Chapter 114
After Chu Sheng Mei figured it out that day, her whole state immediately changed.
She no longer gloomily mulled in the room alone. She also didn't starve herself all day long anymore.
She tried to walk herself out of the shadow bit by bit. Bit by bit, it was back to normal.
When her elder brother and elder sister-in-law noticed that she suddenly thought it through, they were both surprised and curious at the same time.
However, in order not to stimulate her, they both empathetically chose not to ask the reason.
Recalling the stupid thing she did that day, she didn't have the face to say it. At the same time, she was very grateful that Qiao Zhen Min for saving her life as well as helping her keep this secret.
She came here this time because her elder brother mentioned that Qiao Zhen Min was in financial difficulties and wanted to apply for a loan in Nanshan County.
Qiao Zhen Min pretended to have just woken up to open the door. He stretched his waist and yawned, "Hey, Sheng Mei, why did you come here? I just woke up."
In recent years, various provincial cities and towns had been striving for development. In order to encourage entrepreneurship, some local governments had actively supported business loans. Among them, Nanshan County had the best loan preferential policy.
So he came to Nanshan County last week and rented a place. He planned to set up the company here in the future.
When Chu Sheng Mei heard his words, her eyes swept across his shiny hair. She pursed her lips and smiled: "Elder Brother Zhen Min sleep with wax on hair? What a particular habit!"
Qiao Zhen Min: "..."
A surge of blood flushed up and his face instantly turned red like a switch.
Seeing him like this, Chu Sheng Mei laughed so much that she was rocking around.
The spring sun ray cast down from the eaves. Her bright red lips were like delicate red roses in the sun; quite an eye-catching sight.
Qiao Zhen Min stared at her blooming face. The throbbing from that night came back again. His gaze was fixate on her face.
Chu Sheng Mei laughed for a while before stopping. A little embarrassed, she uttered: "I'm sorry Elder Brother Zhen Min, I didn't mean to..."
Qiao Zhen Min grinned and said, "It's okay. You can laugh if you want. You look pretty when you smile."
As soon as these words came out, both individual were stunned at the same time.
Qiao Zhen Min had the urge to slap himself. He just wanted say the latter sentence in his heart; not out loud.
Unexpectedly, he uttered it without knowing when looking at her face!
Two blushes appeared on Chu Sheng Mei's pale face. She coughed: "Thank you for the compliment. By the way, I have something to discuss with Elder Brother Zhen Min."
Qiao Zhen Min quickly moved his body away to let her in: "Come on in. I'll bring you a cup of tea."
As he said that, he hurriedly turned around and headed towards the kitchen. Unanticipated, he stumbled after taking two steps and almost fell flat on his face!
At this point, Qiao Zhen Min wished a hole could appear and swallow him.
He wanted to make a good impression in front of her, but he acted stupid from the beginning!
Seeing this, Chu Sheng Mei wanted to laugh again.
After having known each other for so many years, it was the first time she discovered that Elder Brother Zhen Min was such an 'interesting' person.
Red-faced, Qiao Zhen Min poured and brought over a glass of water. Afterward, he sat down opposite her and spoke, "I heard from your elder brother that you have returned to Baocheng County. Why did you suddenly come here? Did something happen?"
Chu Sheng Mei took a sip of warm water and replied, "Nothing happened. I heard from my elder brother that you are going to take out a loan to set up a company?"
Qiao Zhen Min nodded: "I am very optimistic about the transportation industry. If we can occupy the market first, the profits will be considerable!"
As soon as the new year was over, he hurried to Nanshan County to apply for a loan; just to get the company up and running as soon as possible.
Both Shen Family and Huo Family were rich, but he never thought of borrowing from them.
Once favor was used, it was one less favor.
What's more, whether it was Shen Family or Huo Family, they were friends with Qiao Family because of Da Qiao. Not because of him, Qiao Zhen Min.
Chu Sheng Mei placed the water glass on the table and said, "It sounds very interesting. Elder Brother Zhen Min, please tell me in detail."
Qiao Zhen Min felt her attitude was a bit strange. He didn't think too much about it though.
If it were someone else, maybe he would be on guard. But for Chu Family, there would be no need for that.
After Chu Sheng Mei listened to it, she brought her purse to her front, opened the zipper, and took out three bundle of notes from the inside.
Then she handed it over, "There is a total of 3,000 yuan here. I plan to invest in Elder Brother Zhen Min's transportation company. I wonder if Elder Brother Zhen Min will give me this opportunity to make money?"
Qiao Zhen Min looked at the money in her hand in shock. Then he set his eyes on her face again: "...Do you know what you are doing?"
Chu Sheng Mei's lips curled, "Of course! I'm very awake now. It's useless for me to keep this money lying around. I might as well invest in your company. This way, you don't have to worry about funds and I can make some money to support my daughter."
Qiao Zhen Min's throat felt like it was pinched. He didn't say a word after staring at her for a long time.
He knew that she did this to make him feel less burdened.
If she lent him money, he would definitely refuse. Because Chu Tian Bai had offered to lend him money, but he refused.
Between siblings, the account got to be clearly settled, not to mention relatives and friends. He would rather borrow money from bank loans. Even if he fail in the future, he only owe money to the country and didn't need to shoulder so many favor debts.
