Chapter 22: Second Update

Zhong Min had been staying in the school dormitory recently, but today Zhong Ru found out and threw all his belongings into the trash while he was in class, forcing him to return here.

However, as soon as he entered, he heard someone saying, “Let him get out.”

And he had a gut feeling that the “him” they were referring to was probably him.

Was this really happening?

It would be best if Zhong Hejing couldn’t stand him and kicked him out of the house, so Zhong Ru would have no choice but to accept it.

So he changed his shoes and walked forward, ignoring whether they were talking about him, and sat on the bar stool by the island counter, propping his head up without saying a word.

Zhong Hejing didn’t expect Qiao Wu to continue the topic after seeing Zhong Min arrive, and it was clear that the last sentence wasn’t just meant for her.

Thinking about how Qiao Wu had managed to handle the Lu brothers and might even be able to control Lu Jinzhi, Zhong Hejing felt an inexplicable sense of admiration for her. So she didn’t care whether Zhong Min could hear and continued to ask, “What do you mean?”

Qiao Wu: “He’s a fully capable adult. Whether he’s unwilling or resists, it’s his own business.”

Zhong Min immediately thought, isn’t this about me?

Since they’re not even trying to hide it, then he’s not to blame for listening.

And this is Qiao Wu saying it, so it’s normal for him to resist.

Zhong Hejing felt that Qiao Wu hadn’t finished speaking, so she patiently waited.

Sure enough, Qiao Wu continued, “Similarly, he should also take responsibility for his actions. You don’t have any sibling bond with him, and it’s clear he feels the same way. So why should you bear the brunt of his anger? If you can’t stand him, of course, you can tell him to get out.”

Zhong Min couldn’t hold back anymore.

He stood up, clapping his hands as he walked to the table, locking eyes with Qiao Wu: “I think you’re absolutely right. Now, let’s explain to them what it means to not impose on others what you don’t want for yourself.”

Zhong Hejing frowned, “Who gave you the right to speak?”

Zhong Min sneered, “You’re talking about me, and I can’t listen? If you don’t want us here, just kick us out. Who cares about staying here? I have hands and feet; I can take care of Shi Xia myself.”

He turned to Qiao Wu, “You feel the same way, right?”

No wonder he always felt Qiao Wu was different from other wealthy people—it was a soul connection.

Qiao Wu didn’t answer, just glanced at him indifferently.

Zhong Min felt uneasy under her gaze. Had he guessed wrong?

The next second, his premonition came true. Qiao Wu continued, “Of course, you can leave, as long as you can bear the consequences.”

Zhong Min was furious, “Consequences?! You’re telling me to talk to Zhong Ru about consequences?!”

“Why are you taking it out on me?” Qiao Wu put down her cup and looked at him coldly. “It’s obvious you can’t handle it.”

“How do you know I can’t handle it?”

“From what I’ve seen of you.” Qiao Wu remained calm, her tone steady. “I’ve met you twice. The first time, you helped your brother fight with classmates. The second time, as a guest here, you lashed out at me without even greeting me first. If you really leave this family, do you think you can set a good example for your brother? Or do you think it’s fine for him to end up like you?”

Zhong Min felt as if he had been slapped hard across the face. He paused for two seconds before saying, “If I hadn’t been pushed to this point…”

“Pushed?” Qiao Wu chuckled.

Although one was standing and the other sitting, her legs were crossed in a clear posture of superiority, and her smile carried a hint of mockery. “Zhong Ru did push you, but that was her doing. You chose the stupidest way to deal with her.”

“What do you mean?”

“You don’t have the ability to confront her directly, so you resort to petty, childish methods to make her uncomfortable. But in reality, these things don’t bother her at all because you can’t threaten her. Your positions are unequal, and you’ve only wasted your own time and energy, even dragging those around you into it. Don’t you realize that apart from Zhong Ru, no one owes you anything?”

Zhong Min’s throat moved slightly, but he couldn’t refute her.

Qiao Wu continued, “If you were alone, you could do whatever you wanted. But since you’ve chosen to take on the responsibility of caring for your brother, you should shoulder it properly. Because even without Zhong Ru, you’ll encounter countless others like her in the future. Are you going to choose the same way to deal with them? If so, your brother will truly suffer under your care.”

In the story, after his sister passed away, Zhong Min was forced into a higher position. He always viewed everyone with a cynical gaze until the female protagonist came to redeem him. Yet, even then, he remained entangled with her, going back and forth for a long time.

Qiao Wu thought…

He was just making trouble for himself.

Zhong Min had been thoroughly berated, yet he was clearly the victim!

