Jiang Jiang guessed, "It should be Sister Chu, or little Yuan."
Because except when necessary, Ji Xu'an would not send her WeChat messages.
Jiang Jiang tapped it open and saw that the message was indeed from Chu Yueqi.
Xie Xiao immediately deflated. "What a completely unsurprising answer. It doesn't feel novel at all."
Jiang Jiang couldn't help laughing.
Chu Yueqi had asked her out shopping. Since today and tomorrow were both registration days at S University, and Jiang Jiang would only start classes the day after tomorrow, she was free tomorrow with nothing to do.
Actually, according to Jiang Jiang's own thinking, she still had quite a few things to handle. But Chu Yueqi's tone was so earnest that it was truly difficult for Jiang Jiang to refuse.
"Don't tell me this Chu Yueqi really likes you? You only added each other today, and she's already inviting you out."
Xie Xiao didn't have a very good impression of Chu Yueqi. Of course, in front of Xie Xiao, Jiang Jiang had only spoken well of Chu Yueqi, but Xie Xiao instinctively felt that Chu Yueqi was somewhat frivolous.
Love at first sight—when you get down to it, isn't that just about looks?
When beauty fades, love wanes. Feelings like that are the easiest to change. Xie Xiao did not think highly of Chu Yueqi.
"Whether it's true or not isn't important. What's important is that she truly means well for me," Jiang Jiang replied.
Xie Xiao was a little confused. "Then are you going to accept her pursuit? But isn't our target Ji Xu'an?"
Her expression suddenly turned strange, shock mixed with anticipation and excitement. "Don't tell me you want to cuckold Ji Xu'an?"
Xie Xiao sucked in a sharp breath. Suddenly, it didn't seem entirely impossible.
Jiang Jiang shook her head helplessly. "Xiao Xiao, what are you thinking?"
"What I mean is, precisely because Sister Chu treats me well, I can't hurt her."
"Since it's destined that we can't walk to the end together, it's better to cut through the mess quickly and let her give up that thought as soon as possible."
This time Xie Xiao understood. She suddenly felt a bit sorry for Chu Yueqi. The seed of love hadn't even had time to take root and sprout before it was going to be strangled in its cradle by the very person she liked.
But Jiang Jiang did not immediately refuse Chu Yueqi's invitation. She first asked if there was something Chu Yueqi needed.
Chu Yueqi was clearly trying to pry at Ji Xu'an's wall, but she naturally couldn't say that directly. Fortunately, before sending the message, she had already thought of a reason.
[Sister Chu: Actually, I went to help my cousin register today. Her birthday is coming up soon, and I still don't know what to give her. I wanted to ask you to help me take a look. You two are about the same age, so your aesthetic tastes should be similar.]
A very good reason. It didn't make her purpose too obvious, yet it could bring her closer to Jiang Jiang.
In fact, Jiang Jiang saw it very clearly. She could even guess Chu Yueqi's next step.
"If the atmosphere is good enough tomorrow, Sister Chu will probably introduce her cousin to me. Once we become familiar with each other, my opportunities to interact with Sister Chu will naturally increase."
"After that, she can also have her cousin put in a little effort and say some good things about her in front of me."
Listening to Jiang Jiang's analysis, Xie Xiao felt even more sympathy for Chu Yueqi.
She probably never imagined that her entire plan had already been completely seen through by Jiang Jiang—and that Jiang Jiang had no intention of fulfilling it.
"Then are you going?" Xie Xiao asked.
Jiang Jiang nodded. "I'm going. I have to make things clear."
But before that, Jiang Jiang had something else to do.
She didn't immediately agree to Chu Yueqi. Instead, she replied:
[Sorry, Sister Chu. I need to ask my sister first.]
They were both called "sister," but the difference of one extra word made all the difference. Intimacy and distance were clear at a glance.
Chu Yueqi was probably hurt. It took her quite a while to send a new message.
[Sister Chu: It's okay. I'll keep waiting for your reply.]
Jiang Jiang said "okay," but instead of contacting Ji Xu'an, she turned and sent a message to Ji Heyuan.
[Jiang Jiang Doesn't Eat Ginger: Little Yuan, Sister Chu asked me to go shopping with her tomorrow. Rabbit peeking.jpg]
Ji Heyuan replied quickly.
[Ji Heyuan: ???]