But now that Chu Sheng Mei delivered the money to him and thought of an excuse to block his refusal, how could he not be moved?
Under his stare, Chu Sheng Mei felt a little shy. She stretched out her hand and stroked her hair, "To be honest, I did this because I really wanted to thank Elder Brother Zhen Min for saving me last time. Still, it's true that I want to make some money. You also know that now I am a lone woman who need to raise a child. My in-laws will also need my care in the future. I have to prepare for the future!"
Before, she had been immersed in wondering why Du Zhuo Cheng would commit suicide and didn't care about the future. After returning to her -in-law's house, she truly felt that she was an outsider without Du Zhuo Cheng!
In the past few months, her in-laws felt she was the reason for Du Zhuo Cheng's death. Their words were laced with extreme bitterness and meanness. She felt very uncomfortable hearing it. If it were in the past, she would definitely fight back.
But now she can't, she had to be with her daughter!
She won't stay at her in-law's house for the rest of her life though. Putting aside the fact she can't stand it, she didn't want her daughter to grow up in that kind of environment.
Therefore, she had to work hard to make money and make herself stronger. Strong to the point that her in-law family will no longer dare to talk nonsense in front of her!
So, here she was.
To say she was repaying Elder Brother Zhen Min's kindness, her purpose seemed a little impure. Thinking of this, she showed a shy look on her face.
But when Qiao Zhen Min heard her words, he breathed a sigh of relief: "In this case, I will accept the money. Don't worry, I will not let you lose everything!"
What Chu Sheng Mei was most worried about was that he would reject her. When she heard his response, she broke into a grin: "Then I'll be waiting to become a rich woman!"
"Definitely!" Qiao Zhen Min spoke as looked for paper and pen; he was preparing to write an IOU.
At the beginning, Chu Sheng Mei said no need. Due to his insistence, she finally accepted the IOU.
It was noon when it was completed.
Qiao Zhen Min looked outside and relaxedly uttered, "It's time for meal. I'll treat you as a thank you for trusting me so much!"
Chu Sheng Mei didn't hesitate and frankly answered, "Okay. I happen to be hungry!"
Qiao Zhen Min quickly picked up his jacket. After locking the door, the two walked out.
——
In the past, the best place to eat was a state-run restaurant. Now there were many restaurants on the street. Qiao Zhen Min chose a newly opened restaurant.
Chu Sheng Mei felt that it was too wasteful. The company hadn't been set up yet. Currnetly, a penny should be split in half to spend. How can it be wasted?
When Qiao Zhen Min watched her 'chattering non-stop', he didn't feel irritated. Instead, he felt that she was very good at living. The corners of his mouth couldn't help but lift up.
When he arrived at the restaurant, he ordered two meats, one dish and one soup.
Chu Sheng Mei nagged again: "Elder Brother Zhen Min, don't blame me for nagging. If you make money in the future, I won't care how you spend it. But right now, aren't you being too extravagant!"
There were only two of them. What need was there for four dishes?
Qiao Zhen Min grinned, "It's rare chance to treat you, how can I be so shabby? Don't worry, I don't usually come to such a place to eat alone!"
It's because it's you, he chose here.
He didn't say the last bit. Still, Chu Sheng Mei seemed to sense something. She lowered her eyes and said nothing.
The atmosphere was a little ambiguous for a while.
Just then, there was a loud noise from the door.
"Waiter, we need a big table. There are a dozen of us in total!"
The waiter immediately greeted them with a smile: "This way, please."
Because there were too many people on the other side and there was a lot of commotion, Qiao Zhen Min's attention was naturally attracted. Then he saw one person—Shi Qin Xin.
He and Shi Qin Xin divorced for seven years. After that, the two families never been in contact. Nor did he ever saw her again. Later, he heard that she married to another province.
Seven years had passed. Now seeing each other, it felt like a lifetime away.
Shi Qin Xin was a little fatter than before. Her figure was obviously out of shape. While her face was a little haggard. The dark circles under her eyes looked very scary.
When he looked over, Shi Qin Xin happened to look over. Their gaze collided.
Shi Qin Xin's body trembled. She stepped on the foot of the woman next to her.
The woman was displeased: "Hey, watch where you're going? Are your eyes just for display?"
An embarrassed smile appeared on Shi Qin Xin's face: "I'm sorry Aunt, I... I didn't mean to!"
Being scolded like this in front of her ex-husband made her feel extremely embarrassed and ashamed.
She can't wait to dig a hole and bury herself!
Qiao Zhen Min didn't gloat at her misfortune. He retrieved his gaze and pretended not to see the scene just now.
Back then, he was irked that she lied and put the blame on little Wan-er. But now the two have nothing to do with each other and that it had been so long, he had already let it go.
Seeing him lower his head, Shi Qin Xin felt relieved. At the same time, there was an inexplicable disappointment.
After her divorce with Qiao Zhen Min, her life in her maternal home was terrible. Her family sternly blamed her for lying. Even more, for getting involved with her ex-husband as it caused her family to lose face with her.
The surrounding neighbors always looked at her with strange eyes. All kinds of rumors were like a sharp knife, making her bleed.
