Chapter 27: Shoulder Pillow
This translation was originally posted on https://love4baihe.blogspot.com please read it there. and check out other stories too.
The bright light of incandescent lamps illuminated the quiet corridor, and the heavy footsteps of a man echoed through.
Wei Qingyu looked at Chen Linji walking towards her as if seeing the long-awaited hope arriving.
"Uncle Chen," Wei Qingyu nodded slightly.
Chen Linji: "Miss Wei, it's really been a long time."
Chen Linji's voice remained as deep as ever, bringing some comfort to Wei Qingyu.
She nodded, realizing it had indeed been a long time since they last met. She hadn't even been able to see this uncle whom she often saw in her childhood, at her parents' funeral.
Chen Linji explained, "I'm truly sorry, Miss Wei. It took me six months to get in touch with you. At that time, I was at the Y Company branch abroad, and when the Wei family encountered trouble, that branch also faced some difficulties, so it was not until now that I could come."
Wei Qingyu never blamed Chen Linji throughout.
She understood that under the shadow of the Ji family, those who had close ties with the Wei family in the past would inevitably be suppressed by him. Chen Linji, who was second only to Ji Qingyun in his relationship with the Wei family, would also be targeted by Ji Qingyun from the shadows.
Wei Qingyu looked at the tiredness on Chen Linji's face, knowing that he had also had a hard time in the past six months under Ji Qingyun's constraints.
But since he had contacted her now and had boldly spent nearly two hundred million yuan to buy the Wei family's villa, it showed that he had already passed through the danger.
This is already good.
Wei Qingyu smiled slightly at Chen Linji and said, "Uncle, you're really too polite. You can still call me Qingyu."
Chen Linji nodded, "Okay, Qingyu."
"Although Mr. Wei is no longer with us, I have always remembered the kindness of the Wei family towards me. Rest assured, in the future, I will definitely help you. So now, Uncle wants to consult your opinion first. Do you have any plans for your future?"
Wei Qingyu replied, "I want to get back the things my parents left for me."
Though her voice was soft, her tone was firm.
Chen Linji nodded approvingly, “Mm, that's something Uncle definitely wants to do for you."
"It's just that Ji Qingyun's methods are too despicable. I've investigated. He seized control of the Wei family's property by claiming that the heir was still underage, and assumed himself as the guardian managing it on behalf of the heir."
As Chen Linji spoke, disdain and anger flickered in his eyes. He hadn't expected someone to act so deceitfully.
This translation was originally posted on https://love4baihe.blogspot.com please read it there. and check out other stories too.
One moment, he was chatting and laughing with Mr. and Mrs. Wei, with apparent deep affection. The next moment, he instantly turned hostile, revealing his true colors.
More than ten years of friendship, all outweighed by money and interests, truly despicable to the extreme.
"I know this," Wei Qingyu nodded calmly, her expression serene. This incident marked the first time she had been deceived by Ji Qingyun.
She looked at Chen Linji's hesitant gaze and asked, "So we shouldn't act rashly yet, right? Uncle Chen?"
"That's right," Chen Linji nodded. "I found out that over the past six months, Ji Qingyun has been secretly renaming and reshuffling the companies under the original Wei Group, packaging them as a completely different entity, attempting to gradually diminish the weight of the inheritance. He's trying to make what will come into your hands in two years an empty shell."
"But rest assured, Qingyu, my company may have suffered a setback on the surface, but it's still very solid internally. Right now, Ji Qingyun is in the light, and we are in the dark. Many things are easier to handle, and when necessary, I will make him fail."
Chen Linji had learned from his clashes with Ji Qingyun over the past six months. He didn't alarm anyone when he returned to the country. Even his identity at the auction was that of a reliable friend completely unconnected to the upper circles of City A.
Chen Linji wanted to repay the Wei family for their kindness and ensure that the deceased could rest in peace underground.
However, as he looked at the girl standing before him, the plan he had long prepared got stuck in his throat, and he couldn't bring himself to say it.
