Chapter 58: Perhaps He Was Simply Surprised

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A City People’s Hospital

“Do you know who that woman is?” Old Master Huangpu sat on the sofa, grasping his cane. Dressed in a black Tang suit, his imposing air was even more pronounced. Though his hair was white, his aura was powerful, making him impossible to ignore.

“I couldn’t find out much. I only know her name is Shangguan Renran, and she only recently returned to the country,” Huangpu Qingyin answered honestly. She hadn’t seen her mother in a long time.

It was only when she inquired that she learned Huangpu Shenqing had actually declared war on both the Jun and Bai families. Now, both families were suffering heavy losses, and there was nothing of substance they could offer to help.

She was furious.

“He truly acted against you because of that woman? So, you hit her with your car?”

“Grandfather, you have no idea how arrogant that woman is. The first time we met, she completely disregarded me. She even asked what I was supposed to be! How could I tolerate that? After all, I am a member of the Huangpu family—how can I let an outsider bully me?”

“So that’s your reason for hitting her?” His voice was low, yet full of stern authority.

“Grandfather, the incident with the painting last time was also because of her. I was tricked because of it.”

“Can’t you use your head? Do you believe whatever others say?”

The old master tapped his cane against the floor. He had two sons in his life, but the one he pinned his hopes on… Now he had two grandsons and a granddaughter, but only one among them had the ability to further the family’s legacy. That was why he handed over the reins, never expecting he’d raised a wolf cub who would eventually turn against him.

“I… I was just too angry.”

“Enough. So, from what you’re saying, Huangpu values her highly?”

“Yes, Grandfather. I’m certain Huangpu Shenqing is very fond of her.”

“How far do you think Huangpu would go for her?”

“Grandfather, do you mean…”

——

“Miss?”

It was already late. The rest of the department had already gone home.

“Yes, I’ll be finished soon.”

Just one last document remained. She wanted to review it before leaving. She’d been busy all day, perhaps because she had only just returned and wanted to understand every detail.

In a few days, her mother would be going back to Country M for one last fashion show that had yet to conclude.

She wanted to spend more time with her, so she preferred to finish up now and free up her schedule for her mother. She quickly skimmed the document, then picked up her bag and left with Ye Xin.

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Ye Zuo was waiting in the garage. “Miss.”

“Have you been waiting long?”

“No, I just came down as well.”

“How about we eat out tonight and go home after?” It was late, and Shangguan Renran didn’t want to trouble Aunt Zhang.

“We’re fine with whatever you like,” Ye Xin replied after glancing at Ye Zuo.

“Then let’s choose the nearest restaurant.”

Ye Zuo drove, Ye Xin sat in the front passenger seat, and Shangguan Renran sat in the back.

She pulled out her phone to check nearby restaurants and noticed a Japanese place. She handed her phone forward. “Let’s have Japanese food.”

It had been a long time since she’d eaten it.

“Alright,” Ye Zuo replied, a gentle warmth flickering in his eyes.

They went to a popular Japanese restaurant that was bustling with people. Reservations were required; otherwise, one had to wait in line. Just like them—they had to wait.

She felt a little disappointed. It wouldn’t be so bad waiting alone, but she didn’t want Ye Zuo and Ye Xin to go hungry with her, so she considered leaving.

At that moment, a man who looked like a manager stopped in front of her. “Are you Miss Shangguan?”

“I am. And you are…?”

“I’m the manager here, responsible for this place. This Japanese restaurant is a private property of President Huangpu. He contacted us, instructing us to give you the highest priority.”

“Huangpu Shenqing? But how do you recognize me?”

Shangguan Renran was startled. What did this mean? Did all his private businesses know who she was? Sure enough, the truth came out the next second.

“We have a photo of you, Miss Shangguan.”

“He sent it to you?”

“Exactly. Miss Shangguan, there’s no need to wait. We’ll open President Huangpu’s private room for you.”

“Thank you for the trouble.”

“No trouble at all. It’s an honor to serve you.” He was the first to receive the future mistress of the president.

Behind her, Ye Xin was a little surprised. Hadn’t they only met a few times? Could it be they were friends now, hence the special treatment?

“Miss?”

“I’ll explain everything in a moment. Let’s go in first.”

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The three of them entered a private room on the third floor. It was even more spacious and bright. There was a platter of fresh fruit on the small table, an assortment of drinks on a small cabinet, and a square dining table.

After glancing at the menu and ordering a few dishes, the manager quietly withdrew.

Shangguan Renran put away her coat and bag, taking a tangerine in her hand. She felt nervous, since she hadn’t yet spoken to Ye Zuo and Ye Xin.

“Miss, what is it you wanted to explain?” Ye Xin stood by the drinks cabinet, pouring grape juice.

“After I tell you, you must promise to keep it a secret. You can’t tell my father or mother, and especially not my grandfather.”

“Is it something that important? If so, you don’t need to say it, Miss.”

Ye Xin found three cups and poured each of them a drink.

Ye Zuo gripped his cup tightly. He seemed to sense what Shangguan Renran was about to say. He lowered his head, letting his hair fall over his brow to hide his expression.

“I…” Shangguan Renran squeezed the tangerine in her hand.

“I’m with Huangpu Shenqing.”

Crash—

Ye Zuo’s cup shattered in his hand.

“Ye Zuo?”

“It’s alright, Miss. He’s just surprised, aren’t you, Ye Zuo?” Ye Xin nudged him under the table. Damn it, what now?

“I am a little surprised. How did you and he end up together?” Ye Zuo calmly brushed away the shards of glass. His palm was bleeding, but he didn’t seem to care.

He lowered his head, hiding the pain in his eyes, and tried to sound natural.

“I’m just as surprised myself. No wonder you’re both shocked.”

“Yes, it’s hard for us to imagine,” Ye Xin quickly replied, hoping to move past the topic. She was worried Ye Zuo wouldn’t be able to contain himself…