Chapter 121: Going Abroad

Cheng Jiu said nothing, his arm slipped around her waist. Xin Gan felt him hold her tightly, but he remained silent. The room was quiet except for the warm breath of the man near her neck.

Only the bedside lamp cast a gentle orange glow—it was never easy for him to sleep in complete darkness. He needed a light on to feel at ease.

The soft amber light was not harsh, and Xin Gan found it comforting as well.

Autumn was approaching, and the nights were cooling down, so the air conditioning was no longer necessary. In the dimness, Xin Gan reached for his hand, whispering, “Cheng Jiu, are you asleep?”

He finally replied, “Not yet.”

Xin Gan continued softly, “What do you think about what I asked earlier?”

“Want it, then have the baby,” he said simply.

So he hadn’t answered before but now said if she wanted, they could have a child.

Xin Gan couldn’t help but wonder if he actually disliked children and hesitated because he was afraid to upset her, so he gave a perfunctory answer.

Indeed, his response seemed somewhat dismissive to her.

The topic of children was sensitive for both of them. They both feared that having a child might change things between them. She had consulted a doctor but never told Cheng Jiu about it, so he didn’t know.

Moreover, Mrs. Cheng had just pressed them about having a child in front of her, so she wanted to know Cheng Jiu’s true feelings.

Xin Gan fell silent, then suddenly sat up. Backlit, her expression was hidden from Cheng Jiu, who lay beside her, sensing something was wrong. Tonight, everything about her seemed off.

He sat up immediately. “What’s wrong? Did someone say something to you? Otherwise, why would you suddenly ask about having a child?”

“No, I just wanted to hear your opinion,” she said.

Cheng Jiu also had his worries but hadn’t shared them with Xin Gan. He threw off the covers, sat up, and gently stroked her cheek. “Then let’s get a checkup tomorrow.”

“Huh?”

“I’ll go.”

“…”

His hand moved to her nape, pulling her closer. He smiled slowly. “I thought you didn’t like kids.”

“That depends on whose child it is,” Xin Gan said faintly.

Cheng Jiu’s smile deepened. “You’re seeing everything through rose-colored glasses.”

“Yeah.”

He tightened his grip on her neck and leaned close. “If you want it, let’s try. I’ll schedule a checkup tomorrow. If all the reports are good, we’ll have one.”

Xin Gan tilted her head and bit her lip, silent.

“You’re making it sound like I’m forcing you. Cheng Jiu, if you don’t like it, then forget it…”

“That’s no fun. When have I ever said I don’t like it?” He kissed the corner of her lips warmly, then her eyes. “You’re just teasing me on purpose, aren’t you?”

“No.” Xin Gan closed her eyes, her hands instinctively clutching his shoulders. She tilted her head back and let him press her down. He kissed her lips again, murmuring indistinctly, “Don’t you know how I feel about you? You’re my one and only. The one I love most is you.”

Cheng Jiu whispered words of love at her ear, his hands never still as they cradled the back of her head with a fierce, burning tenderness. His love for her had not waned with time. Though life was mundane, his passion and devotion remained as deep and fervent as ever.

…

The next morning, Cheng Jiu took a day off to get a medical checkup. Xin Gan stayed at the Cheng household to care for Mrs. Cheng. As a daughter-in-law, it was her duty. Fortunately, she wasn’t burdened with chores or cooking; she simply kept Mrs. Cheng company, chatting softly and reminding her to take her medicine.

Meanwhile, Cheng Hui avoided conflict with his mother by staying in his room reading, though he barely absorbed the words.

In the afternoon, Mrs. Cheng woke from her nap and saw Xin Gan nearby. “Xin Gan, you don’t need to stay with me all day. Just your thoughtfulness is enough. You should go back. Your studio must be busy.”

“It’s fine. The studio isn’t busy. I can be away a while without problem.”

“You’re such a sensible child, nothing like Cheng Hui—always causing trouble. Raising her was a waste.”

“Mom… Actually, Cheng Hui did come to see you this morning. She left before you woke, worried you’d scold her again.”

“Don’t defend her. I know her character. She wouldn’t come to see me if she didn’t want to. She probably hopes I can’t control her anymore.” Mrs. Cheng’s voice rose, then she coughed.

