Chapter 974: Turning In
Editor:Â Henyee Translations
The Fifth Elder believed that Ruan Xuelingâs severe injuries and the carâs loss of control were due to the accident, unaware that Utopiaâs Smile had intervened at the last minute.
After Gu Zhaomingâs family moved to the capital, the Fifth Elder made efforts to make amends. He actively helped Gu Zhaoming reclaim property held by the Elder Council and arranged for his wife and daughter-in-law to assist Ruan Xueling with social connections.
Given Ruan Xuelingâs background and her acquaintance with Tong Wan, integrating into the capitalâs high society was not a challenge for her.
Although the Fifth Elder felt guilty about the severe impact on Ruan Xueling and the near disruption of Gu Yang and Gu Jinâs College Entrance Examination, he did not regret his actions. He believed that all sacrifices were justified for the sake of the family.
âZhaoming, I understand your anger and blame toward me and the Gu family, but remember the century-old foundation of the Gu family and the expectations your grandfather had for you.â The Fifth Elder was well aware of Gu Zhaomingâs character and feared he might abandon the family or even destroy it out of anger.
Upon discovering the deception and realizing that his return to the capital had been orchestrated by the Fifth Elder, Gu Zhaoming was indeed enraged and felt a deep sense of betrayal.
But now that he had come this far and become the head of the Gu family, Gu Zhaoming was determined to hold onto his newfound power, even for the sake of his children.
âFifth Uncle, turn yourself in,â Gu Zhaoming said, turning his back.
The Fifth Elder appeared significantly older in that moment. âAlright.â
Despite his actions and the near death of Ruan Xueling, he did not seek Gu Zhaomingâs forgiveness. As the mastermind behind the plot, he could not escape responsibility.
Gu Zhaoming then asked, âDoes the Old Master know about this?â
The Fifth Elder replied, âThe Old Master is unaware. Like you, he has always believed that Zhaoâan and Old Madam were responsible.â
When a new Family Head was appointed, the Elder Council would select new elders from the younger generation to form a new council. This process was nearly complete at that time.
The news of the Fifth Elderâs confession created a significant stir within the Gu family. No one had anticipated that the car accident involving the new mistress of the Gu family was orchestrated by the Fifth Elder to force the Family Head to return to the capital.
However, the details of the case were kept sealed from the public.
Gu Zhaoming did not take out his anger on the Fifth Elderâs family, as they were unaware of his actions. Despite the betrayal, the Fifth Elder had been a significant support to him throughout his life.
Gu Zhaoming was left feeling deeply conflicted and uncomfortable.
When Gu Zhaoye learned that the crisis with the third branch had been resolved, he brought two bottles of rare wine to share with Gu Zhaoming. âBrother, I know youâre going through a tough time. Letâs drink together; it might help ease the burden.â
âLeave the wine and go,â Gu Zhaoming replied coldly.
Gu Zhaoye set down the bottles with a touch of embarrassment. Though he was encouraged by his son to mend relations with his eldest brother, he still found Gu Zhaoming intimidating.
Gu Zhaoming did not find solace in alcohol; he had a few glasses but soon returned to his responsibilities.
By early March, the spring breeze had warmed the air, and the snow and ice had melted.
Gu Yang and the others started school.
Previously, Tong Jiayin shared the same dormitory with them, but with Tong Jiayin now in jail, only Gu Yang, Gu Jin, and Qiao Manman remained in the dormitory.
Ning Gui and the counselor next door had arranged a change to the same dormitory as Gu Yang.
Ning Guiâs desk was meticulously organized, filled with books and materials related to physics. After tidying up, she immersed herself in reading and studying.
When Qiao Manman entered the dormitory with her luggage and saw Ning Gui, she was immediately taken aback. âWow, Ning Gui, youâre already studying on the first day of school? You really are a top student!â
Ning Gui smiled sheepishly and said, âEarly birds get the worm.â
Qiao Manman threw her arm around Ning Guiâs shoulder as if they were long-time friends. âIs this just a top student being early, or are you a roc spreading its wings?â
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