“So, what do you think I should do?” he asked with a cold laugh.

“If you’ve taken on the responsibility, then you need to become capable enough to handle it,” Qiao Wu said casually, picking up an annotated document from the table and tossing it in front of him. “If I were you, I’d figure out who’s on my side and who’s not. Stay here and play it straight. Didn’t she want you to inherit her company? Then rise to a position higher than hers and turn the tables—control her, threaten her. At that point, who could do anything to you? You could keep the company if you like it, or donate it to charity if you don’t. Who could stop you then?”

“Or,” Qiao Wu’s voice grew softer, “pack up your things now and leave with your brother. Go find a school, earn money to support your family, and report your mother for unlawful imprisonment. If you don’t know how to dial 110, I can teach you. If that still doesn’t work, I can provide you with legal aid, though it won’t be free. You’ll have to pay me back once you start earning. Consider this my act of charity for now.”

Zhong Hejing: “…”

Qiao Wu didn’t notice the strange looks on their faces and continued, “As for the next time, you’ll have to figure it out yourself. After all, you’re so full of pride, aren’t you?”

By the end of her speech, Zhong Min was seething with anger, yet he couldn’t refute a single word.

Because Qiao Wu was right.

Zhong Ru deserved to die a thousand deaths, but he did have the responsibility to care for his brother. In the future, he would encounter more people and more difficulties, and Zhong Ru was just one of them.

If he didn’t become stronger, he would only be threatened by one Zhong Ru after another.

Since the birth of his younger brother, Zhong Min had known what responsibility meant. He also understood that the path ahead was not smooth, but he had never felt tired because of it. However, suddenly finding himself in a completely different environment, a world vastly different from his previous one, he felt lost and unsure of how to move forward.

Now, he suddenly realized that there were many unknown things in the future that he had yet to experience. He was merely going through one of the hurdles, and there would be even more formidable mountains to climb than Zhong Ru.

But he hadn’t grown stronger yet, and worse… he had even dragged his younger brother into this.

“And your sister has no obligation to pay for you,” Qiao Wu said. “Just like now, you’re living in her house, and if she feels uncomfortable, she can kick you out anytime.”

Hearing this, Zhong Hejing actually felt a bit ashamed.

Because before this, she had indeed placed great importance on the Zhong family, believing that since Zhong Min had come, he shouldn’t add to her burdens.

That’s why she was so angry at Zhong Min’s childish tricks, otherwise she wouldn’t have hit him. She wasn’t as clear-headed as Qiao Wu.

But today she had also come to a realization—it was just a Zhong family.

There were countless people with the surname Zhong in the world, and she was just one of them. If this family fell, it didn’t matter. As long as she was still around, she could rebuild another Zhong family.

“I’m not forcing you,” Zhong Hejing said. “We share half the same blood, so I’m giving you a choice now.”

“Either, follow me obediently and learn. In the future, the Zhong family’s assets will be split half and half between us. As for how you and your brother divide it, and how you deal with Mom, that’s your business.”

“Or, pack your things and get out of my house right now. I don’t care how you and Mom fight or get entangled, but if you ever drag me into it again, I won’t let you off.”

Zhong Min used to think that he was the one the whole world had wronged, and he even harbored a sense of pride.

But only now did he suddenly wake up to the fact that in the face of absolute power, he was insignificant, nothing at all.

Now he indeed had the chance to leave the Zhong family, but he had another thought.

In the future, he would also need to earn money to support his brother. It didn’t matter where he earned it, but staying here not only allowed him to earn more but also to grow stronger, so that he could eventually stand up to Zhong Ru.

This was his only quick stepping stone.

“She’s your mom. You know I’m going to deal with her, yet you’re still willing to let me follow you and learn?” he asked Zhong Hejing.

Zhong Hejing countered, “Are you going to kill her?”

Zhong Min: “…No.”

“Then it’s fine,” Zhong Hejing said. “She’ll bear the consequences of her own actions. As for my affairs, you don’t need to worry.”

Zhong Min was secretly shocked.

Indeed, there wasn’t a single normal person in this family.

“Alright, I’ll listen to you,” he immediately made his decision.

Zhong Hejing exchanged a glance with Qiao Wu and smiled, “Then pick up these things and go study.”

The documents that had once made him want to vomit now didn’t seem so detestable with his changed mindset. Zhong Min didn’t say a word, bent down, and gathered the messy pile of things.

Just as he was about to return to his room, he thought of something and turned back to Zhong Hejing, “I heard that you’re…”

He didn’t say “dying,” paused for a moment, and then continued, “Anyway, half is half. I won’t take your share of the money. Whether you want to get a lawyer or whatever, I’ll sign.”