Xin Gan quickly fetched a cup of warm water and handed it to her. “Mom, don’t think like that. No matter what, Cheng Hui is your daughter. Even my mother and I argue sometimes—that’s inevitable. After a few days, she feels sorry when she sees me eating takeout and calls me home for a good meal. You’re the same—sharp words but a soft heart. You just worry she’ll be deceived. But Cheng Hui is an adult now. She needs to learn to make her own decisions.”

“Mom, even if Cheng Hui makes mistakes, doesn’t Cheng Jiu look out for her?”

…

That evening, only Mrs. Cheng and Xin Gan ate dinner together. Mr. Cheng was still at work, and Cheng Jiu hadn’t returned yet.

Cheng Hui came downstairs and greeted her mother, but Mrs. Cheng ignored her as if she hadn’t heard.

Cheng Hui stopped trying to get her attention and sat down to eat silently.

Xin Gan wanted to ease the tension but found no way to start. Mrs. Cheng barely touched her food before losing her appetite and calling the maid to help her take a walk in the backyard.

After Mrs. Cheng left, Cheng Hui spoke.

“Xin Xin, do you think she wants to have a proper talk with me? Even if she’s well, she won’t talk to me properly.”

Xin Gan sighed. “She’s still angry. Give it a few days.”

Cheng Hui knew her mother well. She had stopped her from being with Tang Que before and would never agree to her relationship with He Chuan, like a stubborn, unreasonable old lady. Cheng Hui felt powerless.

Thinking of Tang Que, she clenched her fists and went back to her room.

---

Since Tang Que did that to her, he had not contacted her again. She hadn’t reported it to the police, afraid her classmates and friends would find out, so she never told anyone. But her family probably suspected, as Mrs. Cheng had asked her several times. At that time, she was too depressed to speak.

The incident was a heavy blow and a deep humiliation she couldn’t bring herself to mention.

She didn’t dare tell He Chuan, fearing he might react irrationally.

But hiding the truth wasn’t a solution either. He had the right to know. She was already “tainted,” and He Chuan was so good to her; she shouldn’t deceive him.

Yet, she lacked the courage to bring it up.

She hated Tang Que—hated him for not liking her, for rejecting her, yet still tormenting her, betraying her trust, and shaming her.

Lost in thought, Cheng Hui fell asleep, unaware that shortly after, Mrs. Cheng came to her room, her expression filled with concern and tenderness, though Cheng Hui couldn’t see.

Mrs. Cheng tucked her in, lingered a moment, then left, turning off the light and closing the door behind her.

After all, Cheng Hui was her biological daughter. Mrs. Cheng could never be truly heartless enough to imprison her at home.

But the matter had to be dealt with. Mrs. Cheng returned to the study and took out He Chuan’s phone number, dialing it swiftly.

He answered soon after.

Mrs. Cheng got straight to the point. “He Chuan, I’m Cheng Hui’s mother. When are you free? Let’s arrange a meeting.”

This was also what He Chuan wanted. He replied, “I’m free anytime.”

“Then as soon as possible. Tomorrow.”

“Alright, Aunt Cheng.”

He still called her “Aunt Cheng,” showing his respect despite her having once tried to keep them apart.

Mrs. Cheng quickly sent him an address and confirmed the meeting time.

She sat in the study a while longer before retiring to her room.

---

Cheng Jiu returned late. Xin Gan was still in the living room waiting, but she had fallen asleep holding a pillow, unaware of when he came back. When she woke, she was lying in bed, the bathroom door closed, water running.

Cheng Jiu finished his shower and came out. Xin Gan looked at him in confusion. “Why did you come back so late today?”

He climbed into bed and embraced her naturally, kissing her lips before answering, “Had some business to take care of. Why did you fall asleep in the living room instead of coming to bed?”

Xin Gan wrapped her arms around his shoulders, afraid of falling backward. “I was waiting for you.”

“It’s getting cold soon. Next time, just go straight to bed when you’re tired. Don’t sleep on the sofa; you might catch a cold.”

The kiss left Xin Gan dazed, a soft sound escaping her lips as she momentarily forgot what she wanted to ask.

“Was Cheng Hui good today? No fights with Mom?”

“Mm, no.”

“That’s good. Just hold on a little longer, and soon you’ll be back home.”

Xin Gan didn’t have time to ponder his words before his kiss stole her full attention.

…

He Chuan arrived early at the café where Mrs. Cheng had arranged to meet. Supported by a driver, Mrs. Cheng entered and sat down without rushing to state her purpose, instead asking about his family situation.