She regretted long ago. From the moment Qiao Zhen Min wanted to divorce her, she regretted it. But there was no regret medicine in the world. Everyone should be responsible for their actions!
She had once wanted to go to Qiao Zhen Min and ask him to forgive her. But she knew that even if she knelt in front of him, he would never forgive her!
Later, a relative introduced a man from another province to her. She agreed without thinking.
At that time, she just wanted to stay away from everything around her; away from all the gossip.
Her current man was ten years older than her and had a son and a daughter with his dead ex-wife.
The hardest position in this world was a stepmother. Every time the stepchildren made trouble for her, she would think of little Wan-er. The little girl who smiled at her quietly and shyly.
She hated herself to the point of wanting to slap herself a few times!
At this moment, her eyes shifted to Chu Sheng Mei, who was sitting opposite Qiao Zhen Min. A complex light flashed in her eyes.
The next moment, the previous woman tugged at her and said, "What are you doing? All day, you're in a trance. I called you so many times and you didn't hear it. Are you deaf?
Shi Qin Xin came back to her senses and let out a string of apologies again.
The woman was still unrelenting: "Ah Lin, govern this wife of yours. She's really doesn't know how act. I suspect she's going against me on purpose!"
Once these words were out, a man in his forties immediately berated Shi Qin Xin.
Shi Qin Xin's face flushed, but she didn't reply.
Though things remained the same, people did not.
Qiao Zhen Min softly sighed.
Chu Sheng Mei noticed that there was something wrong with his expression and whispered, "What's wrong?"
Qiao Zhen Min smiled at her and responded, "It's nothing. Just saw an acquaintance."
"Acquaintance?" Chu Sheng Mei wanted to look back, but was stopped by him.
Qiao Zhen Min said, "Don't look back. It's my ex-wife."
Chu Sheng Mei was stunned for a moment. Then she remembered that the so-called ex-wife wasn't Chen Qiao Qiao, but the other woman with the surname Shi.
Speaking of which, his marriages were actually quite rough. One gave him a green hat, while the other was a troublemaker.
Although she and Du Zhuo Cheng seemed to be very harmonious, he abandoned her in the end and ended his life in such a tragic way. It made her have to doubt that the her previously assumed happiness was just her wishful thinking.
Qiao Zhen Min sensed that she was depressed because of his words and immediately come up with all kinds of jokes to make her happy.
Soon, the smile returned to Chu Sheng Mei's face again.
Shi Qin Xin, who was sitting at the other end, watched their laughter and her heart was like cut by a knife.
——
A new semester had started again.
Little Dong Yun and the twins were all eight years old. Little Dong Yun and Xue An Xu were in the second grade.
The little bookworm, Qiao An Jie, skipped grades to fifth grade because he was too smart despite his age.
Recently, the school received a notice; saying a director from the capital's Municipal Education Department would come to inspect. Each school were told to arrange an event.
The directors of Yunlai Primary School were both excited and worried.
Excited as this was a rare opportunity to stand out.
If the capital's director give them a praise, the school and their future will have no worry in the future.
The worry part was what show were they going to do?
After the principal held countless meetings with the year heads and teachers. The final decision was a chorus.
Although the chorus event was a bit old-fashioned, it was stable win. All of them want to stand out at such an opportunity. But if something cropped up, they can easily cripple themselves and eventually become a joke in the education world.
The director were old fashioned and dare not innovate. Let alone the teachers, who had no status. They could only follow along with the arrangements.
So the event was decided. The next step was to choose the candidates for the chorus.
Firstly for a big chorus, one need to sing nicely. This was the most basic thing. If not, wouldn't singing like a duck and being out of tune be unpleasant?
In addition to those with good voices, it was also necessary to find a few good-looking people to act as facades. Good-looking ones were arranged in the front. This way, it will be pleasing to the eyes when the director watch.
After flipping through the selection, little Dong Yun and the twins were all selected.
Needless to say, there was no one in the whole town with a more sweeter voice than little Dong Yun's.
As for the twins, they ware responsible for looking pretty.
Everything was ready. However, something went wrong during rehearsal.
The reason was that little Dong Yun was selected as the lead singer, but the directors felt that little Dong Yun was a little unpleasing to look. Therefore, standing in the first row was a terrible sight.
Saying 'a little unpleasing' was being polite. To be honest, they thought little Dong Yun looked downright ugly!
Qiao's children were notoriously good-looking. Da Qiao was smart and good-looking. She had been a role model for parents to educate their children for so many years.
Dong Lin and the twins were also very good-looking. With fair skin and handsome features, they were a bit more delicate-looking than the children in the city.
When excluding the second branch, the other three children in first branch and Qiao Dong Wan were above average. But out of the whole family, little Dong Yun was the only exception.
Little Dong Yun's skin was very dark. Her eyes were small and her nose was flat. Her face wasn't good-looking. If she didn't look like her mom, everyone would definitely think that she was picked up.
In general, the lead singer stood in the most central position. However, little Dong Yun was arranged to the last row as a result of the year heads' countless discussion.
A prettier little girl was arranged as the lead singer and was requested to make a sound; just lip-synch.