“Don’t worry,” Zhong Hejing understood his meaning, “I won’t die.”

But that’s not for you to decide.

Zhong Min didn’t continue to argue with someone who was about to die. He simply acknowledged with an “oh” and left.

After taking a few steps, he remembered Qiao Wu’s comment about his lack of manners and turned back.

He looked at Qiao Wu, who was sitting on the sofa with a calm expression. Somehow, the tranquility and openness in her light eyes pricked him, stirring a tumult in his heart.

If he could also reach such heights, would Qiao Wu not look at him with such eyes? Not like a stranger or an immature young man.

He steeled himself and said, “Goodbye, and thank you.”

Qiao Wu nodded gently, “Goodbye.”

Watching Zhong Min’s figure disappear, Qiao Wu felt somewhat puzzled.

Is this the protagonist?

Seems just ordinary.

“Thank you,” Zhong Hejing said.

Qiao Wu didn’t pay much attention, “Just a casual remark.”

Zhong Hejing thought to herself, it wasn’t that casual.

Without such a heart and a clear mind, one might not think of this layer. Everyone is unique.

No wonder the Lu Family members are so obedient in front of Qiao Wu.

“I think I now understand why Lu Jinzhi chose you as the Housekeeper.”

Qiao Wu was unusually silent.

It wasn’t Lu Jinzhi’s choice; he might have regretted it before.

“He went abroad, and so did you, for two years each,” Zhong Hejing suddenly realized, “Did you plan it?”

Qiao Wu: “No, it was a coincidence.”

Zhong Hejing was curious, “May I ask why you chose to be the Housekeeper for the Lu Family? What did you mean by saying they needed you?”

As far as she knew, Qiao Wu had grown up in the Lu Family and studied alongside the Lu Family’s young masters. With her abilities, she should be more than just a Housekeeper. The Lu Family has many servants; they shouldn’t lack a Housekeeper.

Qiao Wu countered, “What did you think of them before this?”

“…Honestly?”

“Yes.”

“That might not be very polite.”

Qiao Wu chuckled, “Just as you thought, but in my eyes, they are not like that.”

“You hesitated for Zhong Min even without any feelings for him,” she said, “And I am closer to them than you are to Zhong Min. I don’t want them to become the kind of people you think they are in the future.”

Zhong Hejing understood, “Now, in my heart, there’s already a bit of a change.”

“Then we need to keep up the good work.”

“After the change, will you stay there forever?”

Qiao Wu thought seriously and shook her head gently, “No.”

Although the Lu Family pays well, the work is also very busy, and there are many tasks.

She is not an insatiable person, nor is she ambitious. Once their fate changes, she should choose something more relaxed to do. By then, she would just be their friend, which would be nice too.

Zhong Hejing’s eyes lit up, “If possible, I mean if.”

She looked at Qiao Wu, “If you’re not continuing as the Housekeeper there, would you like to come and work with me?”

Qiao Wu was surprised, “What?”

“I know how high Lu Jinzhi’s standards are,” Zhong Hejing mentioned this person with a bit of disdain, “Ordinary people can’t catch his eye, so I’m quite curious. The people around me now are just so-so, but I admire you and think working with you would be harmonious. Would you consider it?”

Zhong Hejing instinctively felt that being a housekeeper and running her own business were completely different things and could not be compared.

Qiao Wu chuckled softly, “I won’t be leaving the Lu Family anytime soon.”

“It’s fine, it’s just a matter of time.”

Qiao Wu was about to say something more when her phone suddenly rang. It was Lu Yingchi calling.

She apologized and answered the phone, “What’s up?”

“My car broke down,” Lu Yingchi’s voice sounded a bit muffled. “Send the driver to pick me up.”

Qiao Wu glanced at the time. Since it wasn’t far from Lu Yingchi’s school, she said, “I’ll come. It’s on the way.”

His tone immediately perked up, “Really?”

“Yeah, twenty minutes.”

Lu Yingchi grunted, “If you’re even a second late, I’ll complain to the Old Man.”

Because the house was quiet and they were close, Zhong Hejing could clearly hear the conversation. She escorted Qiao Wu to the door but still didn’t voice her final thought.

Why does Lu Yingchi seem like a dog, wagging his tail at the slightest beckoning?

But because of this phone call, she became even more convinced that Qiao Wu shouldn’t stay with the Lu Family.

She knew about the things Qiao Wu’s father had done in the past—scattered and with little freedom.

This only strengthened her resolve to bring Qiao Wu into the company.

