this chapter is brought to you by mio
as translator, proofreader and editor!
“Where did you hear this from?” Xu Qingli was a bit stunned and couldn’t help but ask, “Is it reliable?”
“It should be reliable.” Even though the car was filled with their own people and the soundproof partition had been raised from the start, Shui Miao still instinctively lowered her voice. “You should know too, right? That the Wen Group has never placed much importance on the film and entertainment sector.”
Xu Qingli nodded—this had long been an open secret. Recently, Wen Qiaozhou seemed to be paying more attention to the entertainment industry, sparking speculation. She knew she had heard plenty of rumors while attending events.
“But the Wen Group started in the clothing industry, and even now, clothing, jewelry, and accessories still make up a significant portion of their business. The entertainment industry is closely related to these sectors, that’s why the Wen Group also established its own film and talent agencies. Yet they don’t prioritize them—don’t you think that’s a little contradictory?” Shui Miao didn’t rush to answer but instead posed a question.
“It is rather strange.” Xu Qingli nodded. The novel had mentioned this too, but no definitive answer had ever been given. “I heard it’s because Chairwoman Zhu doesn’t like the entertainment industry.”
Shui Miao said, “But the film and talent agencies were both personally established by Chairwoman Zhu.”
“Really?” Xu Qingli genuinely didn’t know this. When she was preparing for the promotional shoot, this detail hadn’t been included despite the company giving her the detailed background information.
Seeing her shocked expression, Shui Miao felt a sense of accomplishment. “It’s true. That’s why the film and entertainment division has managed to survive to this day, and also why we’re here now. If she hadn’t personally founded them, they would’ve already been dissolved long ago. It’s not as simple as just neglecting us.”
“But why?” Xu Qingli was itching with curiosity. “Sister Miaomiao, just tell me directly.”
“Because the first artist she signed after personally establishing the film and talent agency became…” Shui Miao leaned in close to Xu Qingli’s ear, whispering almost inaudibly, “the mistress between her and the former chairman. Well, more accurately, she might’ve been the fifth or sixth mistress. Anyway… you get the idea.”
Xu Qingli understood what she meant.
The former chairman of the Wen Group was Wen Qiaozhou’s grandfather.
Based on what she’d read in the novel and learned in reality, Wen Qiaozhou’s grandfather was quite the womanizer, with many lovers and several illegitimate children. Rumour had it that Zhu Zhenshan had married him to form an alliance between the two families, with no real affection between them, so she didn’t care. Others claimed they had always led separate lives.
But later, Zhu Zhenshan suddenly became the chairwoman, and shortly after, Wen Qiaozhou’s grandfather passed away unexpectedly. Some said they had a falling out, while others even accused Zhu Zhenshan of murdering her husband. Yet Zhu Zhenshan recognized all of Grandfather Wen’s illegitimate children and treated them well. The large family even got along quite harmoniously, which didn’t seem like the aftermath of a bitter split.
In any case, opinions were divided, making it one of the Wen family’s greatest mysteries.
Given this context, it seemed odd that Zhu Zhenshan would be so furious over a minor artist that she’d abandon a company she personally established. Just what kind of magic did this last mistress possess?
“Was this artist special in some way?” Xu Qingli couldn’t help but ask.
“No, she was just a minor artist—reportedly with no notable background.” Shui Miao shook her head. “Now, you can’t even find any of her works.”
“Then why?” Xu Qingli was puzzled.
“The real reason is only known to the Wen family; us outsiders can only speculate. Whatever the reason, it’s obvious she must have angered Chairwoman Zhu.” Considering Xu Qingli’s possible identity, Shui Miao refrained from mentioning baseless rumors. “Because Chairman Zhu brought all of Chairman Wen’s children living outside the family back to the Wen household—all of them except for the descendants of that woman.”
As she finished speaking, she shot a glance at Xu Qingli.