When little Dong Yun found out, she protested on the spot: "I'm the lead singer but can't stand in the first row! And you want to make it look like my voice is made by someone else? Why"
The female teacher who led the team spoke, "As a student, you do whatever the teacher arranges for you. What's with all the why?"
Little Dong Yun wasn't frightened at all: "Only a puppet will do what others arrange it to do. I am human, I have thoughts and a brain I will not accept your arrangement, unless you tell me reasons!"
This was the first time the female teacher saw such a rebellious child. Her face flushed with anger: "You... Qiao Dong Yun, if you keep at this, then don't participate in the rehearsal!"
Little Dong Yun harrumphed from her nostrils: "Then I won't participate. You think I'm care? An Jie, An Xu, let's go!"
Qiao An Jie and Xue An Xu were also very dissatisfied with the teacher's arrangement for little Dong Yun.
Hearing little Dong Yun's call, the two of them left the team at once. The three of them left without looking back.
Furious, the female teacher's breath almost didn't come up and died on the spot!
The female teacher couldn't swallow this breath!
She felt that if she didn't teach little Dong Yun a lesson today, other students would definitely follow suit in the future.
So she turned around, rushed out of the classroom, ran to the office, and reported the matter to the year head.
After hearing this, the year head was also exasperated. He slapped the table with a bang: "Preposterous! This kind of student can expelled at once!"
Hearing this, the female teacher's chest puffed up. She felt that she had done a very right thing.
So the two of them rushed to the school gate with great arrogance and halted little Dong Yun and the twins, who were carrying schoolbags and about to head home.
Xue An Xu angrily uttered, "What are you doing?"
Before the year head could answer, little Dong Yun replied, "They must be trying to kidnap us and torture us. Let's go to the police!"
Year head:"……"
Female teacher: "..."
After little Dong Yun and the twins finished speaking, they slipped away from the year head's arm and hollered to call the police.
"Quick, stop them!"
The dean was so mad that he was about to have a heart attack!
If this really goes to the police, his career and reputation will be ruined!
He instructed the female teacher and the security guard to stop the three little things from Qiao Family.
Although the three moved quickly, they were only eight-year-olds after all. Soon, they were caught.
Little Dong Yun's face turned black and red with anger: "Let me go, or I'll tell my grandmother. She can beat you to the west sky with one punch!"
The year head's pig-headed face flushed red again with anger: "Outrageous! I'm going to teach you a lesson!"
After he finished speaking, he raised his hand high and was about to hit little Dong Yun on the head.
At this time, Da Qiao, who came to the school to pick up her younger siblings, appeared!
Da Qiao was about to explode: "Stop right there!"
"Elder Sister Da Qiao, help!" When little Dong Yun saw Elder Sister had arrived, she burst into tears.
The twins, who were caught by security guards, also cried.
Seeing her younger siblings being bullied, how could she calm down?
She dashed up, kicked off a security guard, and first rescued the twins who were closer to her.
Then she rushed up and punched the year head in the face!
The year head let out a pig scream!
But it wasn't over yet. Da Qiao lifted the year head up. Then she lowered her head and spoke to her younger siblings, "Go. To the police station!"
Like this, she easily carried the year head like carrying a boar and rushed frantically towards the police station with her three younger siblings.
Female teacher: "..."
Security guard:"……"
The year head's hair was fluttering in the wind as he screamed as if he was being raped: "You... let me go!"
Let go?
Impossible!
Da Qiao led her younger siblings to the police station in great fanfare.
The police at the police station were stunned when they saw this scene.
Da Qiao entered the police station, threw the person to the ground, pointed at the disheveled year head, and stated, "I want to report a case. He beat the students!"
The year head, whose hair was blown into a knots, clutched his nauseated chest, and defended in pants, "...I didn't!"
Little Dong Yun: "You did! You were going to hit me!"
The twins also nodded: "Yes! You, the female teacher, and the security guard caught us. If my elder sister hadn't come here, we would have been killed by you now!"
Year head:"…………"
The year head was trembling with anger. However, he wasn't afraid.
He felt that the people at the police station would definitely not listen to the few kids' nonsense. His nephew was a police officer at the police station. He would definitely not let him get into a mishap.
But when he knew that police station's chief was a god-relative of Qiao Family, he panicked.
This matter caused quite a commotion. Both the principal and the vice-principal were alarmed.
In order for Qiao Family to withdraw the report, they had to make various guarantees and concessions.
First, the year head, the female teacher, and the security guard were all fired. Second, Qiao Family's children were exempted from tuition fees until graduation.
In the end, little Dong Yun get to stand in the first row and sing.
The school's directors must nod in tears. The school was at fault in this matter. Once it get out of the school, it will be over.
Soon the capital's director's inspection day came. The chorus of Yunlai Primary School was very successful and won bursts of applause.
The day after the performance, a man in a suit appeared in front of Qiao's house.
The man introduced himself and said that his name was Ren Ke Zhong. He was the outreach director of the Capital's Choir who specializing in recruiting talents.
He felt that little Dong Yun's voice was very sweet. Like the sound of heaven. If she stayed in a small place, it would be a waste of her talent.
He hoped that Qiao Family would let him bring little Dong Yun to the choir in the capital.
After Chu Sheng Mei figured it out that day, her whole state immediately changed.