[Ji Heyuan: Why is Chu Yueqi asking you out for no reason! Jiang Jiang, did you treat my words like the wind by your ear? You're not allowed to agree to her!]
Jiang Jiang lay on the sofa, slowly typing.
[Jiang Jiang Doesn't Eat Ginger: I asked my sister. She said it's up to me.]
Ji Heyuan did not doubt the truth of that sentence, because during the day Ji Xu'an had said the same thing—she didn't care who Jiang Jiang made friends with.
[Ji Heyuan: ! My sister is just saying the opposite of what she means. You can't take it seriously. Don't think she doesn't care!]
Jiang Jiang let out a soft laugh. Seeing that message, Xie Xiao couldn't help curling her lip. "Is her filter toward her sister a bit too thick?"
Saying she means the opposite of what she says? Ji Xu'an's heart was clearly just as cold as her face.
Jiang Jiang continued replying.
[Jiang Jiang Doesn't Eat Ginger: But I've already agreed to Sister Chu. A person can't go back on her word.]
This time, Ji Heyuan took quite a while to reply. Even through the screen, Jiang Jiang could feel her frustration.
[Ji Heyuan: Then why are you telling me? Are you deliberately trying to make me unhappy?]
[Jiang Jiang Doesn't Eat Ginger: No. I'm just worried that if we accidentally run into each other tomorrow, you'll misunderstand my relationship with Sister Chu.]
Ji Heyuan believed this explanation. If Jiang Jiang hadn't told her in advance, and she suddenly saw the two walking together, she might really misunderstand.
But Ji Heyuan would never admit that. She was stubborn and refused to soften her words.
[Ji Heyuan: S City is so big. How could we run into each other so easily?]
[Jiang Jiang Doesn't Eat Ginger: Oh.]
Jiang Jiang exited her chat with Ji Heyuan and tapped on Chu Yueqi's profile picture instead.
[Jiang Jiang Doesn't Eat Ginger: Sister Chu, I need to have lunch with Grandma tomorrow at noon. Can we meet in the afternoon?]
Chu Yueqi replied instantly.
[Sister Chu: Sure, sure, sure! Anything's fine. I'll listen to you!]
She sent several celebratory emojis in a row. It was obvious she was genuinely happy.
Xie Xiao thought to herself: Poor thing. Cherish your happiness now, because tomorrow you won't be able to.
—
Early the next morning, Jiang Jiang got up.
She first made herself a simple breakfast. After eating, she set off for the nursing home.
Ji Xu'an had specially assigned a driver for her. Jiang Jiang knew that in this world there were buses and subways, and if nothing else, she could call a car. Traveling was very convenient.
But she had never taken any of them before, and she felt somewhat unsure, so she didn't refuse Ji Xu'an's arrangement.
After all, in the past when she went out, there had also been a coachman from the residence driving her carriage. Jiang Jiang adapted well to this sort of thing.
When she arrived at the nursing home, Old Madam Ji had just finished breakfast and was preparing to take her usual walk by the lake. This was her daily routine, usually accompanied by Xiao Chen.
With Jiang Jiang there today, Xiao Chen did not follow.
Jiang Jiang supported the old lady as they slowly walked toward the lakeside. The morning sunlight scattered across the water like little fish swimming, the surface shimmering.
The gentle breeze seemed intent on keeping their secret, carrying their low conversation through the willow leaves dancing with raised arms, letting it dissipate together into the warm sunlight.
Jiang Jiang was reporting yesterday's situation to the old lady.
"She probably doesn't fully believe me yet, but I can feel that her attitude toward me is clearly not as rejecting as before."
Old Madam Ji couldn't help sighing. "Back then, I forced her to agree. This matter has always been a knot in Xu'an's heart."
She turned to look at Jiang Jiang, guilt unconsciously appearing in her eyes. "It was my fault. I caused a rift between you and Xu'an as well."
"Grandma, please don't say that. If you hadn't softened your heart and agreed to fulfill my infatuation, Xu'an and I might never have had the chance to meet in this lifetime." Jiang Jiang first soothed Old Madam Ji's emotions, then lowered her voice. "Grandma, the plan I mentioned to you yesterday should be feasible."
Old Madam Ji patted the back of her hand. "Don't worry. Grandma will help you."
"Good child. You are deeply devoted to Xu'an. With you accompanying her, Grandma can rest assured."
