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墨書 Inktalez
"Dad, what are you doing here?" Jin Chengyan had already guessed Jin Zhongshu's purpose for coming, which was likely related to the incident involving Ruan Shengyu and Jono at the awards ceremony.
That news had long since made its way back from C City. Jin Zhongshu's decision not to go to C City himself showed his composure, which was why he was here now.
Jin Zhongshu looked coldly at Jin Chengyan before turning his gaze more gently toward Jono. "Jono, how is your health? You were seriously injured last time, and you’re not resting properly at home. Your mother-in-law has been saying she wants to come take care of you. If your health is poor, what will happen when it comes time to have children?"
Jono opened her mouth to respond but found herself at a loss for words.
Jin Zhongshu's sudden appearance and his immediate inquiry about her health caught her off guard.
In truth, the only injury she sustained during the kidnapping was to her head; everything else was fine.
Moreover, some time had passed since then, so Jin Zhongshu should have known she was okay. Now, in front of an outsider, his question seemed intended for show.
So Jono chose to respond with silence. After all, they knew she was feeling down, especially after being treated poorly by her husband and his lover; it was no surprise that she wasn't in a good mood.
Jin Zhongshu didn’t seem to mind her silence and appeared quite understanding as he turned to the man sitting next to him. "I forgot to introduce you. This is my wife, Jono. Jono, come here; let me introduce you."
Jin Zhongshu waved at Jono, signaling her to come over.
He intended to introduce her to that middle-aged man.
To be honest, the middle-aged man did not appear friendly at all. He had a dark demeanor that enveloped him in an aura of gloom. Although he wore glasses and looked refined, he reminded Jono of the kind of gang leaders depicted in Hong Kong films.
She instinctively glanced at Jin Chengyan. It was a habit she hadn’t lost—looking to him for help when faced with the unknown.
Seeing Jono's pleading gaze, Jin Chengyan felt a sense of relief in his heart. She still relied on him, didn’t she?
But in the next moment, Jono withdrew his gaze and walked towards Jin Zhongshu.
Jin Chengyan felt somewhat defeated. After all, when he had asked Jin Zhongshu earlier, he hadn’t received a clear answer either. What was Liu Mingzhang doing here?
The Jin Family had long since lost their underworld influence. Back in the day, Jin Zhongshu had carved a bloody path through the high seas with his wife, Melancholy, and the dark forces behind the Jin Family were not to be underestimated.
However, after that, Jin Zhongshu gradually dismantled those forces, believing that for the family to endure, they could no longer engage in illegal activities.
At that time, Liu Mingzhang was on par with the Jin Family in terms of underworld power, but his influence did not extend to Qin Cheng.
Now, Liu Mingzhang appeared and sought out Jin Zhongshu. Moreover, it was Jin Zhongshu who brought him to Jin Mansion and even wanted to introduce Jono to Liu Mingzhang. The relationships involved were anything but simple.
“Jono, this is your Uncle Liu, my rival and friend from my youth. Now, he is also Shengyu's godfather,” Jin Zhongshu said with a smile as he introduced Jono.
At that moment, Liu Mingzhang also looked at Jono with a slight smile, the kind of warmth an elder shows towards a younger generation.
However, Jono felt no warmth or kindness at all.
Her back stiffened, and the smile on her face froze! Jin Zhongshu was introducing her to a man who was Ruan Shengyu's godfather!
Jono knew how much Jin Zhongshu had despised Ruan Shengyu in the past. Now he could actually utter “Shengyu,” which indicated that this Uncle Liu held a significant status that could not be overlooked; they would have to make concessions.
Jono chuckled lightly, her clear eyes revealing a hint of helplessness. Now even Jin Zhongshu was like this, wanting her to give up pursuing the matter. Unexpectedly, Ruan Shengyu had such powerful backing; everyone seemed eager to plead on his behalf!
She turned to look at Jin Chengyan. He must know about this; Ruan Shengyu had such a substantial background that he had initially suggested she let it go and allow the matter to pass.
But as a husband, could Jin Chengyan really just stand by and watch his wife being bullied without taking any action?
Jono felt a chill deep within her heart.
She turned away, no longer looking at Jin Chengyan.
She had always fought her battles alone, with no one to help her.
“Uncle Liu, hello! I’m really sorry, but your goddaughter is currently in the hospital and can’t come to pay her respects!” Jono’s tone was sharp; how could she be gentle at this moment?
“You—” Liu Mingzhang’s expression darkened immediately. Perhaps out of respect for Jin Zhongshu, he didn’t truly show Jono any displeasure.
Jin Zhongshu shot Jono a glance. He was a man over fifty, full of honor, and his look was meant to convey that she should know when to bend and when to stand firm.