Xu Qingli finally understood—Shui Miao meant that if she really was part of the Wen family, she was likely the descendant of that mistress.
Xu Qingli: “…”
Was this supposed to be something to celebrate? Why was Shui Miao acting so mysterious about it?
“Even if you are a descendant of the Wen family, what happened back then has nothing to do with you,” Shui Miao said, trying to comfort her as if sensing her thoughts. “At that time, it wasn’t just you—even your parents probably hadn’t been born yet.”
“If it really is me, then it still definitely has something to do with me.” Xu Qingli felt that if this were true, she would immediately flee as far away as possible. As for meeting the Wen family? Just the thought made her scalp tingle—she wasn’t that shameless.
“But… I still think I might not actually be connected to the Wen family.” Without any concrete evidence, Xu Qingli wasn’t willing to believe it. “From what you said, shouldn’t President Wen also despise the descendants of that minor actress? If he’s paying attention to me now, is it for revenge? But with his status and power, crushing me now would be effortless—why would he bother going through all this trouble?”
Disliking someone meant even a glance at them would be irritating. So, how could he possibly greet her with a smile and treat her gently? Especially when the other person was far beneath him in status; messing with her would be as easy as squashing an ant to him.
“President Wen’s thoughts can’t be deduced with normal logic,” Shui Miao lowered her voice again. “Besides, I heard from some of the company’s seniors today that Chairman Zhu and President Wen don’t actually get along. Chairman Zhu only uses President Wen to make money, while President Wen wants to truly take control over the entire company… Otherwise, why else do you think he would suddenly take an interest in the film and entertainment division? It’s a provocation tactic. In any case, you might be an important figure in this case.”
Actually, from the seniors’ description today, the mistress who had angered Chairman Zhu back then also had a delicate, pitiable appearance, looking just like a little white flower. This description immediately made Shui Miao think of Xu Qingli. Combined with Wen Qiaozhou’s earlier attitude, she had already suspected this to be a possibility, hence her belief that Xu Qingli was part of the Wen family.
But since Xu Qingli now seemed resistant to this identity, Shui Miao didn’t press further, only adding, “Of course, I also might just be overthinking it. Given President Wen’s attitude toward you, whatever his intentions are, he’ll probably reveal them soon, right?”
At that, Xu Qingli felt an inexplicable nervousness wash over her.
*
Wen Qiaozhou watched Xu Qingli’s car drive out of the gate before turning to head toward the study.
In the living room, the old butler approached and handed him a scroll, smiling as he said, “Though this painting isn’t finished, I find it has a unique charm. It’s a rare masterpiece, so I took the liberty of keeping it.”
Wen Qiaozhou took it and unrolled it, examining it carefully.
Although Xu Qingli had only completed the basic outline, her strokes were precise, as if no further adjustments were needed.
Though Wen Qiaozhou hardly painted anymore, he had still learned some basic art skills as a child.
The more he looked, the more he admired Xu Qingli’s skill. Such precision couldn’t be achieved without years of dedicated practice.
Just as he was engrossed in the painting, his assistant Jiang Xing entered and said, “President Wen, the car has been prepared.”
“Alright.” Wen Qiaozhou carefully rolled up the scroll, bid farewell to the old butler, and left with Jiang Xing.
The car was parked right outside. Holding Xu Qingli’s painting, Wen Qiaozhou buckled his seatbelt with one hand and suddenly remembered something. He turned to Jiang Xing, “Next to the Star Orphanage where Xu Qingli lived as a child, there’s a—”
Before he could finish, Jiang Xing’s phone rang.
“Apologies,” Jiang Xing said, glancing at the caller ID before informing Wen Qiaozhou, “It’s Chairman Zhu.”
Wen Qiaozhou paused and gestured for him to take the call.
After listening to the instructions, Jiang Xing turned back, “Chairman Zhu requests your presence for dinner this weekend if you’re available.”
