Chapter 32: The Heroine’s Resolve

The morning’s unresolved tenderness lingered until now.

Zhao Yu, never one to abandon his responsibilities, gently tucked a stray lock of hair behind Dai Ning’s ear. Her lips, kissed until crimson, carried a color that was hard to ignore. Even someone as composed as Zhao Yu couldn’t help the faint blush creeping up his ears.

“I’m heading out,” he said.

Dai Ning nodded quickly. Zhao Yu might as well leave now—she genuinely feared he might suggest reliving “last night’s events” all over again.

Once he left, Dai Ning casually tossed the ointment into the trash. Just now wasn’t the right time to push matters further; it seemed she’d have to wait a little longer.

Meanwhile, Zhao Yu delivered the documents to Lan Rongrong. She remained persistent, still attempting to persuade him.

“You must understand the value of that piece of land. It’s the most valuable asset left by the Shen family. If we can acquire it, no one will ever dare underestimate you again.”

To rise from nothing and attain social status often requires years of relentless effort. Such tempting words would be hard for most to resist.

But Zhao Yu simply shook his head. “No need.”

He didn’t even bother to advise Lan Rongrong against pursuing that plot of land. She looked down on Lan Lingyun, but she herself was far from a business genius. It would be all too easy for her to lose everything.

Lan Rongrong, arrogant and inexplicably confident, wasn’t the type Zhao Yu cared to warn.

Naturally, Lan Rongrong resented his unyielding nature.

Seeing Zhao Yu take the promised benefits and leave, she called out reluctantly, “Zhao Yu!”

He paused. “Is there something else?”

Lan Rongrong decided to speak plainly. “With your abilities, you shouldn’t stay in that tiny village. If you’re willing, you could stand alongside me, and we could manage the Lan family together.”

She stepped closer. Though she admired and fancied this man, her gaze carried the condescension unique to the wealthy. “I need a strong partner. What you’re receiving now as payment? My father wouldn’t even take it seriously.”

Her implication was clear—she sought a husband willing to marry into her family, one who could first prove himself worthy in her father’s eyes.

Zhao Yu listened quietly. Amused, he laughed outright.

“You’re not wrong—I’m not the ‘strong partner’ you’re looking for. Miss Lan, you’d better search elsewhere.”

He turned and left. Lan Rongrong, desperate, reached out to grab him, but Zhao Yu sidestepped her hand. “Apologies, I have other errands to run. This conversation ends here.”

As his figure disappeared around the corner, Lan Rongrong stomped her foot in frustration.

—

The items Dai Ning wanted weren’t easy to find, especially the small, fluffy wontons she had requested—something unique to another region, not locally available in Huan County.

Zhao Yu walked down three streets before an elderly woman, moved by his persistence, agreed to make them specially for him. She had sold such wontons in her younger days and felt nostalgic as she saw Zhao Yu asking around tirelessly.

Her craftsmanship was impeccable, and Zhao Yu thanked her earnestly.

The old woman, her face full of wrinkles, smiled warmly. “You must be buying this for someone you love. Is she pregnant and craving this?”

Zhao Yu replied awkwardly, “No.”

The old woman chuckled even more. “Ah, so you’re courting a girl? Young man, best of luck!”

Zhao Yu didn’t explain further. He paid extra as a token of gratitude and left with the wontons. When he finished dealing with Lan Rongrong, it had been sunset; by the time he returned, night had already fallen.

Carrying the items Dai Ning had specifically requested, Zhao Yu arrived at her room. He overheard her playing a game on speakerphone while taking a call.

Intending to avoid interrupting, he paused, but the voice on the phone caught his attention. It was an elderly man, speaking with vigor:

“Ning Ning, listen to Grandpa. You’ll be eighteen in a few days. Uncle Murong’s son just returned from studying abroad. I’ve seen his photo—he’s handsome and capable. Didn’t you used to enjoy playing with him as a child? Your younger brother is immature, but Murong Lang could take care of you in the future.”