Twenty minutes later, Qiao Wu arrived at the entrance of Lu Yingchi’s school.

Young Master Lu stood straight under the scorching sun, hands in his pockets, his expression dark. His blond hair looked as if it had been fried by the sun, yet it couldn’t overshadow his striking face. Both men and women couldn’t help but glance his way.

Someone who knew him approached and greeted, “Lu Shao, wanna grab a drink?”

Lu Yingchi replied impatiently, “No.”

Many at the school knew that Lu Yingchi had a falling out with Hu Zhuo and his group, and it hadn’t ended well. So, they were cautious not to provoke him. “I heard your car broke down. Need a ride home?”

Lu Yingchi’s expression softened slightly, “Can’t you see I’m standing here?”

???

So?

Seeing the other person’s confusion, Lu Yingchi clicked his tongue, “Someone’s coming to pick me up, got it?”

“Ohhh!” His classmate suddenly understood, “Got it, got it! Your girlfriend!”

Otherwise, he wouldn’t be standing here in the sun, playing the role of Hou Yi.

Lu Yingchi’s girlfriend!

A real Chang’e?!

What girlfriend? Lu Yingchi’s gaze turned sharp, “What are you thinking? None of your business.”

“Alright, alright, I won’t say more. You wait.”

The classmate bid farewell to Lu Yingchi and had only taken a few steps when he saw a low-key black BMW pull over and stop by the roadside. Lu Yingchi, who had been standing at the back, quickly strode over and opened the passenger door, saying arrogantly, “You’re late.”

A pleasant, amused female voice came from the car, “Alright, my fault. Are you getting in or not?”

As Lu Yingchi turned to get into the car, the classmate caught a glimpse of the person inside, and his eyes widened.

Damn, it really is Chang’e!

So beautiful, and Lu Yingchi’s been keeping her hidden!

He instinctively took a step forward, but Lu Yingchi noticed as he closed the door, his gaze instantly turning heavy and oppressive.

Qiao Wu, inside the car, noticed he hadn’t closed the door, “What’s wrong?”

“Nothing,” Lu Yingchi shut the door, blocking her view. “Why are you here?”

Qiao Wu casually replied, “I have a meeting.”

Hearing this, Lu Yingchi glanced at her but held back from asking further.

How come this person has appointments every day, both at home and outside? Is he really that busy?

“You can just call the driver directly for things like this next time,” Qiao Wu said.

Lu Yingchi remained silent.

He did have the driver’s number, but when he opened his phone, the first thing he saw was the pinned contact. By the time he realized it, he had already made the call.

“Did I disturb you?” he asked.

Sensing the displeasure in his tone, Qiao Wu tried to smooth things over: “No, I was just worried you’d get sunburned, so I came to pick you up right away.”

“You were two minutes late.”

“Tsk, Lu Yingchi.”

Lu Yingchi grumbled, “Can’t even let me say it.”

As they were nearing home, Qiao Wu’s phone rang again.

Concerned that she might need to handle some matters, she habitually connected to Bluetooth as soon as she got in the car, making it easier to take calls.

Seeing that it was Zhong Hejing calling, she asked curiously, “What’s up?”

“We got interrupted earlier, and I didn’t finish what I was saying,” Zhong Hejing said. “It’s about you coming to work with me.”

The previously listless Lu Yingchi suddenly perked up like a bristling puppy, his eyes wide open.

Qiao Wu had a bad feeling and was about to interrupt Zhong Hejing, but the other person continued, “I don’t want you to misunderstand, so let me explain. I’m not asking you to be my housekeeper. I’ll make sure my mom doesn’t interfere with the company’s affairs in the future. I have my own development plans, so if we really end up working together, aside from your salary, we can discuss equity dividends.”

This, Qiao Wu knew.

To be honest, working at the company might be easier than being a housekeeper, at least the work would be more straightforward.

“I’ll consider it,” she said politely.

Lu Yingchi instantly reacted.

Consider it?!

Zhong Hejing: “Then I look forward to that day.”

“Consider what?! She’s mine!” Lu Yingchi finally snapped, shouting at the display, “No considering! She’s not considering it, don’t even think about it!”

Without waiting for Zhong Hejing to respond, he immediately hung up the phone.

Qiao Wu sighed, “I told you to be polite.”

“And you’re defending her?!”

“I haven’t gone out to have fun or drink with friends for a whole week, and you’re still not satisfied!” Lu Yingchi was indignant, angrily saying, “Not only am I hanging up on her, but I’m also going to establish family rules!”

Starting today, he would make a sign and put it at the guardhouse.

Zhong Hejing is forbidden from entering!