But how could Jono endure it? She had already suffered so much from Jin Chengyan, and now an outsider was making her feel even worse!
“I’m feeling a bit unwell, so I’ll head upstairs first.” If there was no politeness, then so be it. After saying that, Jono went upstairs. She needed to find that boring Contract, tear it up, and divorce Jin Chengyan!
Her mind was set on leaving, unaware of what was happening downstairs.
Jin Chengyan’s face was grim. He hadn’t shown any smiles these past few days; if he could smile at a time like this, he must have been quite carefree.
“Ayan, your Uncle Liu is staying in Qin Cheng. When you have time, take him around to see the sights. I’m getting old; I get winded after just a few steps. I can’t keep up with you young folks.” Jin Zhongshu wasn’t actually unwell; he was determined to pass Liu Mingzhang off onto Jin Chengyan.
Jin Chengyan was still absorbed in the fact that Liu Mingzhang was Ruan Shengyu’s godfather. How could he not have known? Why had Ruan Shengyu never mentioned it to him?
"Alright." Jin Chengyan was indeed a person of deep foresight. He knew that his father wouldn't arrange things without reason, so he could only agree for now. As for what would come next, he would find out more later.
Liu Mingzhang looked at Jin Chengyan with admiration and suddenly said to Jin Zhongshu, "My goddaughter has been talking about the man she likes in front of me. Seeing him today, he truly is impressive. Her taste in men is quite good."
Jin Zhongshu replied, "..." He really didn't want to talk to this person.
He had just introduced Jono as Jin Chengyan's wife, yet now Liu Mingzhang was saying that Ruan Shengyu liked him! Was he becoming more and more arrogant just because his power was growing and no one could restrain him anymore?
Jin Chengyan wanted to say something but was silenced by Jin Zhongshu's glare!
So he could only remain silent.
Liu Mingzhang sat there for only a few minutes, probably because he felt his purpose had been achieved, so he left. As he departed, he patted Jin Chengyan on the shoulder in an appreciative manner, which made Jin Chengyan feel quite uncomfortable.
Once Liu Mingzhang was gone, Jin Chengyan finally spoke up, "Dad, why did you bring someone like him here?"
"Hmph!" Jin Zhongshu snorted coldly. "Do you think I want to have anything to do with him?"
Jin Chengyan was taken aback.
Oh, Ruan Shengyu.
"Tonight, come with me to meet your Grandpa Yan." Jin Zhongshu had a very good relationship with Yan Beiting, one that transcended the typical father-son bond. Unfortunately, the relationship between Jin Chengyan and Yan Beiting had been tumultuous in recent years.
Hearing this, Jin Chengyan couldn't help but furrow his brow.
"You have to go, whether you want to or not. You've created this mess yourself, and now you expect me and Grandpa Yan to help clean it up. Do you think you're so impressive?" Jin Zhongshu felt anger rising as he spoke about the situation.
How could a single Ruan Shengyu be so difficult to deal with? Just send her to the authorities, and her fate would no longer concern the Jin Family.
But now, it turned out that Ruan Shengyu had a powerful figure backing her—a black market godfather. It was utterly ridiculous! Did this godfather just fall from the sky? If she was that capable, why not ascend to heaven instead?
Jin Chengyan could sense his father's fury, knowing much of it stemmed from that man they had just encountered.
"In the past, it was just your personal grudge with Jono and Ruan Shengyu. Now, it's a matter for the entire Jin Family. I cannot let one Ruan Shengyu jeopardize everything we've built! Be prepared!" Jin Zhongshu stood up, and for the first time, Jin Chengyan noticed the streaks of white in his father's hair—he was aging.
But did Liu Mingzhang really have such a formidable presence?
"Ayan, our Jin Family has long since moved past that way of life. If we truly engage in a battle with them, we have little chance of winning," Jin Zhongshu said earnestly.
Jin Chengyan wanted to argue that A-Shan also had a mysterious team at her disposal. Even if it came down to a confrontation, the Jin Family might not be at a disadvantage!
However, those words remained unspoken.
Just like he sought a compromise, his father did not wish to provoke Liu Mingzhang at this moment; it would benefit no one. A conflict would only lead to mutual destruction, allowing others to take advantage of their losses.
If it came down to it, it would be a contest of financial resources, intelligence, and manpower—long and costly, resulting in casualties. That was the least desirable approach.
"Alright, I understand," Jin Chengyan nodded.
The Yan Family and the Jin Family had supported each other over the years, which was why both families had stood strong in Qin Cheng for so long. Now that Jin Zhongshu considered reaching out to Grandpa Yan, it was likely due to the longstanding bond between their families.