Hearing this, Jiang Jiang felt a bit guilty and ashamed.
She knew she had no romantic feelings for Ji Xu'an, yet Old Madam Ji truly believed her words.
Jiang Jiang said nothing aloud, but silently made a promise in her heart. She would definitely take good care of Ji Xu'an, put Ji Xu'an's wishes first in everything, and obediently be a sensible and unobtrusive proper wife.
—
After having lunch with Old Madam Ji at noon, Jiang Jiang was picked up by Chu Yueqi.
Chu Yueqi had clearly dressed up carefully today. She wore fresh, natural makeup. Her already bright and generous features looked even more striking after refinement, attracting many glances from passersby.
She leaned against the car door waiting for Jiang Jiang, even the angle carefully chosen to ensure that Jiang Jiang would see her most perfect side at first glance.
The air was filled with a courting aura—she was just short of circling Jiang Jiang and performing a mating dance.
How to put it? Jiang Jiang wanted to laugh a little. Not because she looked down on Chu Yueqi, but because she found Chu Yueqi rather adorable.
"Sister Chu, your makeup looks beautiful today. It suits you very well," Jiang Jiang praised.
"Really?" Chu Yueqi cleared her throat with feigned restraint, secretly deciding to wear this makeup every time she met Jiang Jiang in the future.
She stepped aside, gesturing for Jiang Jiang to get in the car.
Jiang Jiang hesitated for two seconds, then chose the front passenger seat.
If she sat in the back, wouldn't that be treating Sister Chu like a chauffeur?
Seeing this, Chu Yueqi secretly let out a breath of relief. She had deliberately not opened the door, wanting Jiang Jiang to make her own choice.
Fortunately, Jiang Jiang was still soft-hearted and hadn't rejected her from the very beginning.
The two set off for the shopping mall. The night before, Jiang Jiang had told Chu Yueqi that she was unfamiliar with S City, so along the way Chu Yueqi introduced the buildings and attractions they passed.
"This is the university town area. Besides S University, there are several other universities. Behind S University there's an entire snack street. The food is quite good, affordable and good value. A lot of students like to go there."
As she spoke, Chu Yueqi secretly glanced at Jiang Jiang and said in a teasing tone, "I wonder if President Ji would allow you to eat those things. In her eyes, they might all be junk food."
Jiang Jiang thought that was very likely. Yesterday, when they went to eat fried chicken, Ji Xu'an hadn't ordered anything. Jiang Jiang could tell she didn't like that kind of food.
But Jiang Jiang liked it very much.
So by the same logic, the "junk food" that Ji Xu'an would probably dislike was likely exactly the kind of food Jiang Jiang would enjoy.
Expectation appeared in Jiang Jiang's eyes.
Chu Yueqi curled her lips. "Next time I'll take you to eat there. If President Ji doesn't agree, we'll eat secretly and just not tell her."
Jiang Jiang didn't give a clear answer, only said, "Thank you, Sister Chu."
Chu Yueqi was a little disappointed, but quickly cheered up and continued.
"This side is a plaza. There are a lot of luxury brand stores inside—clothes, jewelry, cosmetics, everything." As she spoke, she changed the subject. "By the way, has Ji Xu'an given you pocket money? How much does she give you each month?"
Without waiting for Jiang Jiang to answer, she smiled and added, "President Ji is so rich. She shouldn't be stingy, right? Did she give you her supplementary card?"
None of that.
Ji Xu'an had never mentioned it, and Jiang Jiang had no intention of asking her for pocket money. After all, they weren't a proper engaged couple. Besides, Ji Xu'an had already been very attentive. Although she hadn't given Jiang Jiang a single cent, she had arranged Jiang Jiang's food, clothing, housing, and transportation very well.
Under Chu Yueqi's gaze, Jiang Jiang pretended to be shy. "She likes buying things for me. She said when I use the things she buys, she feels a sense of accomplishment."
At first, Chu Yueqi's brows furrowed from the sourness of that sentence. Then she reacted—didn't that just mean Ji Xu'an hadn't given her money?
Good, good, good. Next time she saw Ji Xu'an, she would definitely mock her fiercely about this!
"Ji Xu'an's desire for control is indeed quite strong. Maybe it has to do with her personality." Chu Yueqi subtly smeared her rival while elevating herself. "If it were me, I'd definitely transfer all the assets under my name to my wife. A good woman shouldn't have a single cent of private savings."