He Chuan did not hide anything, recounting how He Wei was still hospitalized and unable to manage affairs, while He Cheng and Mrs. He had taken over the company’s management temporarily. He Chuan himself lacked real power but had many loyal subordinates.

After he finished, Mrs. Cheng spoke calmly, “I never expected the He family to fall apart like this. He Cheng and Mrs. He are united against you, along with other relatives. It must be difficult to handle alone. Cheng Hui can’t help you, even though she’s a Cheng.”

He Chuan immediately understood her implication: she believed he was using Cheng Hui as a tool to gain the Cheng family’s support.

He frowned deeply. “Aunt Cheng, do you think I’m exploiting Cheng Hui?”

“If you weren’t, why deceive her at such a critical moment? She’s so young, and you, He Chuan, are a skilled liar who convinced her to do anything for you willingly.”

Mrs. Cheng’s gaze was full of anger and disdain. “He Chuan, our families have known each other for many years. Your mother even wanted to make Cheng Hui her goddaughter, but Cheng Hui refused, so I declined. Looking back, I should have accepted. Then you wouldn’t have taken advantage of her.”

He Chuan remained silent, unable to respond.

Mrs. Cheng took his silence as guilt, satisfied that she had struck a nerve.

A waitress approached, asking Mrs. Cheng what she wanted to drink.

“Just plain water, thank you.”

He Chuan spoke earnestly, facing Cheng Hui’s mother. “Aunt Cheng, I’m not the person you think. I’m not exploiting Cheng Hui or seeking the Cheng family’s help. I will handle the He family’s affairs and keep Cheng Hui out of it.”

“Do you expect me to believe you? He Chuan, before our families fall out completely, some things you must stop. Cheng Hui is still in school—only nineteen and a freshman. Even without the He family troubles, you two are incompatible. I won’t agree, nor will the Cheng family. She should find someone her own age, not you.”

Mrs. Cheng’s tone was resolute. She had called this meeting to make him see the gulf between him and Cheng Hui, and the firm stance of herself and the Cheng family.

“If you still care about our families’ relationship, I hope you’ll weigh the consequences and stop pursuing Cheng Hui. She’s young and naive. She’s already been hurt once. I won’t let you hurt her again. She’s my daughter, the daughter of Xu Manqing, and not someone to be taken advantage of.”

He Chuan was speechless.

“No need to say more. Any explanation is just a cover-up. If you have any conscience, you should let Cheng Hui go. She has a bright future—not to be dragged down by someone like you.”

He clenched his jaw, trying to smile but failing. He had never been so looked down upon before. But facing Cheng Hui’s mother, he dared not use his usual tactics. He respected her as an elder and cared for Cheng Hui and Cheng Jiu.

“I’ve said all I need to say. If you stubbornly keep chasing Cheng Hui, I’ll send her far away where you’ll never find her. I’ll have her go abroad and never return.”

…

The conversation ended bitterly. No matter how much He Chuan explained, Mrs. Cheng refused to listen. She was convinced he was deceiving Cheng Hui, who was too innocent to resist his lies. Mrs. Cheng would never allow Cheng Hui to be hurt again.

She had already decided—no matter what, Cheng Hui would go abroad. For at least three to five years, she wouldn’t be allowed back.

If He Chuan refused to give up, Mrs. Cheng would ensure Cheng Hui emigrated.

In truth, Mrs. Cheng was unaware of the He family’s internal affairs. He Chuan had no intention of involving the Cheng family. Cheng Jiu had not helped; instead, he partnered with Song Chen to start a new company from scratch. The He family’s company, founded by He Wei, was embroiled in complex interests. He Chuan had wanted to clean house for a long time but was blocked by He Wei. This time was an opportunity, so he handed control temporarily to Mrs. He and He Cheng.

After returning home, Mrs. Cheng called Cheng Hui downstairs. Xin Gan stood nearby, unaware of what had transpired.

Reluctantly, Cheng Hui approached her mother. “What is it?”

Mrs. Cheng’s anger flared. “I met with He Chuan today.”

“...And?”

Cheng Hui forced calm. “What did you say to him?”

Mrs. Cheng said bluntly, “He told me he won’t come looking for you anymore. Don’t hold out any hope.”

Cheng Hui laughed bitterly. “You told him what to say, didn’t you?”

Xin Gan, overhearing their conversation, feared they would clash and tried to intervene. She pulled Cheng Hui aside and said, “Mom, maybe there’s a misunderstanding. From what I know, He Chuan isn’t like that…”

“Xin Gan, this doesn’t concern you. Stay out of it. Go to your room,” Mrs. Cheng ordered firmly.

