holding up his wound."You naughty child, Auntie didn't hurt you, did she Why don't you say anything!"The Jiang mother lovingly lifted the little boy's small hand and gently blew on it."It's nothing, n...Rong Qikeng soon learned that Lin Meng had left B city and headed south. This was a great opportunity, a chance to get rid of Lin Meng. In this world, there are still some dark places, where murders continue to unfold in corners unnoticed by others. So killing someone in this crowded nation wasn't much of a deal. Even if the police investigated, most of the time it would just be dropped.

Wong Kei-kwan felt a surge of excitement. Once he acted, he could eliminate both of them at once, including that woman and that annoying kid!

But from the bigger picture, he endured it. From his investigation, piece by piece, he found that if he didn't kill Lin Meng, she could become a bomb!

He knew that Rong Ling cared about Lin Meng, which was good; it would make it easier for him to take action in the future.

Rong Ling wasn't young anymore; it was time for him to get married. He used to hope that Rong Ling would marry as late as possible, preferably never at all. But now he felt the time had come. If Rong Ling married Lin Meng, and Lin Meng became the mistress of the Rong family, then he could expose a series of blemishes and force Rong Ling to yield.

Or, what if Rong Ling didn't marry Lin Meng but another woman That works too. Women, after all, always have ambition, especially when a woman has a child, she is no longer just a woman, but also a mother, and she must consider her child. At that time, he could even unite with Lin Meng to support her rise to power, making Rong Ling's family discordant. A head of household who can't even handle his own family, how can he gain the respect of those below him! Abdication would be Rong Ling's inevitable end!

No matter what, Rong Ling always has a woman by his side, and Lin Meng is a huge obstacle.

Right now, he needs to consider which kind of woman would cause the most trouble for Rong Ling. After some thought, he called his wife and they discussed it, essentially settling on He Ya as the candidate!

Although the He family's influence is intimidating, it would have inevitably been a noblewoman from a prominent family regardless of whether it was He Ya. He Ya has one advantage: she and Lin Meng are not compatible. There are reliable reports that the He family matriarch has always disliked Lin Meng.

Great, that's her!

Mu Xin Feng picked a day and made an appointment with He Ya to go for coffee.

He Yaya had the intention to marry Rong Ling, so she naturally had a certain understanding of the complicated relationships within the Rong family. Mu Xin Feng was a character she best not get close to, but since she was Rong Ling's sister-in-law, there were some situations she had to deal with even before marrying Rong Ling.

The two chatted briefly, and as expected, Mu Xin Feng naturally started calling Rong Ling's sister-in-law. She warmly addressed He Ya:

"Rong Ling is no longer young, it's time for him to get married. He runs around all day and has no time to spare, it's really worrying to see. As his sister-in-law, I should do something at this time. Heya, I ask you, what are your feelings for Rong Ling! You two have been together for several years now, don't you have any plans to get married!"

He Ya was taken aback. She racked her brains but couldn't imagine that Mu Xin Feng would be so direct with her. According to her original idea, because of the rivalry between Rong Qikeng and Rong Ling, Mu Xin Feng would inevitably also dislike her!

What does this mean!

He Ya instinctively felt that there was something fishy about this. So she just feigned shyness and smiled, saying nothing.

Mu Xin Feng, upon seeing this, took a sip of coffee and smiled, but his tone was no longer so gentle.

“Well then, you’re not planning on getting married!” She blinked her dark lashes and pursed her lips slightly, a hint of sharpness at the corners. “I know that some women these days want to have their fun before settling down, so they put off marriage for as long as possible. But Rong Ling can’t afford to wait, he's already so old! Men his age should all have children by now. My grandfather is just waiting to hold his grandson! If you don't want to, just give me a straight answer, and I'll arrange for another woman to be with Rong Ling!”

He Ya, upon hearing this, felt a chill run down her spine. Even if she were the most brilliant person in the world, she couldn't figure out what Mu Xin Feng was trying to do right now! By the sound of it, Mu Xin Feng came to find her because of Rong Family's old master; the old master wanted a grandchild and urged Rong Ling to get married. So, he started with her first Was that what he meant!

He Yaxin's heart surged with ecstasy, but she immediately suppressed it. She smiled faintly, and spoke in a slightly hurried tone.

"Sister Feng, you've misunderstood. How could I not want to get married It's not..." She lowered her eyes slightly and put on a shy expression again. "It's just that Brother Rong has always been so busy!"

Mu Xin Feng's eyes flashed a triumphant gleam. Look, the fish has taken the bait.

Her face softened again, like a kindhearted elder sister comforting her. "Rong Ling, no matter how busy he is, he has to prioritize his own lifelong affairs first. This kind of thing can't be put off. Sister, it sounds like you want to marry Rong Ling!"