Dai Ning, her phone propped on her knee, responded vaguely, “Oh.”

The elderly man, sensing her inattentiveness, continued, “In families like ours, marriages rarely have a foundation of love, just like your parents. Grandpa doesn’t want that for you, but you need to understand that the prosperity of a family is something we must consider. The person who cares for you in the future must be strong and capable. Only then can Grandpa feel at ease. Once the situation with Mojue is resolved, come back and meet him.”

Zhao Yu stood still for a moment before quietly leaving.

Qingtuan softly reminded Dai Ning, “Zhao Yu left.”

Finally lifting her head, Dai Ning tossed aside her phone. The person on the other end was, of course, not her grandfather. While Grandpa Ji had his concerns about her protection, he would never consider arranging a match for her so early.

She had even hired a voice actor to play the role of her “grandfather.”

Zhao Yu was a clever man. After overhearing that conversation, he would understand—if he didn’t grow stronger quickly, there would never be a future between him and Dai Ning.

Zhao Yu, steady by nature, wasn’t easily discouraged. But it was precisely because he was clear-headed that he could see the daunting gap between them.

Grandpa Ji would only come to value Zhao Yu in the original story five years later, after he had made a name for himself through sheer ability and become a young luminary.

At that time, Grandpa Ji needed a grandson-in-law who was as fierce as a tiger, cunning as a fox, and loyal as a wolf.

Zhao Yu fit the bill perfectly, but there was one flaw in Grandpa Ji’s judgment—Zhao Yu had never truly loved Dai Ning, so none of his bravery, intelligence, or loyalty had been directed at her.

This time, Dai Ning wouldn’t wait five years for him to grow. She intended to force him into the fray.

In the kitchen, Zhao Yu reheated the food that had gone cold, but the chill in his heart lingered.

He had heard similar words twice in one day.

Lan Rongrong’s proposal had been laughable, but hearing “Grandpa Ji’s” words struck a chord. The truth was universal—love alone wasn’t enough to claim a family’s precious jewel.

Lowering his gaze, Zhao Yu scooped the wontons into a porcelain bowl and brought them to Dai Ning.

She was no longer on the phone.

Her eyes lit up. “Wow, you actually got the fluffy wontons!” she exclaimed, tasting half a dumpling and praising it enthusiastically. “So good!”

She didn’t mention the earlier phone call, instead casually asking, “Have you finished your business with Lan Rongrong? When can we leave?”

Zhao Yu paused. “We’re not leaving yet. I’ve decided to try my hand at the land in Wudong.”

Dai Ning wasn’t surprised. “Oh.”

She continued eating happily, alternating between wontons and a donut in her other hand, unbothered by the odd mix of sweet and savory.

Zhao Yu watched her carefree demeanor, his expression complicated.

He tilted her chin to make her meet his gaze. “Do you really want to be with me?”

So Zhao Yu knew how to doubt her, after all?

Dai Ning, a donut still in her mouth, mumbled, “What’s in it for me? Is there money? Good food?”

Zhao Yu released her chin. Of course, it was a typical Dai Ning response—always centered on her own comfort and happiness.

In a low voice, he muttered, “Why do I even have expectations for you?”

Whether he understood or not, the outcome remained the same.

Dai Ning, seeing his furrowed brow, playfully leaned against him, offering the remainder of her donut to his lips.

Zhao Yu stroked her cheek, took a bite, but his eyes remained shadowed, reflecting her radiant smile.

Unbeknownst to her, Zhao Yu had already realized her plan. He was far sharper than his calm demeanor suggested. Dai Ning was often underestimated, but she never underestimated others.

Zhao Yu took her hand and placed it over his chest.

His heart beat steadily beneath her palm. In a quiet voice, he said, “Feel that? Don’t let me down.”

For her, he remained both clear-headed and willingly foolish. If, in the end, he still found himself manipulated by Ji Dai Ning, no one would accept such a fate willingly.