The warm yellow light of the vending machine fell on the girl's shoulder, her slender arm casting a thin shadow on the ground, resembling a newly sprouted bamboo.
The fullness and vitality seen a few years ago had vanished from the girl's cheeks, leaving only a coldness that the turquoise eyes couldn't conceal.
After much consideration, Chen Linji couldn't bear to tell Wei Qingyu, "So, Qingyu, for the next two years, Uncle needs you to endure. Considering the current situation, Uncle can't take you out of the Ji family yet."
Wei Qingyu nodded in understanding. "I understand."
She wasn't the type to forget herself just because she had someone to rely on. She possessed a maturity beyond her peers and understood the principle of biding one's time.
Chen Linji couldn't help but feel a pang of heartache and helplessness as he looked at Wei Qingyu's sensible demeanor. He gently ruffled her hair and said, "Qingyu, I'm really sorry about this morning. Binzi was indeed reckless."
The man's broad palm, exuding the unique warmth of an Alpha, rested on Wei Qingyu's head, reminding her of Ji Xiao.
Wei Qingyu shook her head and said, "It's okay. Neither of us got hurt."
Upon hearing Wei Qingyu mention "us," Chen Linji became more cautious. "Qingyu, there's something I must remind you of. The Ji family is dangerous, and you need to be extremely careful. Ji Qingyun is not a good person, and Ji Xiao is no angel either. In the future, don't let your kindness lead you into the abyss."
"Moreover, Ji Xiao is a debauched and frivolous scoundrel. Qingyu, if you ever get bullied by her, you must tell Uncle. I will definitely make Uncle Binzi seek justice for you."
Wei Qingyu frowned slightly as she listened to Chen Linji's assessment of Ji Xiao. She knew he cared about her and didn't argue, simply nodding lightly. “Mm, I'll remember."
Seeing Wei Qingyu's fragile appearance, Chen Linji still couldn't help but worry. He added, "Qingyu, don't be afraid. Uncle will definitely leave no traces behind. Moreover, being able to hold Ji Xiao accountable will also be a restraint on Ji Qingyun in the future."
Upon hearing this, waves of unrest stirred in Wei Qingyu's eyes. Suddenly, an unexpected unease settled in her chest when Chen Linji proposed taking action against Ji Xiao.
Wei Qingyu reminded him, "Uncle, I understand your intentions, but we mustn't involve minors in any way. We are not like Ji Qingyun. It's best not to do such things."
Her tone was calm, devoid of any emotion.
Chen Linji pondered for a moment upon hearing her words and nodded. “Mm... You're right. Uncle didn't consider it thoroughly this time. You're correct; we shouldn't do such things."
Upon hearing this, Wei Qingyu breathed a sigh of relief. She nodded slightly and said, "Uncle, I've been out for too long. It wouldn't be good if the Ji father and daughter noticed something wrong."
"Go back quickly," Chen Linji nodded, taking out a piece of paper from his pocket. "This is my private number. If you need anything, you can contact me anytime, especially if you encounter danger. Make sure to contact me immediately."
"Okay, goodbye, Uncle," Wei Qingyu took the note from Chen Linji and casually bought a bottle of soda from the vending machine before heading back the way she came.
The corridor was quiet, the cold tiles reflecting the bright light, making the girl's figure appear even more solitary.
Chen Linji watched Wei Qingyu walk away, his gaze deep.
During Wei Qingyu's absence, the auction continued as usual.
The auctioneer's voice, adept at stirring emotions, filled the venue. With the Wei family villa auctioned off first, the subsequent items fetched excellent prices.
Ji Xiao watched lazily as the staff on stage prepared the final item. Out of the corner of her eye, she saw Wei Qingyu return.
She discreetly observed Wei Qingyu's much more relaxed expression compared to before, finally feeling relieved as her heart that had been hanging just now finally went down.
When Wei Qingyu settled her skirt and sat down, Ji Xiao propped her chin and mockingly complained, “You're back?”