While praising her for knowing how to cherish a wife, Jiang Jiang secretly wondered whether Ji Xu'an felt her ears burning a little.
By the time they finished talking, they had arrived. Chu Yueqi parked in the parking lot and led Jiang Jiang through the mall's main entrance.
Following behind her, Jiang Jiang curiously looked around.
The mall's interior was circular, with a large open space in the center. Each floor was connected by spiral staircases. The entire building was brightly lit, dominated by a light golden tone—fashionable and clean.
Chu Yueqi was clearly familiar with the place; she had probably come many times. "Let's shop floor by floor. See if there's anything you want to buy."
Jiang Jiang's eyes sparkled as she looked at her. "Sister Chu, you're so kind."
Before Chu Yueqi could smile, Jiang Jiang continued, "I also want to buy a gift for my sister. I'm not sure what to get. Could Sister Chu help me with some suggestions?"
Chu Yueqi's smile froze instantly. That line sounded far too familiar. Wasn't it exactly what she had said to Jiang Jiang last night?
She had used that very reason to persuade Jiang Jiang. Now she couldn't slap herself in the face, could she?
Jiang Jiang could clearly sense Chu Yueqi's mood drop, but she still nodded. "No problem. I think I understand President Ji quite well. I'll definitely be able to choose something she likes."
Perhaps it was just an illusion, but Jiang Jiang felt that her tone carried a hint of gritted teeth.
Setting that aside, Chu Yueqi was indeed a very gentle person. No matter what question Jiang Jiang asked—even some that outsiders might find childish or even a bit foolish—Chu Yueqi answered patiently.
In Chu Yueqi's eyes, Jiang Jiang's little questions were all very cute. It was just that Jiang Jiang couldn't speak three sentences without mentioning Ji Xu'an, and that gave Chu Yueqi a bit of heartache.
There wasn't much worth browsing on the first floor, so the two took the escalator to the second floor.
It was Jiang Jiang's first time riding this kind of escalator. It felt very novel. Like a child, she leaned on the railing and looked down, feeling herself slowly rising upward, her eyes bright with excitement.
Looking at her smiling profile, Chu Yueqi only felt that she was so innocent and unaffected. How could someone be this adorable?
They soon arrived at the second floor. Jiang Jiang felt she hadn't ridden long enough and turned back reluctantly.
Chu Yueqi coaxed her, "It's fine. When we go to the third floor, we can keep riding."
She felt that today's date was still quite perfect. Although Jiang Jiang kept talking about Ji Xu'an, Ji Xu'an herself wasn't present here. Chu Yueqi could completely pretend she hadn't heard.
But her good mood didn't last.
They were only halfway through browsing the second floor when someone abruptly interrupted Chu Yueqi and Jiang Jiang's harmonious date.
"Jiang Jiang!"
To be honest, when Chu Yueqi turned around and clearly saw Ji Heyuan's annoying face, she distinctly felt her vision go dark.
Jiang Jiang looked full of surprise. "Little Yuan, why are you here?"
Ji Heyuan was panting as if she had just run a long-distance race. She couldn't even catch her breath evenly, yet she still retorted, "Why can't I be here? The mall isn't owned by you!"
Jiang Jiang reminded her, "Yesterday you told me that S City is so big, we might not run into each other."
The moment Chu Yueqi heard that, she immediately understood. What coincidence? Ji Heyuan had clearly come on purpose to disrupt them!
Annoying little brat—just as detestable as her sister!
"How would I know you two would come here? You don't seriously think I was deliberately following you, do you?" Ji Heyuan was practically confessing without being asked, giving off a very obvious air of protesting too much.
Jiang Jiang didn't expose her. "Oh, then maybe it's just a coincidence. Since you have a friend here too, little Yuan, Sister Chu and I won't disturb you."
How could Ji Heyuan possibly let her leave just like that?
She had secretly followed Jiang Jiang all the way from the nursing home to the mall. It definitely wasn't just to say hello.
"Shopping is only lively when there are more people. Whatever you want to buy, I can help give suggestions too!" Ji Heyuan patted her chest in assurance.
Chu Yueqi: …
That familiar excuse—wasn't it getting overused?
Jiang Jiang declined, "Wouldn't that be inconvenient, little Yuan? What about your friend?"