Dai Ning found his expression rather intriguing. What would happen if she let him down? Anger? A descent into darkness? Surely it wouldn’t go that far.

Zhao Yu said, “Answer me.”

Dai Ning compared their feelings earnestly before responding, “I can feel it—yours beats slightly faster than mine.”

He was silent for a moment.

Dai Ning’s interest was piqued. “Want to feel mine?”

Following her gaze, Zhao Yu’s eyes landed on her chest, high and proud. Without a word, he pulled up her collar, effectively ending the topic of exploring emotions with Ji Dai Ning. He must have been out of his mind just now.

“No need.”

—

Zhao Yu was someone who acted on his decisions swiftly. The morning after deciding to compete for the Wudong property, he informed Lan Rongrong while Dai Ning was still asleep.

Lan Rongrong was delighted. She had assumed she’d have to tackle this challenge alone and hadn’t expected Zhao Yu to change his mind and agree to assist her.

“Wudong is so valuable for three main reasons. First, there’s a naturally formed lake perfect for cultivating pink pearls. Second, the island within the lake is home to abundant medicinal herbs. Most importantly…” Lan Rongrong lowered her voice. “It’s rumored that Wudong contains mineral deposits, including countless raw crystals and agates.”

Zhao Yu had done his research during this period and confirmed her claims. Just one small crystal mine would make the property immensely desirable.

After a moment of contemplation, Zhao Yu said, “The Shen family kept this land secret because they didn’t want to report the minerals to the state. Their intent was to mine in secret, which is not sustainable. If we acquire it, we’ll proceed through legal channels to obtain exploration and mining rights.”

Lan Rongrong wavered slightly, tempted by the unreported profits.

Seeing her hesitation, Zhao Yu sternly reminded her, “Look at how the Shen family fell despite their former glory. We’re here to do business, not challenge the law.”

Lan Rongrong eventually suppressed her greed. “Alright, but how do we get the property?”

The Wudong land wasn’t openly available for bidding. To conceal its hidden treasures, the Shen family hadn’t listed it under their name. Instead, ownership was divided into three shares and scattered among three loyal civilians.

“I’ve thought about this,” Zhao Yu said. “Prepare some materials. We’ll head to Wudong tomorrow.”

Though young, his steady demeanor inspired confidence. Some people were simply born to navigate the highs and lows of the business world, transcending age or background. Feeling like she’d found her anchor, Lan Rongrong nodded with a smile.

She felt a hint of joy. Perhaps Zhao Yu’s change of heart meant he had feelings for her after all. Why else would he suddenly agree to collaborate?

Zhao Yu ignored her admiring gaze and left.

Back at the house, Dai Ning was in the living room stringing beads. A collection of purple crystals lay scattered around her. Seeing him return, she greeted him cheerfully, “You’re back! I’ve got a surprise for you!”

Kneeling to gather the scattered crystals, Zhao Yu asked, “What surprise?”

Dai Ning motioned toward the door.

Standing by the entrance were a visibly emotional Du Tian and a man wearing a hat.

Zhao Yu’s reaction to seeing Du Tian was a mix of unease and exasperation. “…?”

Dai Ning found it amusing. “Du Tian couldn’t bear to leave you, so she’s back! I didn’t send her away this time—wanted to enjoy the show. She’s persistent, isn’t she? No wonder I couldn’t outmaneuver her later on.”

At this point, Du Tian hadn’t yet reclaimed her identity as the second daughter of the Ji family. Her tenacity rivaled that of bamboo, able to endure anything.

“Don’t talk nonsense,” Zhao Yu said.

He stood and addressed Du Tian. “Why are you back? Didn’t you leave with Liu Shuan and the others?”