When I asked you to buy a drink, did you go to the factory to produce it?"
"I'm not familiar with that vending machine, and there were some issues," Wei Qingyu explained calmly, handing her the soda.
"You're so clumsy, can't even use a vending machine," Ji Xiao teased mercilessly, but her actions were gentle as she took the bottle from Wei Qingyu.
The chilled soda bottle accumulated a layer of fine droplets in her palm, still cool with the warmth from the hands that had just held it.
Ji Xiao swiftly unscrewed the cap and took a sip, instantly feeling her heart, which had been forced to endure Ji Qingyun's lengthy apology, calm down.
At that moment, the final item on stage was also ready.
The host stood at the microphone and announced to everyone, "Next up is the last item of this auction, and it's a highlight."
"It's a Lilac Sapphire Brooch from the X Royal Family of Country X, dating back to the 1990s!"
As the host's words fell, the glass display case that had been covered with red velvet finally revealed its true appearance.
A delicate rose-shaped brooch appeared in everyone's sight.
A rare lilac sapphire was set on the exquisite white gold flower base, accompanied by dazzling diamonds, making it breathtakingly beautiful at first glance.
"...Starting bid for this brooch is two million two hundred thousand, with increments of two hundred thousand."
As the host finished speaking, a woman sitting in the front row on the far left raised her hand.
Then, more and more people raised their hands to bid, creating an atmosphere even livelier than during the Wei family auction earlier.
"Wow, this item is even hotter than the house," Ji Xiao exclaimed, watching the bustling scene.
"This brooch is excellent in both gemstone cutting and jewelry setting. It's top-notch even by today's standards. Most importantly, the color of this gemstone is very rare, a faint purple, transparent, and exceptionally beautiful when light falls on it. It was sold when the Florence Gemstone Gallery went bankrupt last year," Wei Qingyu explained softly to Ji Xiao as she sat beside her.
Ji Xiao was somewhat surprised that Wei Qingyu took the initiative to talk to her and asked curiously, "How do you know all this?"
"I've watched documentaries and had the privilege of attending the last exhibition of the Florence Gemstone Gallery," Wei Qingyu replied softly, her tone tinged with regret.
She didn't want to keep the brooch for herself, but she hoped it would end up in the hands of someone who truly appreciated it. However, as she looked around at the bidders, she couldn't find anyone who seemed to understand its true value.
Listening to Wei Qingyu's words, Ji Xiao couldn't help but recall the brooch she wore not long ago when she went to pay her respects. Although it was not as exquisite as this one, it had the fortune of being complemented by a beautiful woman, making it even more charming in terms of temperament.
What would Wei Qingyu look like wearing this brooch?
Ji Xiao watched as the woman in the front row bid three million and two hundred thousand for the brooch, and inexplicably raised the sign that was placed by Ji Qingyun's leg.
The host immediately announced, "Over here, Miss Ji, three million four hundred thousand!"
A name that hadn't appeared suddenly sounded out, and everyone cast surprised looks at Ji Xiao.
Even Wei Qingyu's eyes couldn't hide her unease.
Seeing her daughter raise her hand, Ji Qingyun immediately asked, "Xiaoxiao, do you like this?"
"Yeah," Ji Xiao replied perfunctorily, without even looking at Ji Qingyun.
Ji Qingyun just thought Ji Xiao's anger towards him hadn't subsided yet, so he quickly coaxed, "Then go ahead and bid, no matter the price, Dad will pay it for you."
Hearing this, Ji Xiao raised her eyebrows slightly, finally willing to share a bit of attention with this pitiful daughter-slave.
She looked at Ji Qingyun's pleasing and indulgent smile, her eyes curved, and said, "Then I'll thank Dad in advance!"
Ji Qingyun, still unaware of the seriousness of the situation, smiled even more brightly, "As long as Xiaoxiao is happy."
At that moment, a woman sitting on the side of the front row raised her paddle when everyone hesitated again.
