Jiang Lin was very cold, saying, “Sorry, we have nothing to talk about.”

As she walked away, Bian Haitao caught up with her, saying, “Linlin, you still hate me, don’t you?”

Linlin?

Jiang Lin felt a jolt and said quietly, “Bian Haitao, watch your words. Don’t flatter yourself. What happened back then is nothing now.”

“Is that so?” Bian Haitao stepped in front of her, blocking her path, and stared at her. “Have you really forgotten, or are you saying this to provoke me? Or…” He smiled with a hint of softness, “Do you still hold onto it…”

Jiang Lin didn’t think twice and slapped him hard across the face, so quickly that Bian Haitao didn’t even have time to react.

There was a sharp sound, followed by a stinging pain.

Bian Haitao looked at her in disbelief.

He touched his cheek but didn’t get angry.

Instead, he just stared at her with a complex look.

Jiang Lin gritted her teeth and said, “To avoid you thinking I hit you out of lingering feelings, I want to make it clear that I hit you because of your self-satisfied, sleazy attitude! You’re harassing me!”

She paused, her gaze firm and cold, without any hesitation or shame.

After a few years in college and working, she had become more confident.

Now, even when facing top leaders, she wasn’t nervous, let alone someone like Bian Haitao.

Bian Haitao was about to say something, but Jiang Lin interrupted him, “Bian Haitao, everyone has a youthful ignorance. Back then, I was young and didn’t understand people and true feelings, so I treated it like stepping in cow dung and paid the tuition.

But I’ve learned my lesson and know what genuine feelings are now.

No one holds onto past breakups forever.

For me, it’s like stepping in cow dung, learning the lesson, washing off my feet, and moving on.

Since the autumn of 1970, when I went to the countryside, you and I have had no more ties.

I’m officially telling you that unless it’s work-related, don’t bother greeting me. Let’s act like strangers when we meet.”

“Strangers?” Bian Haitao raised an eyebrow, his gaze growing colder but with a trace of pain and reluctance. “If you had truly forgotten and didn’t care, you wouldn’t say such heartless things. Only hatred would make someone say they never want to see or contact someone again. Can’t you see that? If you really didn’t care, we’d just pass by each other politely, not you slapping me and saying no need to greet.”

As he spoke, he grew angry and embarrassed.

He couldn’t accept that Jiang Lin, who once loved him deeply and was willing to do anything for him, could really move on and love another man.

Since their breakup, he had found it impossible to trust in love again.

He couldn’t fall in love with anyone else, nor could he believe that anyone else truly loved him.

Whenever he thought a woman was good and might develop into something, he measured her by her benefits. If a woman was nice to him, he compared her feelings to Jiang Lin’s, finding that they weren’t as pure and wholehearted as hers.

He would never find someone like her again.

Especially with how affectionate she and Cheng Rushan are, her success in university and growing excellence made her shine so brightly that others couldn’t help but look away.

Such a woman is the perfect wife—beautiful, intelligent, knowledgeable, and with a high status, flawless in every way.

For him, having such a woman as his wife would be ideal, as they have shared a past and would have a complete future together.

To him, neither Kuang Guomei nor Meng Yiyi, nor Jiang Ling, were suitable.

Even with Meng Yiyi’s help, advancing through normal channels is still very challenging.

Even if some major events are known in advance, participating and achieving merit is not easy.

It requires a supportive partner to enhance one’s success.

Unfortunately, the best opportunity has been missed.

Jiang Lin was amused and annoyed by his behavior, “Alright then. Director Bian, next time we meet, I hope you’ll call me by my title, or just ignore me altogether. Don’t call me by nickname again; we’re not close enough for that. Otherwise, I’ll have to report you to your department head for harassment.”

She turned and left.

Bian Haitao, without thinking, instinctively reached out to grab her arm, “Linlin…”

Before he could touch her, Jiang Lin had already briskly walked away.

What a joke—she kept her distance and was not close to him at all.

He wanted to grab her arm?

Only when a woman wants a man close can he have a chance. If she doesn’t want it, there’s no chance at all.

Bian Haitao watched her leaving with a complex, indescribable feeling in his chest—was it true love?

It was mixed with reluctance, defiance, and a sense of defeat.

Jiang Ling came out and saw him, quietly pulling at his hand, “Brother, you…”

Bian Haitao immediately shook her off, “Be mindful of the occasion.” He turned and walked away.

Jiang Ling’s expression twisted into one of resentment and madness.

Jiang Lin returned to the dinner.

It was almost over, and after the leaders left, others were still eager to continue and wanted to go somewhere else to relax.

Director Zhao smiled at Jiang Lin, “Jiang Lin, why not join us? After so many days of meetings, everyone is tired. There’s a new blind massage place nearby, known for its excellent techniques. Even Hong Kong businessmen go there for massages.”

Although Hong Kong had not yet been returned, there was already business interaction.

They liked getting massages in the mainland because they were cheaper and the techniques were skilled.

Dean Chen smiled and said, “How about we go play some basketball?”