Cheng Hui, furious and stubborn, said, “Xin Xin, go to your room. This is between me and her.”

The mother and daughter were on the verge of an explosive argument. Cheng Hui’s eyes were bloodshot, lips pale but biting down hard. She stared at her mother and said deliberately, “Mom, I’m not a child anymore. Don’t try to fool me. In my eyes, He Chuan wouldn’t do that.”

Mrs. Cheng laughed coldly. “Cheng Hui, you’re so young. How many men have you known? In the end, you’re the one being deceived. I’m already letting you off easy by not saying you bring shame to the Cheng family. You’re out here flirting and now want to tie yourself to He Chuan? Do you know how many women he’s been with? You know nothing. You’re spoiled rotten, always expecting everything to be handed to you. What skills do you have besides being used by men?”

Her words shocked not only Cheng Hui but Xin Gan as well. This was no joke; Mrs. Cheng was pouring salt into her daughter’s wounds.

Xin Gan grabbed Cheng Hui’s hand. “Mom, that’s too harsh. Cheng Hui, go upstairs first. Wait for your brother to come back and then talk.”

Xin Gan’s tone grew firm. But Cheng Hui clenched her teeth, refusing to go. She shook off Xin Gan’s hand. Her last shred of dignity was trampled under her mother’s words. Could her own mother really see her this way?

What mother would speak to her daughter like this?

Heartbroken and angry, tears streaming, Cheng Hui said, “Xin Xin, don’t stop her. I want to know—what am I really like in her eyes?”

Mrs. Cheng’s chest tightened painfully but she kept going. “Cheng Hui, if you weren’t my daughter, you wouldn’t dare talk back like this. I’m telling you, He Chuan made it clear. If you insist on seeing him, I’ll have your father send you abroad. You’ll never come back!”

…

Cheng Jiu received a message from Xin Gan informing him of the latest family conflict. He hurried home by car. The house was in chaos. Cheng Hui crouched beside the sofa, her sobs stifled but heavy. Xin Gan felt sorry and gently stroked her hair. “Don’t cry. Your brother’s coming soon. Cheng Hui, don’t cry…”

“Is she really my mother? Saying those things to me… Am I really her daughter?”

Xin Gan comforted, “She’s just angry and speaking without thinking. When people are angry, they lose reason… Cheng Hui, don’t take it to heart…”

Cheng Jiu pushed open the door. Seeing him, Cheng Hui immediately threw herself into his arms and cried harder.

He stroked her hair. “Where’s Mom?”

“Upstairs resting. She just took her medicine.” Xin Gan explained that the confrontation had been so intense Mrs. Cheng’s blood pressure spiked. Xin Gan called the maid to escort her upstairs.

Cheng Hui was utterly exhausted from crying, her face streaked with tears, eyes red and swollen.

“Brother, Mom’s being unreasonable. She wants to send me abroad and says I can’t come back. What should I do? Help me… I don’t want to go abroad… If I go, I might never come back…”

Mrs. Cheng was serious; this was no empty threat.

Since she had brought it up, she obviously intended to follow through. Cheng Hui knew all too well. First Tang Que, now He Chuan. She had no freedom to choose.

Cheng Jiu’s expression darkened. He hadn’t realized things had gotten this serious. “I’ll go upstairs to check. You go to your room and rest. Don’t cry. Crying won’t solve anything.”

But apart from crying, Cheng Hui felt powerless.

She had no standing in the house. No say.

Mrs. Cheng was on the phone with Mr. Cheng in their room. “I’m sending Cheng Hui abroad. She must go.”

Mr. Cheng asked, “Why so suddenly? Has she agreed?”

“No matter if she agrees or not, she’s going. Otherwise, she’ll disgrace the Cheng family.”

…

Before Cheng Jiu could knock, he heard Mrs. Cheng say she was sending Cheng Hui abroad. He rapped on the door and entered.

Mrs. Cheng had just hung up. Seeing him, she said bluntly, “Don’t defend her anymore. Sending her abroad is decided. No one can stop it. If you side with her, you’re asking me to die in front of you.”

Cheng Jiu’s frown deepened. “Mom, there’s no need for that…”

“Enough. Don’t say another word. I’m tired. I’ve already told your father. He’ll make the arrangements. You don’t have to worry about it.”