The host immediately announced, "Miss Sun bids three million six hundred and sixty thousand."
Ji Xiao, unwilling to be outdone, also raised her paddle.
How could Miss Sun tolerate the jewelry, originally intended to be hers, falling into someone else's hands? Following Ji Xiao's lead, she also raised her paddle.
Back and forth between the two, the auction price of the lilac gemstone brooch soared to nearly four million.
Everyone's eyes widened in astonishment. The impatience in Miss Sun's eyes grew stronger, and she directly declared, "I bid four million four hundred and forty thousand!"
The room erupted in commotion instantly. This was effectively doubling the original price of the brooch.
Wei Qingyu glanced incredulously at the numbers displayed on the big screen, knowing full well that with the escalating bidding price, four million had already exceeded the true value of the brooch.
"It's already too high, it's not worth it," whispered Wei Qingyu to Ji Xiao beside her.
"Don't you think it's a waste for this thing to fall into that person's hands?" Ji Xiao pointed to the woman sitting in the front row.
Wei Qingyu looked at the woman's imperious demeanor and fell silent.
Indeed, this brooch was the last thing that should belong to someone like her.
"There's nothing worth or not worth it. It's worth it only in the hands of the right person," Ji Xiao said softly.
Just then, the host in front knocked the gavel, and Wei Qingyu felt her heart also being struck by it.
She gazed into Ji Xiao's eyes, and in those golden-orange irises, she saw one word: You.
As the host was about to strike the final blow, Ji Xiao raised her placard and declared, "I bid five million."
After all, much of the money in her family now was inherited from Wei Qingyu's parents, which also counts as borrowing flowers to present to Buddha.
*借花献佛" (jiè huā xiàn fó) refers to doing a favor using someone else's resources/recycling gifts.
The audience was stunned into silence, and the host quickly looked to Ji Qingyun for confirmation.
To please her daughter, Ji Qingyun nodded approvingly at the host, even if his heart was bleeding inside.
Seeing this, the host immediately took control and said, "Miss Ji bids five million, which is indeed a hefty price. Is there anyone else willing to bid?"
This was directed at Miss Sun, who hesitated several times but didn't raise her paddle again.
Her face, which had been filled with pride just moments ago, was now full of anger at being unexpectedly outbid.
After counting down three times, the host struck the gavel in his hand and said, "Congratulations, Miss Ji, for acquiring this precious lilac gemstone brooch!"
As dusk fell, the sky over the end of the auction was shrouded in darkness.
Everyone present that afternoon witnessed the extravagant indulgence of Ji Qingyun towards her daughter.
The car they took back had already been switched by the driver to Ji Xiao's favorite Maybach. The sleek black car glided through the streets, blending into the night.
Inside the car, it was particularly quiet. Wei Qingyu glanced at the lights and neon signs outside the window, catching sight of Ji Xiao's face reflected on the glass once again.
Not sure if she was tired from confirming a series of auction procedures earlier, Ji Xiao leaned back in her seat and dozed off.
Wei Qingyu watched Ji Xiao vigilantly, as she accepted a friend request from Chen Linji that had just come in.
The car swiftly traversed a semicircular turn on the overpass, and Wei Qingyu felt her body tilt slightly to one side due to centrifugal force. Soon after, she felt the weight of Ji Xiao's head resting on her shoulder.
Ji Xiao, who had fallen asleep, leaned against Wei Qingyu's shoulder.
Wei Qingyu gazed at Ji Xiao's peaceful sleeping face, her eyes heavy with emotion.
She couldn't understand why she had defended Ji Xiao after Chen Linji made that suggestion.
Not long ago, she had wanted nothing more than to kill Ji Xiao herself, with the pair of scissors still resting by her bedside.
As the car smoothly exited the highway, the bright streetlights illuminated the dim interior of the car.
Wei Qingyu straightened her posture again, with Ji Xiao now sleeping on her shoulder.
Author's Note:
I also want sister's shoulder, wu wu wu.