As she spoke, her gaze naturally shifted to the woman standing beside Ji Heyuan. The other woman was also looking at her with an inscrutable expression.
"It's fine. Zhouzhou has great taste too. She can give you some useful advice."
Ji Heyuan cleared her throat. "Oh right, I haven't introduced you, have I?"
"This is my good friend, Zheng Zhouzhou."
After saying that, Ji Heyuan pointed at Jiang Jiang. "Zhouzhou, this is the little sister-in-law I told you about, Xie Xiao."
"Sister-in-law?" Zheng Zhouzhou gave Ji Heyuan a meaningful glance. Ji Heyuan blinked at her guiltily.
Yes, she had previously said a lot of bad things about Jiang Jiang in front of Zheng Zhouzhou. But now she felt Jiang Jiang wasn't that annoying. Besides, her sister clearly liked Jiang Jiang very much, so Ji Heyuan had more or less reluctantly acknowledged Jiang Jiang's identity.
Fortunately, Zheng Zhouzhou didn't expose her. Ji Heyuan didn't notice the condescending scrutiny in Zheng Zhouzhou's eyes when she looked at Jiang Jiang. She believed Zheng Zhouzhou was on her side.
When she disliked Jiang Jiang before, Zheng Zhouzhou would join her in criticizing Jiang Jiang. Now that she had accepted Jiang Jiang, Zheng Zhouzhou should also treat her more kindly.
Zheng Zhouzhou wore a smile, but deep in her eyes was a hidden wariness and disgust. That invisible malice was like a venomous snake with fangs, coiling restlessly around Jiang Jiang.
"Hello, Miss Xie. I've long heard of you. Little Yuan often mentions you in front of me." She extended her hand toward Jiang Jiang.
Jiang Jiang slowly returned the handshake. She only felt that Zheng Zhouzhou's fingers were cold and clammy, as if once they touched you, they would never let go.
Jiang Jiang lifted a smile and used a bit of clever force to free her hand. "I've also heard of Miss Zheng."
"I heard that Miss Zheng seems to be… an opera singer?" Jiang Jiang tilted her head uncertainly and spoke softly.
For a brief moment, Zheng Zhouzhou's smile froze. She stared at Jiang Jiang. "Miss Xie, you must be joking."
Ji Heyuan clicked her tongue. "What are you saying? What opera singer? Zhouzhou is a star."
Jiang Jiang smiled apologetically. "I'm sorry, I misspoke. I grew up in the mountains. I don't really understand these things."
Ji Heyuan waved her hand. "It's nothing. You didn't do it on purpose. Zhouzhou won't be angry."
Not only did she not think Jiang Jiang did it on purpose, she even felt more sorry for her. She didn't even know what a celebrity was—what kind of life had she lived before?
Thinking about how Jiang Jiang had previously talked about taking concubines and such, Ji Heyuan guessed that Jiang Jiang's grandmother must have been a very feudal old lady, which was why she had raised Jiang Jiang into a little antique.
While Ji Heyuan was still feeling sorry for Jiang Jiang, she had no idea that Zheng Zhouzhou was already about to explode with anger.
What did she mean, Zhouzhou wouldn't be angry?
Which side was Ji Heyuan on?!
In that instant, Zheng Zhouzhou's vigilance rose to its peak. Just two days ago, Ji Heyuan had clearly hated Xie Xiao. Why had her attitude suddenly changed?
Zheng Zhouzhou felt her heart in turmoil. She stared fixedly at Jiang Jiang, clenching her teeth so hard she could taste blood.
Had she come back for nothing? Was she still unable to win against Xie Xiao?
Or could it be… that Xie Xiao had also been reborn?
Zheng Zhouzhou's breathing grew heavier. She thought of another possibility.
Perhaps the current Xie Xiao was not the same Xie Xiao from her previous life at all!
Although this Xie Xiao still looked just as innocent and harmless, seemingly no different from the one in her memory, Zheng Zhouzhou clearly remembered that in her previous life, Xie Xiao had never had any nickname!
Jiang Jiang—that was the real name of the current Xie Xiao!
In an instant, Zheng Zhouzhou's heart began pounding wildly, unable to calm down for a long time.
She urgently wanted to verify her guess. "Miss Xie grew up in the mountains? My next role is a child raised in the mountains. To be honest, I'm still not quite sure how to act it."
"Could Miss Xie share with us what your past life was like? It would help me understand better."