Jiang Lin replied, “Sorry, everyone, I have work to do. I need to leave now. See you at the venue tomorrow.”

“Why so eager to go home, Little Jiang? Afraid your partner might mind? Haha, working women shouldn’t be so anxious.

We’ve just started getting to know each other, so it’s better to spend more time together to deepen our understanding and work closely. I’m very interested in the cultural city you proposed, and we…”

As he spoke, Director Zhao’s chubby hand reached towards Jiang Lin’s shoulder.

Jiang Lin frowned, lifting her left hand to move his hand away from her shoulder.

He smiled more broadly and lightly patted her elbow.

At this moment, someone suggested, “How about we visit an art gallery? There’s a new and promising artist with works full of spirit and meaning.”

Someone else disagreed, “The artist you mentioned? I saw her work too. It’s just a mix of famous techniques, lacking true spirit and meaning…”

Before he could finish, Jiang Lin and Bian Haitao, along with a few others, came out of the restaurant, making the situation a bit awkward.

Jiang Lin had overheard his comments and believed he was insulting her.

She said her goodbyes.

“Dean Jiang, let me give you a ride. Our company has a car here.”

Jiang Lin smiled and said, “Thank you, but it’s not necessary. My partner is coming to pick me up.”

She had specifically arranged with Cheng Rushan for him to pick her up today. He knew the schedule for such gatherings, including start and end times, and would arrive punctually.

As they spoke, a black SUV drove up and stopped right next to Jiang Lin.

It was the same second-hand SUV from her home, now repainted black, distinct from military and judicial vehicles.

Cheng Rushan stepped out of the car. Still in uniform, the slightly loose fabric looked sharp and imposing on his tall, sturdy frame.

His large hat cast a shadow over his face, making it hard to read his emotions.

Dean Chen and Director Zhao immediately recognized him and greeted him, “Director Cheng, nice to meet you.”

Getting Cheng Rushan to leave was as hard as moving a mountain.

Those with a certain status who deal with government agencies are generally aware that Cheng Rushan is as famous for his excellent looks as he is for his aloof and unpleasant demeanor.

As Cheng Rushan reached for Jiang Lin’s handbag, he nodded slightly in acknowledgment to those greeting him but didn’t wish to engage further.

Director Zhao couldn’t help but comment, “Director Cheng seems quite protective of Director Jiang. Haha, such a beauty certainly deserves a lot of care.”

If she were less attractive, he wouldn’t have been so concerned. With Jiang Lin holding both director and dean titles, Zhao naturally referred to his peer level.

Cheng Rushan’s brow furrowed slightly at Zhao’s comment.

Turning to him, he found Zhao’s attempt to get close rather presumptuous and uncomfortable, given they weren’t well-acquainted.

Jiang Lin introduced the people to Cheng Rushan briefly, mentioning their surnames and their direct units without taking up too much of his time.

Zhao Director felt Jiang Lin was downplaying his importance and hurried to list his achievements, detailing his university days, his work history, and contributions.

Just as Zhao was about to continue his lengthy introduction, Cheng Rushan interrupted him, “Nice to meet you all.”

His dark gaze fixed on Zhao, he said calmly, “Director Zhao seems to misunderstand my concern for my wife. This is not how it should be. I care deeply for my wife, who is a key figure in the provincial city’s expansion. Many projects require her personal attention, and both personally and professionally, I must support and protect her.”

“Such deep affection!” Dean Chen laughed heartily and shook Cheng Rushan’s hand, “Let’s have a meal together sometime.”

Cheng Rushan turned to Jiang Lin with a smile, “The directors and deans are all elites in the industry. Although I’m not a professional, I deeply admire your work. If there’s another gathering, I’d love to join.”

Jiang Lin glanced at him. If he attended a meal, the directors who enjoyed forcing drinks on others might face trouble.

She thought about advising him not to take it too seriously.

Zhao Director eagerly added, “After the meeting, we’ll gather here again. Director Cheng, please do come.”

Although Zhao was enthusiastic, these high-level intellectuals often looked down on government officials without a university background, thinking they were superficial and only interested in benefits.

Cheng Rushan saw through him at once and smiled, “Thank you for the invitation. I will make time to join and learn from you all. It’s an honor to understand the future development plans of our provincial city.”

He bid farewell to everyone, opened the car door for Jiang Lin, and helped her fasten her seatbelt before driving off under the curious gazes of the men.

Jiang Lin chuckled, “I hope they check your drinking capacity and come up with an excuse not to attend.”

Cheng Rushan now avoids drinking with others unless it’s with friends like Fang Chengguang, Lu Hang, or Dai Guohua, who have always tried to get him drunk but usually end up inebriated themselves.

Cheng Rushan said, “They’ve worked with you, so naturally, they should thank you in person.”

Jiang Lin smiled slightly, noticing through the rearview mirror that Bian Haitao and Jiang Ling were standing there, looking displeased.

Remembering something, she said to Cheng Rushan, “Director Cheng, I have a situation to report. Is there any reward?”