She no longer gloomily mulled in the room alone. She also didn't starve herself all day long anymore.
She tried to walk herself out of the shadow bit by bit. Bit by bit, it was back to normal.
When her elder brother and elder sister-in-law noticed that she suddenly thought it through, they were both surprised and curious at the same time.
However, in order not to stimulate her, they both empathetically chose not to ask the reason.
Recalling the stupid thing she did that day, she didn't have the face to say it. At the same time, she was very grateful that Qiao Zhen Min for saving her life as well as helping her keep this secret.
She came here this time because her elder brother mentioned that Qiao Zhen Min was in financial difficulties and wanted to apply for a loan in Nanshan County.
Qiao Zhen Min pretended to have just woken up to open the door. He stretched his waist and yawned, "Hey, Sheng Mei, why did you come here? I just woke up."
In recent years, various provincial cities and towns had been striving for development. In order to encourage entrepreneurship, some local governments had actively supported business loans. Among them, Nanshan County had the best loan preferential policy.
So he came to Nanshan County last week and rented a place. He planned to set up the company here in the future.
When Chu Sheng Mei heard his words, her eyes swept across his shiny hair. She pursed her lips and smiled: "Elder Brother Zhen Min sleep with wax on hair? What a particular habit!"
Qiao Zhen Min: "..."
A surge of blood flushed up and his face instantly turned red like a switch.
Seeing him like this, Chu Sheng Mei laughed so much that she was rocking around.
The spring sun ray cast down from the eaves. Her bright red lips were like delicate red roses in the sun; quite an eye-catching sight.
Qiao Zhen Min stared at her blooming face. The throbbing from that night came back again. His gaze was fixate on her face.
Chu Sheng Mei laughed for a while before stopping. A little embarrassed, she uttered: "I'm sorry Elder Brother Zhen Min, I didn't mean to..."
Qiao Zhen Min grinned and said, "It's okay. You can laugh if you want. You look pretty when you smile."
As soon as these words came out, both individual were stunned at the same time.
Qiao Zhen Min had the urge to slap himself. He just wanted say the latter sentence in his heart; not out loud.
Unexpectedly, he uttered it without knowing when looking at her face!
Two blushes appeared on Chu Sheng Mei's pale face. She coughed: "Thank you for the compliment. By the way, I have something to discuss with Elder Brother Zhen Min."
Qiao Zhen Min quickly moved his body away to let her in: "Come on in. I'll bring you a cup of tea."
As he said that, he hurriedly turned around and headed towards the kitchen. Unanticipated, he stumbled after taking two steps and almost fell flat on his face!
At this point, Qiao Zhen Min wished a hole could appear and swallow him.
He wanted to make a good impression in front of her, but he acted stupid from the beginning!
Seeing this, Chu Sheng Mei wanted to laugh again.
After having known each other for so many years, it was the first time she discovered that Elder Brother Zhen Min was such an 'interesting' person.
Red-faced, Qiao Zhen Min poured and brought over a glass of water. Afterward, he sat down opposite her and spoke, "I heard from your elder brother that you have returned to Baocheng County. Why did you suddenly come here? Did something happen?"
Chu Sheng Mei took a sip of warm water and replied, "Nothing happened. I heard from my elder brother that you are going to take out a loan to set up a company?"
Qiao Zhen Min nodded: "I am very optimistic about the transportation industry. If we can occupy the market first, the profits will be considerable!"
As soon as the new year was over, he hurried to Nanshan County to apply for a loan; just to get the company up and running as soon as possible.
Both Shen Family and Huo Family were rich, but he never thought of borrowing from them.
Once favor was used, it was one less favor.
What's more, whether it was Shen Family or Huo Family, they were friends with Qiao Family because of Da Qiao. Not because of him, Qiao Zhen Min.
Chu Sheng Mei placed the water glass on the table and said, "It sounds very interesting. Elder Brother Zhen Min, please tell me in detail."
Qiao Zhen Min felt her attitude was a bit strange. He didn't think too much about it though.
If it were someone else, maybe he would be on guard. But for Chu Family, there would be no need for that.
After Chu Sheng Mei listened to it, she brought her purse to her front, opened the zipper, and took out three bundle of notes from the inside.
Then she handed it over, "There is a total of 3,000 yuan here. I plan to invest in Elder Brother Zhen Min's transportation company. I wonder if Elder Brother Zhen Min will give me this opportunity to make money?"
Qiao Zhen Min looked at the money in her hand in shock. Then he set his eyes on her face again: "...Do you know what you are doing?"
Chu Sheng Mei's lips curled, "Of course! I'm very awake now. It's useless for me to keep this money lying around. I might as well invest in your company. This way, you don't have to worry about funds and I can make some money to support my daughter."
Qiao Zhen Min's throat felt like it was pinched. He didn't say a word after staring at her for a long time.
He knew that she did this to make him feel less burdened.
If she lent him money, he would definitely refuse. Because Chu Tian Bai had offered to lend him money, but he refused.
Between siblings, the account got to be clearly settled, not to mention relatives and friends. He would rather borrow money from bank loans. Even if he fail in the future, he only owe money to the country and didn't need to shoulder so many favor debts.