Jiang Jiang first glanced at her, then lowered her lashes, her tone subdued. "I don't really want to recall the past. I'm sorry, Miss Zheng. I'm afraid I can't help you."
The more she avoided the question, the more Zheng Zhouzhou felt her guess was correct. She was about to continue when Ji Heyuan tugged her arm.
"Alright, Zhouzhou. If Jiang Jiang doesn't want to talk about it, then forget it. If you want to know, you can go see for yourself."
Ji Heyuan also felt puzzled. Zheng Zhouzhou had always been very considerate, never making others uncomfortable in conversation. Why couldn't she read the situation today?
Besides, she had told Zheng Zhouzhou before that Jiang Jiang's grandmother, whom she depended on, had passed away more than two months ago. Jiang Jiang probably still hadn't gotten over it.
Wasn't asking her to recall the past just rubbing salt into her wounds?
Ji Heyuan felt unhappy, unaware that Zheng Zhouzhou was also angry with her.
What was wrong with Ji Heyuan today?
She used to listen to her so well. Today she kept undermining her, not even letting her say one more sentence.
Ji Heyuan's protection of Jiang Jiang only made Zheng Zhouzhou resent Jiang Jiang more. If before she had only wanted to drive Xie Xiao away, to make her disappear far from here, now she had changed her mind. She not only wanted Xie Xiao gone—she wanted her dead!
She wanted Xie Xiao to die under overwhelming condemnation, to die without innocence or dignity!
Jiang Jiang had always been sensitive to malice. She didn't even need to look up to know what expression Zheng Zhouzhou was wearing at that moment.
She must have guessed by now, right?
Jiang Jiang had done it on purpose—deliberately letting Zheng Zhouzhou sense something off about her identity.
After all, from the very beginning, she and Zheng Zhouzhou were destined to fight to the death. Moreover, Zheng Zhouzhou knew Xie Xiao very well. Sooner or later she would notice something suspicious about Jiang Jiang's identity. Rather than hiding it, it was better to let her know from the start.
When facing an enemy stronger than oneself, if one is at a disadvantage, keeping a low profile is the best method. But if one holds the absolute advantage from the beginning, why give the enemy time to grow?
Of course, one should crush the enemy from the start, step on her so thoroughly that she can never rise again—that is the most satisfying.
Jiang Jiang believed that after today, Zheng Zhouzhou would be so anxious she wouldn't eat or sleep well. Perhaps she would even dream of killing her.
In the original story, Zheng Zhouzhou had succeeded. But now, Jiang Jiang would absolutely not give her that chance!
The sharp clash between the two was well hidden. At least Ji Heyuan didn't notice. Chu Yueqi, however, sensed something slightly off. Jiang Jiang seemed not to like this Zheng Zhouzhou very much.
And she also felt Zheng Zhouzhou didn't know how to speak properly. Chu Yueqi favored Jiang Jiang, so she instinctively developed a bit more dislike toward Zheng Zhouzhou.
"With Miss Zheng's personality, it must be quite difficult to get by in the entertainment industry, right?"
Chu Yueqi crossed her arms and looked at Zheng Zhouzhou with a half-smile. "Perhaps I'm just ignorant. What works has Miss Zheng acted in?"
Zheng Zhouzhou was practically an unknown beyond the eighteenth tier. She had only acted in one crudely produced low-budget web drama. As Chu Yueqi implied, she hadn't even truly stepped into the entertainment industry yet.
Otherwise, why would she be so desperate to cling to Ji Heyuan, this gullible benefactor?
Unfortunately, although Ji Heyuan's family was wealthy, the true authority in the Ji family was Ji Xu'an. Ji Xu'an could spend money on Ji Heyuan herself, but she would never agree to let Ji Heyuan use the Ji family's money to promote some minor celebrity.
It would be best to connect directly with Ji Xu'an. As the chairwoman of Linghai Group, the resources in her hands were beyond ordinary imagination.
If she were willing to promote someone, how could she fail to make them famous?
Whenever Zheng Zhouzhou thought about how the things she desperately longed for but could not obtain were so easily within Jiang Jiang's reach, hatred welled up in her heart until it almost bled.
In her previous life it had been Ji Heyuan. In this life it had become Ji Xu'an. The Ji sisters—over two lifetimes, neither had escaped the curse named Xie Xiao!