Du Tian composed herself. With her previous persona shattered, she dropped the pretense of being weak and replied seriously, “When Shen She came to the village, my mother and I were the first to encounter him. I overheard them discussing Taizhou, where they seem to have a powerful relative. On the way back, I ran into Cui Yao. He came from Taizhou and knows a lot. He came specifically to warn you.”

Dai Ning turned her attention to the man beside Du Tian, who was introduced as Cui Yao.

He had decent features, fair skin, and an air of refinement.

Under the watchful eyes of everyone, Cui Yao removed his hat, revealing that he was missing an ear, as if it had been cut off by a sharp blade.

Cui Yao nodded. “Hello. I heard the Shen family in Huan County was arrested, but you need to stay vigilant. It’s not over yet.”

Zhao Yu’s expression remained calm. “What do you mean?”

Cui Yao’s face twisted momentarily. “I used to work for Shen Tuo She’s uncle, Shen Tuo Feng. He’s a cunning and ruthless man. He assaulted my sister, and when I tried to protect her, he cut off my ear.”

Without evidence, these atrocities had become unsolved cases. Cui Yao had endured years of humiliation, biding his time to exact revenge. Learning about the crackdown on the Shentu family, he seized the opportunity to act.

Dai Ning wasn’t sure whether to believe him. She whispered to Qingtuan, “Is Cui Yao genuine? Should Zhao Yu be wary of Shen Tuo Feng, or is this a trap?”

Or perhaps the male and female leads’ plot armor was so strong that even in her meddling, Du Tian could conveniently stumble upon a knowledgeable ally to help Zhao Yu avoid danger.

Qingtuan was equally confused. After flipping through the “script,” it hesitated. “It… seems real?” The story had deviated so much from the original that the book was now only marginally helpful.

Dai Ning shrugged, resigned to being clueless alongside Qingtuan.

Zhao Yu, his expression unreadable, turned to Cui Yao. “Perfect timing. I have some questions for you.”

As the men moved to discuss matters, Du Tian’s cold gaze landed on Dai Ning. After the previous incident with the foul water, she seethed with hatred for her.

Dai Ning set aside her beads, smiling sweetly. “You’ve had a rough time recently.”

Du Tian couldn’t resist responding despite her resolve. “Why?”

“You’ve gotten much darker, and there are fine lines at the corners of your eyes.”

No woman could bear such remarks. Furious, Du Tian’s face turned red.

“We’re completely different,” Du Tian said sharply. “I brought Cui Yao back to help Brother Zhao Yu. What can you even do? You’re worse than Lan Rongrong!”

“How do you know I’m useless?” Dai Ning tilted her head. “I can help him too. He really likes it when I do.”

Du Tian refused to believe that the spoiled young lady could contribute anything meaningful.

Dai Ning smiled mischievously. “You and Zhao Yu are like the Celestial Dog and Erlang Shen^[1]By saying Du Tian and Zhao Yu are like the Celestial Dog and Erlang Shen, she implies a loyal, subordinate relationship, as the Celestial Dog is Erlang Shen’s companion and servant.. He and I are like the farmer and the midday sun.”^[2]Dai Ning compares herself and Zhao Yu to the farmer and the midday sun, humorously implying she is a source of toil or hardship for him.

It took Du Tian a moment to process, and when she did, her face turned crimson. “Ji Dai Ning, have you no shame?”

“I’m just following everyone else’s example,” Dai Ning replied lightly. “You keep it in your heart; I just say it out loud. Stay away from me, okay? Uncle Qian’s upstairs, and he’ll come down if you push me too far.”

Having suffered countless losses to Dai Ning’s sharp tongue, Du Tian held back, knowing an argument would only end in frustration.

In her mind, Du Tian scoffed. The novel described Zhao Yu as upright, aloof, and composed. Given the traditions of Xinghua Village, he was surely a man of principle.

Even if Ji Dai Ning threw herself at him, Zhao Yu would never accept her. Right?

With the plot playing in her mind, Du Tian sneered internally. Ji Dai Ning’s day of regret was approaching fast.