Thinking back to the near fight with Yan Beiting earlier, Jin Chengyan felt a headache coming on.
Half an hour later, Jin Chengyan returned upstairs and found Jono was not in the room but rummaging through things in the study. The place was a mess, and it was clear she had done it on purpose, scattering everything around.
"Jono, what are you looking for?"
"Can't you tell? If I find that Contract and destroy it, we can get a divorce," Jono replied, still angry. She had vented most of her frustration in this room, but it didn’t seem to help much.
Jin Chengyan rubbed his temples.
"How long are you going to make a scene? Ruan Shengyu is on the verge of death. Even if you have a huge grudge, shouldn’t it be time to let it go? Besides, you have nothing to lose now! Can't you both take a step back?" Jin Chengyan couldn't help but feel exasperated by Jono's antics.
Jono put down the book she was holding and looked at him. "Am I the one making a scene?"
"Aren't you and Jasper the ones causing trouble? Did you ever think about my position when you revealed those audio and video clips in front of so many people? I'm the president of the Jin Family. Do you know how much the stock price dropped after everything went public today? How much work I have to do to make up for those losses? Can’t you consult me before making such decisions next time?"
"There won't be a next time. Once we divorce, there won't be another chance. You don't need to worry anymore. You can be with whoever you want from now on."
Jin Chengyan hated hearing those two words; he really despised them. He stepped forward and grabbed Jono's wrist.
"Jono, I'm telling you one last time—do not say the word 'divorce' again!"
"Why not? Just because you say we should stay together doesn’t mean I have to! I..."
Jin Chengyan pulled Jono into his arms tightly.
Jono's words caught in his throat, "I can't lose you, alright? My life can't go on without you! To me, you are no longer just a party in a contract; you are my wife, Jin Chengyan, the person I want to spend my life with! I know you care about Ruan Shengyu; you think I still love her."
"But Jono, she has been in my life for so many years. She feels like family to me. If I were to be with you now, it would mean completely abandoning her. How is that any different from being a scumbag? I was wrong; I should have ended things with her before starting something with you! But the mistake has already been made, and now I can only find a way that causes the least harm to both of you."
"Jono, when I found out you were kidnapped, I wanted nothing more than to find you immediately. I was hurt too; my wounds reopened. But I couldn't rest, knowing you were still in danger. No matter how much blood I lost, it didn't matter. All I wanted was to find you. I don't know when it started, but you've become the woman I care about because you are my wife."
Jin Chengyan's words reached Jono's ears, piercing straight to her heart.
His first confession, his first plea.
Jono fell silent, quiet in his embrace. She wanted to break free from him, but her limbs felt unresponsive, as if she was destined to forgive Jin Chengyan.
Yet when she closed her eyes, the image of Ruan Shengyu relentlessly pounded in her mind.
"Jin Chengyan..." Jono spoke up but could only call out his name. What else was there to say? It seemed they had run out of words between them. "I'm so tired."
Jono gently pushed Jin Chengyan away; her eyes were already red-rimmed, yet no tears would fall.
He reached out to wipe away her tears, but she flinched away.
...
Yan Beiting returned to Yan Family Mansion after receiving a call from his grandfather and unexpectedly found Jin Zhongshu and Jin Chengyan there.
Having parted ways unhappily with Jin Chengyan earlier that day, he wasn't willing to give him any friendly acknowledgment now. However, since his elder Jin Zhongshu was present, despite his anger, he still greeted him.
Jin Chengyan was naturally angry. Yan Beiting had been stirring trouble, first with Ruan Shengyu and now with Jono. How could he swallow this insult?
The two young men glared at each other, and if it weren't for the elders sitting nearby, they would have likely stormed out by now.
Their parents seemed unfazed by the scene, continuing their own conversations without intervening.
"Uncle Yan, I believe you must have heard that Liu Mingzhang has returned," Jin Zhongshu said, holding a teacup in his hands. His gaze darkened slightly at the mention of Liu Mingzhang.
Old Master Yan's expression also soured upon hearing the name, clearly reluctant to discuss it.
"I heard he came back quietly, but his ship is docked at the Yan Family's pier."
"We thought we had driven the Liu family out of Qin Cheng for good," Jin Zhongshu reminisced with a hint of regret. "Who would have thought…"
"People are always unwilling to accept defeat. They will go to great lengths to obtain what isn't theirs," the old man remarked, though it was unclear whether he was referring to Liu Mingzhang or hinting at someone else. Both Yan Beiting and Jin Chengyan looked up in confusion.
