Chapter 985: 985: To Beidu (7)

Chapter 985: Chapter 985: To Beidu (7)

Xin Family?

Shu Jiao furrowed her brows. Liang Wei’an seemed to know what she was thinking and promptly added, “It’s the Xin Family from West City.”

Shu Jiao nodded, indicating she understood. Beside her, Ruan Jianguo watched the two of them exchange subtle signals, appearing to have perfect tacit understanding, and felt a pang of jealousy. Turning his attention, he tried to curry favor with Shu Jiao by serving her food, even deliberately calling out loudly, “Wife, eat more!”

Ruan Jiaojiao, sitting nearby, was amused by Ruan Jianguo’s reaction. She couldn’t understand where her father got all this unwarranted jealousy. She’d heard from her mother last year that Liang Wei’an was already married, clearly no longer a threat.

After handing the invitation to Old Shu, Liang Wei’an nodded to everyone before stepping out.

Shu Jiao glanced at the invitation and then asked Old Shu after setting it down, “Dad, has that child from the Xin Family gotten any better?”

Old Shu shook his head. “I heard he’s still the same—somewhat unpredictable.”

To be fair, the rumors surrounding the Xin Family’s child were harsh—people called him an idiot, a madman, even mentally ill. Old Shu was not one to gossip irresponsibly, so he rarely discussed such matters.

Having experienced her own daughter’s struggles, Shu Jiao felt particularly empathetic toward that child from the Xin Family. She said, “Back in the day, I had some ties with Xin Qi. In three days, we’ll go with you to visit.”

“Alright.” Old Shu was glad to hear it. Though these kinds of banquets were generally tedious, having Ruan Jiaojiao and the others accompany him made him happier—he even felt a tinge of pride, as if he couldn’t wait to take Ruan Jiaojiao out to show off.

After breakfast, Ruan Jiaojiao stayed a while, chatting with Old Shu, but eventually felt too tired and retreated to a pre-prepared room to rest.

Watching Ruan Jiaojiao sleep, Ruan Jianguo felt his heart tighten. Although everything was technically settled now, he couldn’t figure out why he remained so terrified of Old Shu.

Fortunately, Old Shu didn’t pull him aside for a private conversation but instead went to the study with Xiu Xi.

Seeing Xiu Xi disappear behind the study door alongside Old Shu, Ruan Jianguo couldn’t help but sigh internally. This kid sure was useful!

Back then, Old Shu had already begun to suspect Xiu Xi’s true identity. He even took him to have his photo taken and discreetly inquired after returning to Beidu. Yet, the Duan Family never showed any indication of searching for anyone. They were a distinguished family, and Old Shu understood the tacit rules and taboos that prevailed behind closed doors.

Thus, despite his suspicions, he refrained from making a bold visit to confront them. In hindsight, it proved wise not to act impulsively back then; otherwise, he might have wound up in a completely untenable situation.

The old man and the young boy spent a short while talking in the study. When Old Shu emerged, he looked thoroughly pleased. Xiu Xi, though only twelve years old, demonstrated a surprising sense of responsibility; Old Shu believed he would manage things well.

Of course, if things ever progressed to a point where Old Shu’s help was necessary, he wouldn’t stand idly by. After all, this child was his precious granddaughter’s lucky star—he couldn’t afford to lose him.

As Old Shu exited the study, he saw Ruan Jianguo chatting with Shu Jiao in the living room. Perhaps sensing the old man’s presence, Ruan Jianguo’s body noticeably stiffened. Old Shu’s previously amiable demeanor instantly darkened—was he really that fearsome?

“Alright, you’ve been on the train for so long, you must be tired. You don’t need to stick around here. Go rest; Xiaohao will return tonight. Freshen up and save your energy—we’ll go out for dinner.” Old Shu muttered irritably.