But now that Chu Sheng Mei delivered the money to him and thought of an excuse to block his refusal, how could he not be moved?
Under his stare, Chu Sheng Mei felt a little shy. She stretched out her hand and stroked her hair, "To be honest, I did this because I really wanted to thank Elder Brother Zhen Min for saving me last time. Still, it's true that I want to make some money. You also know that now I am a lone woman who need to raise a child. My in-laws will also need my care in the future. I have to prepare for the future!"
Before, she had been immersed in wondering why Du Zhuo Cheng would commit suicide and didn't care about the future. After returning to her -in-law's house, she truly felt that she was an outsider without Du Zhuo Cheng!
In the past few months, her in-laws felt she was the reason for Du Zhuo Cheng's death. Their words were laced with extreme bitterness and meanness. She felt very uncomfortable hearing it. If it were in the past, she would definitely fight back.
But now she can't, she had to be with her daughter!
She won't stay at her in-law's house for the rest of her life though. Putting aside the fact she can't stand it, she didn't want her daughter to grow up in that kind of environment.
Therefore, she had to work hard to make money and make herself stronger. Strong to the point that her in-law family will no longer dare to talk nonsense in front of her!
So, here she was.
To say she was repaying Elder Brother Zhen Min's kindness, her purpose seemed a little impure. Thinking of this, she showed a shy look on her face.
But when Qiao Zhen Min heard her words, he breathed a sigh of relief: "In this case, I will accept the money. Don't worry, I will not let you lose everything!"
What Chu Sheng Mei was most worried about was that he would reject her. When she heard his response, she broke into a grin: "Then I'll be waiting to become a rich woman!"
"Definitely!" Qiao Zhen Min spoke as looked for paper and pen; he was preparing to write an IOU.
At the beginning, Chu Sheng Mei said no need. Due to his insistence, she finally accepted the IOU.
It was noon when it was completed.
Qiao Zhen Min looked outside and relaxedly uttered, "It's time for meal. I'll treat you as a thank you for trusting me so much!"
Chu Sheng Mei didn't hesitate and frankly answered, "Okay. I happen to be hungry!"
Qiao Zhen Min quickly picked up his jacket. After locking the door, the two walked out.
——
In the past, the best place to eat was a state-run restaurant. Now there were many restaurants on the street. Qiao Zhen Min chose a newly opened restaurant.
Chu Sheng Mei felt that it was too wasteful. The company hadn't been set up yet. Currnetly, a penny should be split in half to spend. How can it be wasted?
When Qiao Zhen Min watched her 'chattering non-stop', he didn't feel irritated. Instead, he felt that she was very good at living. The corners of his mouth couldn't help but lift up.
When he arrived at the restaurant, he ordered two meats, one dish and one soup.
Chu Sheng Mei nagged again: "Elder Brother Zhen Min, don't blame me for nagging. If you make money in the future, I won't care how you spend it. But right now, aren't you being too extravagant!"
There were only two of them. What need was there for four dishes?
Qiao Zhen Min grinned, "It's rare chance to treat you, how can I be so shabby? Don't worry, I don't usually come to such a place to eat alone!"
It's because it's you, he chose here.
He didn't say the last bit. Still, Chu Sheng Mei seemed to sense something. She lowered her eyes and said nothing.
The atmosphere was a little ambiguous for a while.
Just then, there was a loud noise from the door.
"Waiter, we need a big table. There are a dozen of us in total!"
The waiter immediately greeted them with a smile: "This way, please."
Because there were too many people on the other side and there was a lot of commotion, Qiao Zhen Min's attention was naturally attracted. Then he saw one person—Shi Qin Xin.
He and Shi Qin Xin divorced for seven years. After that, the two families never been in contact. Nor did he ever saw her again. Later, he heard that she married to another province.
Seven years had passed. Now seeing each other, it felt like a lifetime away.
Shi Qin Xin was a little fatter than before. Her figure was obviously out of shape. While her face was a little haggard. The dark circles under her eyes looked very scary.
When he looked over, Shi Qin Xin happened to look over. Their gaze collided.
Shi Qin Xin's body trembled. She stepped on the foot of the woman next to her.
The woman was displeased: "Hey, watch where you're going? Are your eyes just for display?"
An embarrassed smile appeared on Shi Qin Xin's face: "I'm sorry Aunt, I... I didn't mean to!"
Being scolded like this in front of her ex-husband made her feel extremely embarrassed and ashamed.
She can't wait to dig a hole and bury herself!
Qiao Zhen Min didn't gloat at her misfortune. He retrieved his gaze and pretended not to see the scene just now.
Back then, he was irked that she lied and put the blame on little Wan-er. But now the two have nothing to do with each other and that it had been so long, he had already let it go.
Seeing him lower his head, Shi Qin Xin felt relieved. At the same time, there was an inexplicable disappointment.
After her divorce with Qiao Zhen Min, her life in her maternal home was terrible. Her family sternly blamed her for lying. Even more, for getting involved with her ex-husband as it caused her family to lose face with her.
The surrounding neighbors always looked at her with strange eyes. All kinds of rumors were like a sharp knife, making her bleed.