But Jin Chengyan felt no guilt; after all, Jono was his wife. The one desperately trying to win her over was Yan Beiting!
With that thought in mind, Jin Chengyan shot a smug glance at Yan Beiting, as if to say, "Look, even your grandfather is saying this about you. Can't you tone it down a bit and stop embarrassing him?"
Yan Beiting responded with a dismissive glare towards Jin Chengyan.
The undercurrents between the two did not escape the notice of their parents.
No matter how many years had passed, these two boys were still just boys.
Jin Zhongshu and Old Master Yan couldn't help but sigh, wondering if they could still join forces to drive away those who posed a threat to them, just like they did many years ago.
...
Jono knew that Jin Chengyan had brought Ruan Shengyu back as well, and in Qi Ziluo's hospital, Jin Chengyan ultimately did not agree to her request for a divorce.
However, he did not restrict her freedom; he only required that she return to Jin Mansion every night. This was his final demand of her.
He seemed to have been quite busy these past few days, and Jono unilaterally assumed that Jin Chengyan was preoccupied with matters concerning Ruan Shengyu.
With this thought in mind, Jono tried to avoid staying at Jin Mansion except for the time she spent sleeping there.
She went to see Qiao Chen, who was extremely worried about her. Upon seeing her return safe and sound, the little one recalled past events and was overjoyed.
Yet at the same time, Qiao Chen felt a deep sense of heartache; her sister had it tough enough without having to endure those things. Just thinking about it made her feel pained.
Jono reassured Qiao Chen not to worry; she was doing well.
But after turning to leave, Jono found herself unable to smile again. The thought of returning to face Jin Chengyan that night troubled her. Even though their feelings had grown dull, he still held her close every night as if nothing had ever happened between them.
Jono couldn't understand how Jin Chengyan's heart could be so strong!
She shook her head and decided it would be better to have dinner outside before heading back.
It seemed like the New Year was approaching; lanterns were hung everywhere, creating a festive atmosphere. However, Jono felt that this year would be the loneliest one for her—without her father and the old servants from her home, it would just be her and Qiao Chen.
"According to a report from our correspondent at the time of publication, it has been confirmed that all collaborations between the Jin Family and Yan Fei have been terminated before today, with both parties unwilling to disclose the specific reasons. Rumors suggest that the current heads of the Jin Family, Jin Chengyan, and Yan Fei, Yan Beiting, may have had a personal feud that led to the breakdown of their partnership..."
Jono stood dazed in front of the square, where a massive screen displayed photos of Jin Chengyan and Yan Beiting, separated by a red line indicating the rupture in their relationship.
The news quickly moved on to other stories.
Yet Jono remained unable to process what he had just seen.
Jin Chengyan and Yan Beiting had truly fallen out?
Because of her?
Back on the highway that day, Jono had sensed that given Jin Chengyan's temperament, he would not let things slide. They had come through that day unscathed, but just a few days later, Jin Chengyan had indeed parted ways with Yan Beiting.
Although Jono had known there was tension between Jin Chengyan and Yan Beiting, she never imagined it would escalate to this level. And now, it was all because of her!
Returning to her car, she ultimately decided to call Jin Chengyan.
"Where are you? I want to see you." Although they saw each other every day, they hardly spoke—usually it was Jin Chengyan talking while she remained silent.
Now that she wanted to meet, Jin Chengyan naturally agreed.
Half an hour later, Jono arrived at the Jin Family headquarters. Inside, the atmosphere was bustling as if it were peak working hours rather than time to leave.
It was understandable; after all, with the collaboration between the Jin Family and Yan Fei coming to an end, it felt like they were facing a formidable enemy.
When Jono entered Jin Chengyan's office, he was in the middle of a video conference. He gestured for Jono to take a seat, and she quietly settled down.
However, Jin Chengyan's words could not be ignored.
"Yes, the collaboration between the Jin Family and Yan Fei has come to an end. This is the board's decision. Yan Fei holds no value for us anymore, but a skinny camel is still bigger than a horse. Our next goal is to fully acquire Yan Fei, making those two words disappear completely from Qin Cheng!" Jin Chengyan sat confidently in his executive chair, as if acquiring Yan Fei was as simple as squashing an ant.
Jono looked at Jin Chengyan in disbelief. Was he really going to eradicate them just because of Yan Beiting's feelings?
It seemed that Jin Chengyan sensed Jono's gaze and turned to meet her eyes.
His expression was calm, as if he did not consider it a big deal at all.
Before long, Jin Chengyan closed his laptop.
"What do you need to talk to me about?"
"If I divorce you now, will I get half of your assets?" Jono said calmly.
Jin Chengyan looked at Jono quietly and replied, "Yes."
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