Cheng Rushan extended his right hand to hold hers, giving her a gentle look and teasing, “I’m afraid you’ll say you don’t want it.”

He had been on a business trip earlier, then she was on a trip, and she had just returned yesterday. He had been holding back from teasing her.

Jiang Lin didn’t respond.

“Director Cheng, we’re not young anymore…”

“Linlin, are you complaining that I’m old? I’m not even forty yet. Besides, I think even at fifty…”

“Cough cough cough!” Jiang Lin quickly interrupted, feeling embarrassed and her cheeks flushing.

He held her hand, feeling her temperature rise, and smiled at her. “I understand what you mean. I miss you too.”

Jiang Lin leaned against his arm. “Brother Shan, please stop being so flirtatious.”

He patted her head. It’s popular to perm hair these days, but she always kept her hair long and straight, thick, black, and smooth.

“Is anyone forcing you to drink?” he asked.

Jiang Lin laughed. “Who dares? They all know I’m a tiger. They’d better compete with me to see who can draw architectural plans most accurately by hand instead of making me drink.”

In her career, Jiang Lin had faced a lot of gender discrimination. Her approach was to excel in her profession and confront it head-on.

She was so skilled that she could draw architectural plans very precisely with just a pencil, as if she used a ruler.

Cheng Rushan played a part in her training, and there were some rewards and punishments involved.

After some playful banter, Jiang Lin got down to business.

She explained the dinner gathering with Jiang Ling and Bian Haitao, “I feel like there’s something fishy about it. I’ve seen Jiang Ling’s paintings. It’s not that I’m being critical, but even Xiao Jie and other professionals think her work is just decent, not great. But she’s suddenly become famous, with full guest lists and hot sales. It seems unusual.”

Cheng Rushan slammed on the brakes and parked the SUV under a locust tree by the roadside.

Jiang Lin looked at him in surprise. “What’s wrong?”

Even if there’s something shady going on, Cheng Rushan didn’t need to act this way; he could have simply discussed it at home.

Cheng Rushan rested his left elbow on the steering wheel, turned to look at Jiang Lin, and said slowly, “I’ve already had someone investigate Bian Haitao.”

Jiang Lin smiled, “Yes, we need to check him out. I’ve always thought something was off about him.”

Seeing her calm and composed, Cheng Rushan gently cupped her neck and gave her a light kiss, “Sorry I didn’t tell you earlier.”

Jiang Lin quickly glanced outside to make sure no one was around.

She pouted slightly and feigned anger, “Director Cheng, that’s not fair.”

Cheng Rushan’s heart tightened, just about to speak, but she continued, “Not telling me was a matter of work. Would I really get upset over Bian Haitao, someone irrelevant to me?”

Cheng Rushan laughed, “It’s my fault. I just thought you were a person who values emotions deeply.”

Jiang Lin pinched his cheek, “I’ll have to punish you. My affection is for those who matter. Why would I waste it on someone irrelevant? You’re so busy, yet you still have the energy to worry about this.”

After all these years, she thought that since she had no ties to Bian Haitao, he’d be irrelevant to her.

Cheng Rushan put his right arm around her and kissed her again. He didn’t doubt her, but he didn’t want her to be affected by external opinions or feel any negativity, even a little.

Jiang Lin asked curiously, “Any breakthroughs? You should look into his connection with Jiang Ling. Jiang Ling seems to have used this connection to back Bian Haitao.”

Understanding Bian Haitao’s nature, Jiang Lin felt that such a greedy, unfeeling man in a high position wouldn’t be serving the people sincerely.

Cheng Rushan replied, “Yes.” He started the car and briefly mentioned that Jiang Ling had used her art gallery to facilitate Bian Haitao’s bribery. He was careful with what he shared, only revealing what was necessary.

Jiang Lin was surprised, “Is he out of his mind?”

So foolish?

Cheng Rushan shook his head slightly, “He’s not stupid. On the contrary, he’s very clean and efficient, leaving no evidence.”

Bian Haitao went to the gallery to review prices, bought paintings, and resolved issues in a way that left no direct traces of the transactions.

Cheng Rushan had investigators look into it secretly, but they had no leads. Even if they suspected or concluded there was something wrong, they couldn’t gather evidence.

It was only through Cheng Rushan’s own efforts, using his connections and skills, that he managed to uncover some details.

Although Bian Haitao’s methods seemed sophisticated, they were merely deceiving the current level of police and inspectors and couldn’t escape Cheng Rushan’s keen observation.

Jiang Lin asked, “When do you plan to catch him?” His smugness was irritating.

Cheng Rushan replied, “The timing isn’t right.”

This meant that the evidence was insufficient for a conviction and could easily alert the target.

He didn’t tell Jiang Lin that Bian Haitao had tried to find a backer in the past and failed.

After switching to the Public Security Bureau, he continued looking for a patron but couldn’t make headway on his own.

So, he used Jiang Ling as a cover to accept bribes and gain political capital.

This was the most serious issue.

Cheng Rushan decided to bide his time and see who could resist the temptations of money and women.