"Ah, Sister Feng…" He Ya pretended to be shy and gave a coquettish little groan.

Mu Xin Feng just smiled. "Alright, I have a good idea about this."

The two of them chatted for a few more moments, each with their own thoughts, and then parted ways.

He Ya was driving, a little distracted. Mu Xin Feng's hint before leaving seemed to be trying his best to match her with Rong Ling. This was naturally unusual, but He Ya was too excited. She attributed all of this to the old master of the Rong family putting pressure on Mu Xin Feng.

Then, He Ya thought of Rong Ling again and began to hesitate whether she should still carry out the original plan.

According to her sister-in-law Li Yiping's method, she should find a time as soon as possible to put the contraceptive medicine aside and then consummate her marriage with Rong Ling. Of course, this should be done during the fertile period so that she can get pregnant at once. After getting in touch with Feng Tan, she added another layer of insurance for herself, which was to have public opinion create momentum for her immediately after she slept with Rong Ling, forcing him to give her an explanation!

Now Mu Xin Feng suddenly inserted herself, which changed the situation somewhat. She needs to have a good talk with her family.

Grandmother He, He Ya's mother and Mu Xin Feng's mother-in-law, quickly gathered together. When He Ya told them about her conversation with Mu Xin Feng, the women all fell silent.

"It shouldn't be bad news!" Old Mrs. He, the eldest of them all, was the first to speak up. She had seen a lot and knew much more than the rest. "Even if Mu Xin Feng wants to play tricks, she has to see if we agree or not. Girl, here's what you do: Whatever Mu Xin Feng says that benefits you, agree to it. For anything else, just give a vague answer, don't fall for her trap!"

He Ya nodded.

The other two couldn't come up with any particularly good ideas either, and they all agreed to go along with He Ya's plan to be nice to Mu Xin Feng. The worst-case scenario was that they would all end up using each other!

Smart people should know how to capitalize on situations where others might try to manipulate them, gaining the most benefit possible and ultimately retiring gracefully with a resounding success!

He Ya immediately called Rong Ling, wanting to probe for information from him. She wouldn't be foolish enough to reveal anything that was still uncertain. She suggested going out for a meal together with Rong Ling, but was declined as Rong Ling had something urgent to attend to.

From Rong had gotten nothing, and He Ya put down her phone, feeling a little down. She had thought that after seeing the ice sculpture that night, she and he had gotten closer, but now it seemed that Rong Ling was still the person who could be cold whenever he wanted!

Could such a person soften because of another woman!

Her mind instantly flashed an image -- Lin Meng!

Immediately, she scolded herself, saying she shouldn't have given others a boost and undermined her own prestige!

*

Mu Xin Feng acted quickly. A few days later, he invited He Ya to come to the Rong family's main house for a meal.

He Ya almost couldn't contain her excitement when she received the news. The main residence of the Rong family was not a place that could be visited easily. Even though she and Rong Ling had been close for years, and rumors often spread that she was his girlfriend, she had never set foot in that place. Rong Ling's parents had also never made any gestures towards her. Now it seemed that it was indeed the old master of the Rong family who had made this decision.

That night, He Ya dressed herself up to be extremely beautiful. She specially went for a spa in the afternoon, making her already delicate skin even more delicate and smooth, glowing brightly. A pure white windbreaker, with a light brown wool sweater underneath, and a black short skirt at the bottom, paired with long leather boots, made her look exceptionally beautiful but not too trendy for the older generation!

The previous head of the Rong family, Rong Feiwu, who is also the common father of Rong Ling and Rong Qikeng, was very respectful to He Yamei. That night, he was specifically waiting for her at home, and naturally, Rong Qikeng's mother, Du Caiyi, was also present.

Actually, the one with a bigger face isn't He Yaya but Rong Qikeng.

Children, of course, are raised by their own side, stronger than those who suddenly appear. Feng Liu Wu is a suave person. It's possible that he sits on the position of head of the family, and he must be shrewd and capable. Therefore, although he attracts countless women, he still handles the basic duties of the head of the family fairly well. When he initially proposed to abdicate, he wanted to give way to Rong Qikeng, but he never expected that a Rong Ling would emerge, and then this position was snatched away by Rong Ling.

Although both sons are his, the position of head of the family would be an honor for him no matter who sits on it. However, the final outcome was different from what he expected, and beyond his control. For Rong Fei Wu, who always kept everything under his thumb, this was a stain on his record!

