breath, she lost consciousness.

The man who had first caught her attention now got in as well. The three of them stuffed her into a sack and, brazenly, drove out right under the eyes of security.

"That car…" One guard, noticing it wasn’t a familiar vehicle, watched it closely.

"I think it’s a friend of one of the residents—it’s already been registered," a new recruit answered.

But the first guard couldn’t shake a sense of unease. Everyone who lived here was rich or powerful; if anything happened, they’d all be in serious trouble. He immediately checked the registry and called the monitoring room.

It might have been nothing, but the monitoring staff had also noticed something odd and were simultaneously trying to call the gatehouse. The lines were busy for a moment.

When they finally got through after two attempts, the experienced guard’s face changed drastically. "Something’s wrong—call the police!" He glared at the new recruit. "You’ve made a big mistake!"

He’d only gone to the restroom for a moment, and something like this had happened. If it was really a kidnapping, no one would escape responsibility.