Wen Qiaozhou gave a noncommittal hum, leaning back against the seat with unchanged composure. He seemed to have completely forgotten his unfinished sentence from earlier.
Jiang Xing hesitated but didn’t remind him.
The fact that a grandmother would rather invite her grandson through an assistant rather than calling him directly spoke volumes about their strained relationship. Having served Wen Qiaozhou since his succession, Jiang Xing remained unaware of the reasons but knew better than to pry.
*
On Saturday evening, Wen Qiaozhou returned to the Wen family ancestral home for dinner.
“Qiaozhou, you’re here?” The long-serving housekeeper under Zhu Zhenshan’s employment greeted him warmly. “You’ve lost weight. Have you been overworking yourself?”
“Not at all,” Wen Qiaozhou replied courteously. “Just dressing lighter for the warmer weather.” After exchanging pleasantries, he proceeded to Zhu Zhenshan’s study.
At seventy-seven, Zhu Zhenshan still remained in remarkably good spirits. Dressed impeccably with neatly combed hair, her naturally aged face still bore traces of her former elegance. At this moment, she was sitting by the window practicing her calligraphy. The bold and vigorous writing contrasted sharply with her elegant and refined appearance.
Wen Qiaozhou approached her quietly so as not to disturb her.
Zhu Zhenshan’s calligraphy today retained its usual beauty and also carried an uncharacteristic softness to it.
“I’m getting old,” Zhu Zhenshan sighed, setting down her brush. “I can barely write anymore.”
Wen Qiaozhou lowered his gaze, avoiding her eyes as he responded, “You’re not old at all, Chairwoman. Age is irrelevant when the spirit remains young.”
Zhu Zhenshan paused. “But my spirit has aged. Lately, I keep thinking about past memories.”
“Which memories?” Wen Qiaozhou inquired neutrally.
“Memories of your grandfather.” She readjusted the Buddhist beads she’d removed for writing and put them back on her wrist, saying slowly, “Qiaozhou, do you think he’ll still be angry with me when we meet again?”
“He won’t,” came the firm reply.
“How would you know?” Zhu Zhenshan challenged in return.
“The fact that you can see him means he has been waiting for you,” Wen Qiaozhou reasoned. “Why would he wait for you if he was angry?”
“You clever boy—are you implying I might not even meet him after death?” Zhu Zhenshan pointed out his underlying implication. “He probably won’t wait for me.”
Wen Qiaozhou was about to speak when she waved her hand again and sighed, “I’m overthinking things again.”
“Don’t worry so much,” Wen Qiaozhou took the opportunity to say. “Let me update you on the company—”
“Let’s not talk about work at home,” Zhu Zhanshan interrupted him gently. “How about we talk about life instead? Have you found a girlfriend yet?”
Wen Qiaozhou paused briefly before replying, “Not yet.”
“Then how about Grandma introduces you to someone?” Zhu Zhanshan said with a smile. “In a few days, your Grandma Zhou’s granddaughter is returning from abroad. I’ll arrange for you two to meet. You played together as children and were very close back then, remember?”
“You’re mistaken,” Wen Qiaozhou said calmly. “We did play together as children, but we weren’t close. She even threw mud at me once.”
“Hahaha, is that so? Then I guess you two count as ‘no conflict, no acquaintance1,’” Zhu Zhenshan laughed even more heartily. “That girl studied design at a world-class university. Now, she’s cultured, sensible, and very accomplished. Of course, she might still fall a bit short compared to you, but… surely she’s better than those flighty, decorative little starlets in the entertainment industry, don’t you think?”
Wen Qiaozhou’s eyes darkened.
*
pls do not share this anywhere or u will always stub ur toe when u walk past a door frame !! this translation has been stolen from mioscorner.com, pls only read there i’m begging u :kneels:
After leaving the ancestral residence, the first thing Wen Qiaozhou said to Jiang Xing upon getting into the car was, “Find out who’s been reporting my whereabouts to Chairwoman Zhu.”