She regretted long ago. From the moment Qiao Zhen Min wanted to divorce her, she regretted it. But there was no regret medicine in the world. Everyone should be responsible for their actions!
She had once wanted to go to Qiao Zhen Min and ask him to forgive her. But she knew that even if she knelt in front of him, he would never forgive her!
Later, a relative introduced a man from another province to her. She agreed without thinking.
At that time, she just wanted to stay away from everything around her; away from all the gossip.
Her current man was ten years older than her and had a son and a daughter with his dead ex-wife.
The hardest position in this world was a stepmother. Every time the stepchildren made trouble for her, she would think of little Wan-er. The little girl who smiled at her quietly and shyly.
She hated herself to the point of wanting to slap herself a few times!
At this moment, her eyes shifted to Chu Sheng Mei, who was sitting opposite Qiao Zhen Min. A complex light flashed in her eyes.
The next moment, the previous woman tugged at her and said, "What are you doing? All day, you're in a trance. I called you so many times and you didn't hear it. Are you deaf?
Shi Qin Xin came back to her senses and let out a string of apologies again.
The woman was still unrelenting: "Ah Lin, govern this wife of yours. She's really doesn't know how act. I suspect she's going against me on purpose!"
Once these words were out, a man in his forties immediately berated Shi Qin Xin.
Shi Qin Xin's face flushed, but she didn't reply.
Though things remained the same, people did not.
Qiao Zhen Min softly sighed.
Chu Sheng Mei noticed that there was something wrong with his expression and whispered, "What's wrong?"
Qiao Zhen Min smiled at her and responded, "It's nothing. Just saw an acquaintance."
"Acquaintance?" Chu Sheng Mei wanted to look back, but was stopped by him.
Qiao Zhen Min said, "Don't look back. It's my ex-wife."
Chu Sheng Mei was stunned for a moment. Then she remembered that the so-called ex-wife wasn't Chen Qiao Qiao, but the other woman with the surname Shi.
Speaking of which, his marriages were actually quite rough. One gave him a green hat, while the other was a troublemaker.
Although she and Du Zhuo Cheng seemed to be very harmonious, he abandoned her in the end and ended his life in such a tragic way. It made her have to doubt that the her previously assumed happiness was just her wishful thinking.
Qiao Zhen Min sensed that she was depressed because of his words and immediately come up with all kinds of jokes to make her happy.
Soon, the smile returned to Chu Sheng Mei's face again.
Shi Qin Xin, who was sitting at the other end, watched their laughter and her heart was like cut by a knife.
——
A new semester had started again.
Little Dong Yun and the twins were all eight years old. Little Dong Yun and Xue An Xu were in the second grade.
The little bookworm, Qiao An Jie, skipped grades to fifth grade because he was too smart despite his age.
Recently, the school received a notice; saying a director from the capital's Municipal Education Department would come to inspect. Each school were told to arrange an event.
The directors of Yunlai Primary School were both excited and worried.
Excited as this was a rare opportunity to stand out.
If the capital's director give them a praise, the school and their future will have no worry in the future.
The worry part was what show were they going to do?
After the principal held countless meetings with the year heads and teachers. The final decision was a chorus.
Although the chorus event was a bit old-fashioned, it was stable win. All of them want to stand out at such an opportunity. But if something cropped up, they can easily cripple themselves and eventually become a joke in the education world.
The director were old fashioned and dare not innovate. Let alone the teachers, who had no status. They could only follow along with the arrangements.
So the event was decided. The next step was to choose the candidates for the chorus.
Firstly for a big chorus, one need to sing nicely. This was the most basic thing. If not, wouldn't singing like a duck and being out of tune be unpleasant?
In addition to those with good voices, it was also necessary to find a few good-looking people to act as facades. Good-looking ones were arranged in the front. This way, it will be pleasing to the eyes when the director watch.
After flipping through the selection, little Dong Yun and the twins were all selected.
Needless to say, there was no one in the whole town with a more sweeter voice than little Dong Yun's.
As for the twins, they ware responsible for looking pretty.
Everything was ready. However, something went wrong during rehearsal.
The reason was that little Dong Yun was selected as the lead singer, but the directors felt that little Dong Yun was a little unpleasing to look. Therefore, standing in the first row was a terrible sight.
Saying 'a little unpleasing' was being polite. To be honest, they thought little Dong Yun looked downright ugly!
Qiao's children were notoriously good-looking. Da Qiao was smart and good-looking. She had been a role model for parents to educate their children for so many years.
Dong Lin and the twins were also very good-looking. With fair skin and handsome features, they were a bit more delicate-looking than the children in the city.
When excluding the second branch, the other three children in first branch and Qiao Dong Wan were above average. But out of the whole family, little Dong Yun was the only exception.
Little Dong Yun's skin was very dark. Her eyes were small and her nose was flat. Her face wasn't good-looking. If she didn't look like her mom, everyone would definitely think that she was picked up.
In general, the lead singer stood in the most central position. However, little Dong Yun was arranged to the last row as a result of the year heads' countless discussion.
A prettier little girl was arranged as the lead singer and was requested to make a sound; just lip-synch.
When little Dong Yun found out, she protested on the spot: "I'm the lead singer but can't stand in the first row! And you want to make it look like my voice is made by someone else? Why"
The female teacher who led the team spoke, "As a student, you do whatever the teacher arranges for you. What's with all the why?"