When he went down, his heart naturally couldn't be completely at ease. Although the facts proved that Rong Ling was very outstanding and turned the company's performance several times, Rong Ling and he weren't very close. He noticed that Rong Ling treated his uncle, Rong San, who had promoted him, better than his biological father, so Rong Feiwu instinctively leaned towards Rong Qikeng.

Rong Qikeng told Rong Feiwu about He Ya. Although Rong Feiwu had already retired, his former network of contacts and relationships couldn't be severed just like that. Naturally, those who needed to know would know some things. So, he agreed!

Both of them are sons, this position of the head of the family you vie with each other, as long as it doesn't fall into the hands of outsiders, he can naturally turn a blind eye. Besides, Rong Fei Wu's legitimate wife, Du Cai Yi, has nothing to do with Rong Ling, naturally she is partial to Rong Qi Ken, with her constant whispering in his ear, for Rong Qi Ken's request, Rong Fei Wu as the father naturally agrees to everything he can.

Mu Xinfeng was still very approachable. After He Ya respectfully greeted the two elders of Rong's family and presented them with gifts, she politely asked He Ya to sit down.

The couple, Rong Fei Wu and Du Cai Yi, were once at the top of their game. Compared to the younger generation, being too friendly could even damage their prestige! So during the conversation, Mu Xin Feng took the lead, with Du Cai Yi occasionally chiming in. The two men, Rong Fei Wu and Rong Qi Keng, sat on the sidelines, mostly keeping quiet.

He Yaya also came out from the crowd. In this kind of situation, she didn't show any stage fright and smiled naturally. She perfectly presented the demeanor of a wealthy young lady!

Then, Rong Ling returned. He arrived later than expected; if it weren't for Rong Fei Wu requesting him to return to the main residence tonight, he wouldn't have come back at all. Seeing He Ya present, Rong Ling narrowed his eyes slightly, pausing his steps before greeting the others who were sitting there.

"Dad, Auntie, Big Brother, Sister-in-law!"

Rong Ling had never called Du Caiyi "Mom." She always called her "Auntie," which increasingly made Du Caiyi dislike her. However, due to Rong Ling's current position, she couldn't express her disgust too openly.

So, you see, the family welcomed him with smiles, appearing happy and united like a typical joyful family.

Rong Ling didn't ask He Ya how she came, he just sat down beside him, but instead of going to He Ya's side, he sat next to Rong Qi Keng.

This seat arrangement is also quite deliberate. At least the few present are all incredibly intelligent people. With just a glance, one should have some idea about certain things.

This kind of thing, inviting He Ya over without her consent, naturally requires the elders to step in. So Du Caiyi spoke up and explained: "I've always wanted to meet He Ya myself. This girl is beautiful and has a good personality, that's well-known. It's just that I haven't found a suitable opportunity before. Today happens to be a good time when everyone is free, so we can get together, which is great."

He Yana naturally behaved modestly. "Mother-in-law, I'm not as good as you say!"

Du Caiyi laughed. "Don't be modest, I think you are even better than what I heard, truly, seeing is believing."

Mu Xin Feng then followed with a low chuckle.

Rong Ling looked at the scene, her mind turning slightly. She sat there quietly without making a sound. After all, this man always had a cold face towards people, even his own family, he wouldn't give anyone a particularly good look. Everyone didn't think there was anything wrong with his attitude.

"Let's eat!" Rong Fei Wu, the head of the household, announced and stood up first.

He Ya immediately stood up as a gesture of courtesy.

Kong and the others gradually left, He Ya slowly lagged behind, then pulled Rong Ling's sleeve and feigned ignorance, worryingly asking, "I thought it was only your father who wanted to see me, but I didn't expect..."

What she didn't say next was enough to prove her innocence. And she was smart not to mention Du Caiyi. You don't have to be a genius to know that Du Caiyi and Rong Ling's relationship couldn't possibly be good!

Feng Ling only "hmm"ed, still saying nothing more.

He Ya didn't care; her attitude had already made it clear. No matter what kind of show the Rong family wanted to put on tonight, she just needed to show her best side and look for every opportunity to climb up!

Guests had not been at the house long before they began discussing dinner. After all, a meal table can invisibly bring people closer together and break the ice of initial awkwardness. It also allows time to prepare oneself for conversation.

""

Mr. Rong inquired about the health of Mrs. He, as well as the well-being of He Ya's parents. The Rong and He families were large clans with numerous generations, and among their younger generations, there had been marriages between them. Through connections like cousins and in-laws, the Rong and He families were considered close relatives.

He Yayi answered and conveyed greetings from the elders to Lao Rong.