Zheng Zhouzhou was seething, not even bothering to respond to Chu Yueqi.
Because Chu Yueqi had spent many years abroad, Zheng Zhouzhou didn't recognize her. If she had known that Chu Yueqi's family background was not much worse than Ji Heyuan's, she probably wouldn't have ignored her so completely.
When Zheng Zhouzhou remained silent, Ji Heyuan felt embarrassed on her behalf. But between Zheng Zhouzhou and Chu Yueqi, Ji Heyuan clearly sided with Zheng Zhouzhou.
"Zhouzhou has just started in the industry. She's still young, with limitless possibilities. How would someone born in Rome understand her effort and hardship?"
Chu Yueqi was not swayed. "Oh, so that means no works?"
Ji Heyuan flushed. "You—!"
Jiang Jiang interrupted her. "Let's all take a step back. Don't argue, or others will laugh at us."
"Lott Yuan, Sister Chu still needs to accompany me to choose a gift. Do you want to come?"
Ji Heyuan's attention was immediately drawn away. "Who are you buying a gift for?"
Jiang Jiang cast her a shy glance, perfectly embodying a young girl in love. "Who do you think?"
Ji Heyuan pretended to realize. "Oh, for my sister?"
She looked smugly at Chu Yueqi. "Hey~ Chu, I misjudged you. I didn't expect you to be such a helpful, good person."
Chu Yueqi: aggrieved but unable to refute.
"I'm coming too! I definitely understand my sister better than someone like Chu." After speaking, Ji Heyuan even deliberately bumped Chu Yueqi aside with her shoulder.
Chu Yueqi: !!
Crude barbarian!
As expected, anyone surnamed Ji was annoying!
In the end, the four of them went together. Ji Heyuan and Chu Yueqi flanked Jiang Jiang on either side, which made Zheng Zhouzhou seem especially redundant.
It wasn't that Zheng Zhouzhou hadn't tried to change the situation. But whenever she tried to speak to Ji Heyuan, Jiang Jiang would always find a reason to divert Ji Heyuan's attention.
Ji Heyuan also seemed bewitched. She had clearly disliked Xie Xiao before, yet now she was like a dog raised by her, listening to whatever she said.
How could Zheng Zhouzhou not know Jiang Jiang was doing it on purpose?
She was now completely certain that there was something strange about this Xie Xiao!
Zheng Zhouzhou watched coldly, even viciously thinking—did Ji Xu'an know that her own younger sister was currying favor with her fiancée?
Ji Heyuan's wife from her previous life had become her sister-in-law in this one. If the two of them ended up together, it would be blatant incest.
If that news were exposed, the Ji family would become the laughingstock of the entire upper class!
Ji Heyuan had no idea that Zheng Zhouzhou had already imagined her future downfall. She harbored no inappropriate feelings toward Jiang Jiang. The only reason she hovered around her was to prevent Chu Yueqi from getting any chance to show attentiveness.
In truth, Jiang Jiang hadn't decided what to buy for Ji Xu'an. It was merely an excuse to brush off Chu Yueqi and Ji Heyuan.
But Ji Heyuan was very enthusiastic. "Buy a pair of cufflinks. They're practical and hard to go wrong with—very suitable for my sister."
Of course Jiang Jiang listened to her.
They entered a jewelry store. While Jiang Jiang was looking at cufflinks, Zheng Zhouzhou somehow squeezed over.
She quickly called out in Jiang Jiang's ear, "Xie Xiao."
Jiang Jiang deliberately paused for two seconds before turning her head. "Miss Zheng, did you call me?"
Zheng Zhouzhou smiled. "Nothing. I just wanted you to look at this pair of cufflinks—they're quite beautiful too."
She stepped closer and casually added, "Miss Xie, when I called you just now, you didn't respond at all. I almost thought I remembered wrong, that your name wasn't Xie Xiao."
Zheng Zhouzhou stared intently at Jiang Jiang. Unfortunately, Jiang Jiang showed no sign of guilt. She didn't even avert her gaze for a moment. "I was thinking about what style she likes and didn't hear you clearly."
Zheng Zhouzhou feigned curiosity. "By the way, why does Miss Xie call President Ji 'sister'?"
Seeing Chu Yueqi and Ji Heyuan both looking at her, Zheng Zhouzhou added calmly, "Because I always hear little Yuan call President Ji 'sister' too. It feels a bit strange."