Jiang Xing tensed and immediately replied, “Understood.”
As the car slowly pulled away from the estate, Wen Qiaozhou gazed out the window at the aged yet dignified and imposing courtyard, watching it gradually fade from view.
“Oh,” Jiang Xing suddenly remembered something and turned back to Wen Qiaozhou. “Young Master Huo called earlier. He said he’s moving into a new place next week and invited you to the housewarming.”
“Tell him I’m busy—” Wen Qiaozhou’s tone was indifferent, but he abruptly stopped mid-sentence and said to the driver, “Head to the Hundred Flowers Complex.”
The Hundred Flowers Complex was the residential complex where Huo Wanfeng lived. Jiang Xing didn’t think much of it and turned the car around.
They soon arrived at the Hundred Flowers Complex. Huo Wanfeng lived in one of the inner buildings, but just as the driver was about to proceed further, Wen Qiaozhou said, “Just stop here, at Building Five.”
The driver, accustomed to his ways, didn’t ask questions and simply pulled over.
Wen Qiaozhou unbuckled his seatbelt and said, “I have something to attend to. You all can—”
Before he could finish, a car pulled in ahead of them. Jiang Xing noticed it and remarked, “Isn’t that Miss Xu’s car?”
As soon as the words left his mouth, the sound of a car door opening followed. Wen Qiaozhou had already stepped out.
Jiang Xing, who had been reaching for the door handle, withdrew his hand.
Wen Qiaozhou got out of the car just as the vehicle ahead came to a stop.
Perhaps noticing him, Xu Qingli quickly emerged from the car, looking surprised as she greeted him, “President Wen? It’s so late, what are you doing here?”
After hearing Shui Miao’s words, she had spent days drowning in anxiety, but contrary to her worries, Wen Qiaozhou had made no further moves.
Yet just as she had stopped dwelling on it, he appeared right outside her building?
“I came to see Second Master Huo about something,” Wen Qiaozhou said, meeting her gaze. “Why are you back so late?”
“I attended an event,” Xu Qingli replied, her voice noticeably weaker.
Today’s event had been exhausting, and she was completely drained.
Wen Qiaozhou noticed the tiny figure above her head, sitting on the ground with disheveled hair and a dejected expression. He almost burst out laughing.
But though his lips curved slightly, the smile didn’t quite form.
Xu Qingli had lowered her guard against Wen Qiaozhou quite a bit since their last time playing cards together. The lighting in this spot was slightly dim, and feeling bold, she stared at him more carefully, leading her to notice this subtle gesture of his, which inevitably made her wonder.
[Why does he seem unhappy?] A thought bubble slowly appeared above the little figure’s head.
Knowing that this “he” definitely referred to himself, Wen Qiaozhou felt a strange emotion welling up from within him.
He took a step forward, about to speak, when he saw the little figure suddenly stand up, another bubble popping up: [Watch me cheer him up!]
Then, the little girl dashed forward several steps and planted her hands on the ground as if attempting a somersault.
But just as her head touched the ground, a section of the ground suddenly caved in… leaving her head stuck, with only her feet flailing helplessly in the air. Her body was then immediately surrounded by a flurry of [Ahhhh!!!] bullet comments.
Xu Qingli could tell Wen Qiaozhou was in low spirits, and her mind even conjured up some funny moves she’d drawn in her comics. But it was just a thought, and she would rather die than actually demonstrate them to Wen Qiaozhou.
She cleared her throat, shaking off the ridiculous ideas, and was about to speak when she saw Wen Qiaozhou suddenly break into a smile.
Like ice and snow melting, like flowers unfurling their buds—it was breathtakingly beautiful.
any typos or broken links, pls comment or dm me on discord!
support mio on kofi! ◡̈
- “不打不相识” → a set phrase meaning people become acquainted through conflict ↩︎