Little Dong Yun wasn't frightened at all: "Only a puppet will do what others arrange it to do. I am human, I have thoughts and a brain I will not accept your arrangement, unless you tell me reasons!"
This was the first time the female teacher saw such a rebellious child. Her face flushed with anger: "You... Qiao Dong Yun, if you keep at this, then don't participate in the rehearsal!"
Little Dong Yun harrumphed from her nostrils: "Then I won't participate. You think I'm care? An Jie, An Xu, let's go!"
Qiao An Jie and Xue An Xu were also very dissatisfied with the teacher's arrangement for little Dong Yun.
Hearing little Dong Yun's call, the two of them left the team at once. The three of them left without looking back.
Furious, the female teacher's breath almost didn't come up and died on the spot!
The female teacher couldn't swallow this breath!
She felt that if she didn't teach little Dong Yun a lesson today, other students would definitely follow suit in the future.
So she turned around, rushed out of the classroom, ran to the office, and reported the matter to the year head.
After hearing this, the year head was also exasperated. He slapped the table with a bang: "Preposterous! This kind of student can expelled at once!"
Hearing this, the female teacher's chest puffed up. She felt that she had done a very right thing.
So the two of them rushed to the school gate with great arrogance and halted little Dong Yun and the twins, who were carrying schoolbags and about to head home.
Xue An Xu angrily uttered, "What are you doing?"
Before the year head could answer, little Dong Yun replied, "They must be trying to kidnap us and torture us. Let's go to the police!"
Year head:"……"
Female teacher: "..."
After little Dong Yun and the twins finished speaking, they slipped away from the year head's arm and hollered to call the police.
"Quick, stop them!"
The dean was so mad that he was about to have a heart attack!
If this really goes to the police, his career and reputation will be ruined!
He instructed the female teacher and the security guard to stop the three little things from Qiao Family.
Although the three moved quickly, they were only eight-year-olds after all. Soon, they were caught.
Little Dong Yun's face turned black and red with anger: "Let me go, or I'll tell my grandmother. She can beat you to the west sky with one punch!"
The year head's pig-headed face flushed red again with anger: "Outrageous! I'm going to teach you a lesson!"
After he finished speaking, he raised his hand high and was about to hit little Dong Yun on the head.
At this time, Da Qiao, who came to the school to pick up her younger siblings, appeared!
Da Qiao was about to explode: "Stop right there!"
"Elder Sister Da Qiao, help!" When little Dong Yun saw Elder Sister had arrived, she burst into tears.
The twins, who were caught by security guards, also cried.
Seeing her younger siblings being bullied, how could she calm down?
She dashed up, kicked off a security guard, and first rescued the twins who were closer to her.
Then she rushed up and punched the year head in the face!
The year head let out a pig scream!
But it wasn't over yet. Da Qiao lifted the year head up. Then she lowered her head and spoke to her younger siblings, "Go. To the police station!"
Like this, she easily carried the year head like carrying a boar and rushed frantically towards the police station with her three younger siblings.
Female teacher: "..."
Security guard:"……"
The year head's hair was fluttering in the wind as he screamed as if he was being raped: "You... let me go!"
Let go?
Impossible!
Da Qiao led her younger siblings to the police station in great fanfare.
The police at the police station were stunned when they saw this scene.
Da Qiao entered the police station, threw the person to the ground, pointed at the disheveled year head, and stated, "I want to report a case. He beat the students!"
The year head, whose hair was blown into a knots, clutched his nauseated chest, and defended in pants, "...I didn't!"
Little Dong Yun: "You did! You were going to hit me!"
The twins also nodded: "Yes! You, the female teacher, and the security guard caught us. If my elder sister hadn't come here, we would have been killed by you now!"
Year head:"…………"
The year head was trembling with anger. However, he wasn't afraid.
He felt that the people at the police station would definitely not listen to the few kids' nonsense. His nephew was a police officer at the police station. He would definitely not let him get into a mishap.
But when he knew that police station's chief was a god-relative of Qiao Family, he panicked.
This matter caused quite a commotion. Both the principal and the vice-principal were alarmed.
In order for Qiao Family to withdraw the report, they had to make various guarantees and concessions.
First, the year head, the female teacher, and the security guard were all fired. Second, Qiao Family's children were exempted from tuition fees until graduation.
In the end, little Dong Yun get to stand in the first row and sing.
The school's directors must nod in tears. The school was at fault in this matter. Once it get out of the school, it will be over.
Soon the capital's director's inspection day came. The chorus of Yunlai Primary School was very successful and won bursts of applause.
The day after the performance, a man in a suit appeared in front of Qiao's house.
The man introduced himself and said that his name was Ren Ke Zhong. He was the outreach director of the Capital's Choir who specializing in recruiting talents.
He felt that little Dong Yun's voice was very sweet. Like the sound of heaven. If she stayed in a small place, it would be a waste of her talent.
He hoped that Qiao Family would let him bring little Dong Yun to the choir in the capital.
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ReplyDeleteChina would never put an 'ugly' kid singing in the back while a 'pretty' kid lip syncs in front
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