Chu Yueqi and Ji Heyuan both turned to Jiang Jiang, only to see her face flush red in an instant. "You'd have to ask her about that."
Seeing the topic drifting into unspeakable territory, Ji Heyuan quickly interrupted Zheng Zhouzhou before she could continue. "What's strange about it? I don't think it's strange at all. Jiang Jiang is younger than my sister to begin with."
She couldn't let others know that this was her sister's special preference, could she?
She absolutely couldn't let Jiang Jiang embarrass her sister outside!
Ji Heyuan thought she had smoothed it over. Zheng Zhouzhou, however, was once again so angry she wanted to kill someone.
The third time!
Was Ji Heyuan deliberately opposing her today?!
Zheng Zhouzhou forced a smile. "So President Ji likes raising her girlfriend like a younger sister."
Ji Heyuan's heart sank. Before she could try to patch things up again, Jiang Jiang spoke first. "Matters of the boudoir are not to be shared with outsiders."
"But speaking of which, Miss Zheng seems very concerned about the relationship between me and her." Jiang Jiang cast Ji Heyuan a faint glance, her tone subtly meaningful. "If I didn't know you were Xiao Yuan's friend and not acquainted with her, I would almost suspect you secretly have a crush on her."
Zheng Zhouzhou hadn't expected her thoughts to be seen through, nor that Jiang Jiang would expose them so directly. There was no evidence—had Jiang Jiang gone mad?!
"Miss Xie." Zheng Zhouzhou immediately put on an angry expression. "You are Xiao Yuan's sister-in-law, so I respect you. But that doesn't give you the right to slander me!"
"My relationship with President Ji is perfectly innocent. On what grounds are you spreading rumors about me?"
Ji Heyuan also frowned tightly, looking at Jiang Jiang with disapproval.
Jiang Jiang reacted quickly. Her eyelashes trembled, and tears rolled down at once.
She cried so suddenly that the other three hadn't even processed it before her eyes were already red.
"I'm sorry, Miss Zheng." Jiang Jiang's face was full of apology; no one could doubt her sincerity.
"I was being overly sensitive." She bit her lip, her voice trembling with sobs. "She's too outstanding. I'm always afraid I'm not good enough for her. She has many admirers. If it weren't for our engagement, she might not have chosen me at all."
"I'm so afraid of losing her."
Jiang Jiang cried delicately, large tears falling one after another. Her eyes were washed bright and clear with moisture, easily stirring pity and sympathy.
It was Ji Heyuan's first time seeing Jiang Jiang cry. Even when she had misunderstood her before, Jiang Jiang's eyes had only reddened slightly—not like now, when the tears wouldn't stop.
How heartbroken must she be to cry so openly in public, disregarding her image?
Ji Heyuan had already forgotten her earlier displeasure at hearing Jiang Jiang question Zheng Zhouzhou. Only one thought remained in her mind.
Jiang Jiang really loves her sister!
She truly, deeply loves her!!
Ji Heyuan was full of shock. Chu Yueqi, however, felt her heart ache unbearably. She took out a tissue and handed it to Jiang Jiang, then launched into a scolding at Zheng Zhouzhou.
"If you hadn't kept bringing up Ji Xu'an, how would Jiang Jiang have misunderstood?"
"I actually think Jiang Jiang makes sense. You've been sowing discord this whole time. What exactly are you trying to do?"
Chu Yueqi let out a cold laugh. "You say you're not interested in Ji Xu'an? Then dare you swear it? Swear that you will never deliberately appear in front of her. Wherever she is, you will avoid it. And even if you can't avoid it, you will never take the initiative to speak to her?"
Zheng Zhouzhou froze.
How could she possibly make such a vow?!
Her goal had always been Ji Xu'an!
Unconsciously, Zheng Zhouzhou looked at Jiang Jiang, who was being shielded behind Chu Yueqi and quietly shedding tears.
Sensing her gaze, Jiang Jiang lifted her eyes and glanced at her, the corner of her lips curving faintly.
In an instant, rage surged to Zheng Zhouzhou's head, her vision darkening in waves.
Jiang Jiang had done it on purpose!!
—
Author's Note:
Ji Heyuan: I ship it, I ship it!
Ji Xu'an, who didn't appear but was mentioned constantly: Why do I keep sneezing today? Is the air conditioning too cold? Did I catch a cold?
—
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