Feng Fei is truly ageless. A man like him, who was already handsome in his youth, attracted girls of all ages to be infatuated with him. Even as he ages, he doesn't seem to age too quickly. Moreover, growing up in a wealthy family means eating well and dressing well, which naturally makes it easier to maintain good health. At 63 years old, he still looks no older than his late 40s. He bears a resemblance to Rong Ling, with the kind of mature beauty that only comes with middle age. Coupled with the fact that he has spent years in high positions and been flattered by people, when he leans back on the sofa right now, his bearing is not inferior to that of Rong Ling and Rong Qikeng, those two young men.

Du Caiyi, just stop talking. Women are best at dressing up. For someone like her status, she's never lacked beauty and skincare. And to always keep the hearts of those charming husbands hooked back, this legitimate wife naturally needs to put in extra effort on her appearance. She's 59 years old now, but she looks like she's only in her forties, quite well-maintained. Her eyes are slightly long and narrow, her lips thin, and her chin pointed; she appears very shrewd. Back when Rong Fei was the head of Wudang, Du Caiyi helped out a lot!

Although she only received her husband's love for a short time, she won his lifelong respect through her own long-sleeve cheating and cleverness.

So, this woman is not simple!

Outsiders call Rong Fei Wu "Old Master Rong" not because he is old, but because as the head of the Rong family, it's considered respectful to address him as such in Beijing. It's a customary form of deference.

The old master asked He Ya again, with a rather skillful approach. He first inquired about her age, then how long she had known Rong Ling, what she currently did for work, and her future plans, etc. This clearly showed that he was probing into the woman's background and attitude.

He Yaxin's heart was about to burst with happiness, and she responded with a sweet smile all the way. The light shone on her face, revealing her shyness and apprehension when she accidentally bumped into Rong Ling, clearly showing that she had fallen for him.

During this time, Rong Ling remained silent, and no one bothered to ask about his thoughts.

"It's getting late, Rong Ling, why don't you send He Ya home"

With this sentence, the dinner party for tonight comes to an end.

Elders' commands, juniors must obey. In a large family, some etiquette must be observed. Even though Rongling is already the head of the family, he is no exception.

Rong Ling nodded, stood up, led He Ya out of the house and into the car.

The courtyard lanterns were a little dim, casting He Ya's blush even more vividly upon her face. Her slightly lowered head almost perfectly conveyed the image of a woman who was both excited and apprehensive after visiting her fiancé’s family for the first time.

After getting on the car, she bit her lip and shyly blinked as she asked.

"Brother Rong, look at what father is doing…" He then purposely didn't say the rest.

Rong Ling pursed her lips, silently reversed the car, and after starting on the road, coldly replied: "Don't think too much, just have a meal together!"

This statement was like a basin of cold water poured over He Ya's head.

She has never felt Rong Ling's coldness this intensely before, it's truly a bit unbearable!

Her heart was full of tenderness and joy, but Rong Ling blocked it all out. She wanted to say something, but she couldn't find the words. She had always been a delicate flower, someone who had always been pampered and adored. So when she felt hurt now, she couldn't bring herself to smile at Rong Ling and act as if nothing was wrong.

In silence, the car got closer and closer to the He family's home.

He Ya's heart slowly returned to peace. In the past, she was always the weaker one. Even if she was unhappy, before parting with Rong Ling, she would never give him the cold shoulder. She would definitely regain some warmth with Rong Ling before getting off the car.

This man, more often than not, she felt like she couldn't afford to offend. Because he was too excellent, and she cared too much, so she was always afraid that she would just drive him away like this.

But today, she won't do that!

Because she remembered there was a better show to come, one she and Feng Xiaotan had planned. The icy atmosphere between her and Rong Ling would only make this performance more perfect.

Soon, the carved iron gate adorned with intricate designs appeared before He Ya's face.

The He family also occupied the large mansion. According to past custom, it should have been Rong Ling driving the car into the He residence and then stopping in front of the main house to let off He Ya. But today, when the headlights hit the iron gate, He Ya shouted to stop.

"Big Brother, just put me down here!" Her tone was cold, doing a good job of using the situation to show how hurt she was by him.

Rong Ling looked at He Ya, who was bowing her head and biting her lip, a hint of hesitation creeping into his expression. This dinner tonight was a complete disaster, he knew it well. Though he couldn't be sure if He Ya had played a part in it, he was always aware of her feelings for him. He wasn't exactly a good man. When He Ya expressed her desire to be with him, he agreed under the condition that they would both benefit from their relationship. It was a mutually beneficial arrangement. Perhaps one day, when the time was right, he would naturally marry He Ya, and that would be it for them. He figured He Ya had always held onto this hope, which is why she waited for him.

Things have changed.ng had submitted. The coveted Deputy General Manager position became vacant. Sun Mai, who was originally slated for the role, was directly appointed as the Marketing Department manager, while Fang Kun...