After Marrying the Officer Chapter 1288 - 1287: Rumors Spreading Everywhere
Previously on After Marrying the Officer...
In the distant Capital City, Xia Chuyi remained oblivious to the mission's dangers her husband was concealing from her.
Simultaneously, deep within the dense wilderness, Huo Shiqian was equally unaware that his wife in the Capital City was also shielding herself from the unfolding events around her.
Several days passed, and life continued in the Capital City.
Just as Ou Jun was nearing a breakthrough in locating Xia Lianlian, having gathered crucial clues.
Without warning, whispers and rumors about Xia Chuyi began to circulate.
These malicious claims alleged that Xia Chuyi, during her time in the countryside, had engaged in improper conduct and consorted with unsavory individuals.
The gossip further asserted that Xia Chuyi, lacking a moral compass, had callously abandoned and neglected the foster mother who had raised her for two decades in the village, engaging in numerous inappropriate actions.
Accusations surfaced regarding sending her "cousin" to prison — specifically, the incident where Xia Chengzu was implicated in murder.
Claims of using influence to oppress family members — Xia Chuyi apparently forced members of the Xia Family to witness certain events.
The narrative also included framing innocent female students and extorting them — referencing the event where Xia Chuyi's notice was allegedly stolen, demanding a thousand yuan in compensation.
Furthermore, even Xia Chuyi and Huo Shiqian became the subject of scandalous rumors, suggesting Xia Chuyi had initially seduced Huo Shiqian.
It was said that an illicit relationship had transpired between Xia Chuyi and Huo Shiqian during their stay at the guesthouse.
Consequently, these rumors implied that Huo Shiqian ended up with Xia Chuyi due to these circumstances.
In essence, the fabricated stories spread like wildfire, rapidly engulfing the community.
The citizens of the Capital City reacted with heightened sensitivity to these defamatory rumors.
The sudden eruption of these whispers... could it signify an intentional targeting of the Ou Family and the Huo Family?
But who would possess such audacity to confront these two prominent families so directly?
Upon hearing these damaging rumors, Ou ZhenTing was consumed by fury.
"Who in their right mind, who is responsible for spreading such vile falsehoods?" Ou ZhenTing slammed his fist on the table in his anger. "Hmph, do people assume Ou ZhenTing has become frail and senile just because I spent a few extra days at home with my grandson?"
"Boss, you will investigate this matter with utmost diligence. When the truth is brought to light, I will personally see who dares to betray my daughter from the shadows!" Ou ZhenTing declared with righteous anger.
"Understood," Ou Jun replied, his lips pressed tightly, also seething with indignation. "I will absolutely uncover the truth."
In contrast, Xia Chuyi maintained a remarkable composure, offering words of reassurance to her father and brother. "Dad, brother, please try not to be so distressed."
"These are all matters originating from Ling County," Xia Chuyi explained. "Those who are circulating these issues are likely connected to individuals from that region..."
Hearing this, Ou Jun's eyes lit up with realization. "Xia Lianlian?"
"Xia Lianlian?" Upon hearing his son's suggestion, Ou ZhenTing immediately inquired, "Boss, what is this about? Tell me."
Prompted by Ou ZhenTing's question, Ou Jun proceeded to recount the preceding events to his father in detail.
"So, you're suggesting... that it's Xia Lianlian who orchestrated the spread of these rumors within the Capital City?" Ou ZhenTing asked, his brows knitting together in concern.
"Mm, that is highly probable." Xia Chuyi confirmed, nodding in agreement. "If someone hadn't personally experienced the events in Ling County, they wouldn't possess such intimate knowledge."
Moreover, the individual spreading such damaging information would undoubtedly harbor a deep-seated grudge against Xia Chuyi.
And Xia Lianlian perfectly fit both of these crucial criteria.
However...
"Dad, brother," Xia Chuyi continued, her voice thoughtful, "although I strongly suspect Xia Lianlian's involvement in these matters, but..."
"Xia Lianlian alone would not possess the means to disseminate these rumors so widely," Xia Chuyi elaborated. "Therefore, there must be influential figures operating behind her. "
"After all, considering the standing of our two families, and my own current circumstances... even if some rumors were to surface..."
